Smorodina Alginate Face Masks

Alginate Face Mask History

Alginate facial masks have a long history dating back to the 19th century. This is when scientists discovered in the ash of another experiment that some marine plants contain alginic acid.

Alginic acid is found in kelp in concentrations ranging from 15% to 30%. It is a polyuronic acid chain that forms the algal fibers. Alginic acid, like other naturally occurring polysaccharides such as cellulose, pectins, and starch, has many useful properties. However, it is because of some unique attributes – such as swelling, viscosity and interactions with various structures – that marine polysaccharides are now widely used. It is natural and safe for humans!

The most convenient form of medication is a capsule containing alginic acid, which is widely used in big Pharma. Surprisingly, alginate is also widely used in dentistry. For example, sodium alginate is used to take dental impressions in the manufacture of dentures. It also disinfects the mucous membrane. These and many other alginate properties are successfully used in medicine and cosmetology.

Alginate facial masks (plasticizing masks or modeling masks as they are known in Korea) perfectly care for and restore any type of skin. They are also intended to prevent and correct skin flaws. The essence of the procedure using such a mask is that it hardens on the skin after application; it is removed in one layer, which precisely follows all the nuances of the face and skin relief.

Alginate face masks derive their name from alginic acid salts (alginates) and diatoms (diatomaceous earth) used in their manufacturing. These compose the basis of the mask, which has physical properties similar to agar or gelatin, in that it hardens into a dense elastic mass. Even without the addition of any other ingredients, the alginate face masks have a lifting (tightening), modeling and drainage effects, improving the flow of blood and lymph circulation. Some masks also promote the resorption of stagnant spots, such as those caused by acne.

Alginate (as they are also called - sculpting or peel-off) face masks contain additional beneficial ingredients that make them more specific in application: plant extracts, vitamins, and trace elements. Alginate masks are powders that are diluted with water or special solvents immediately before use to the consistency of thick sour cream and then applied to the face, neck, and décolleté. You can also apply the mask to the lips and even the eyelids where the masks can exert their profound effect. 

7 Types of Smorodina Alginate Face Masks

We have 7 types of alginate facial masks which were created specifically to address various areas of concern:

1. Smorodina Young Skin Alginate face mask improves skin tightness and rejuvenates the skin; 
2. Smorodina Even Tone Alginate face mask lightens the dark spots and acne scars and evens out the skin tone;
3. Smorodina Anti-Acne Alginate face mask diminishes blemishes, acne scars and corrects skin deformations;
4. Smorodina Pink Rose Alginate face mask allows you to get rid of dryness and restore the water-lipid balance;
5. Smorodina Lifting Alginate face mask gently models and lifts face contour;
6. Smorodina Detox Skin Alginate face mask removes toxins and awaken the skin; and
7. Smorodina Pearl Alginate face mask improves the texture and structure of your skin.

Smorodina Alginate Face Mask Application

• Combine 3 to 5 tea spoons of mask powder with 10 tea spoons of cold water.
• Mix water with powder and stir well until uniform consistency achieved (make sure there are no lumps).
• Apply even layer of paste to the face.
• Leave it on for 15-30 minutes until it fully hardens.
• When you are ready to remove the mask, wet the edges first.
• Enjoy the result!

You can watch a video of how to prepare Smorodina alginate facial masks here:

This article was written by Anastasia Vashchuk, an eco-cosmetologist and an expert of natural cosmetics based in Brooklyn, New York.