Saaren Taika is launching a line of cosmetics crafted from bladderwrack harvested directly from the Baltic Sea. Known as the “pristine treasure of the Baltic,” this bladderwrack is collected after storms have naturally detached it from its hold on the rocky coastlines. It is used in a range of hair and skincare products, embodying the essence of nature’s purity.
Operating out of Salo, Finland, the Saaren Taika brand is reportedly the only Finnish company of its size that utilizes bladderwrack collected straight from the Baltic Sea in its formulations. The idea behind this innovative approach came from Johanna Amnelin, the founder of Saaren Taika.
The process begins by finely grinding the dried bladderwrack and blending it with oil. This initiates an extraction process that releases the nutrient-rich components of the bladderwrack into the oil, creating an active, plant-based ingredient for a variety of cosmetic products.
“Bladderwrack is responsibly harvested with a deep respect for nature”
According to Veera Amnelin-Kylämäki, CEO of Saaren Taika, the collection of bladderwrack is carried out responsibly. Only bladderwrack that has naturally detached during storms is gathered, ensuring that the marine ecosystem remains unharmed. This ecological harvesting process guarantees that the use of bladderwrack in cosmetics is environmentally friendly and sustainable. Saaren Taika even has permission from the local fishing community to collect the naturally shed bladderwrack.
An Idea Born from a Seaside Retreat
Sometimes, inspiration strikes in the most unexpected places. In the case of bladderwrack, it all started at a family cottage located near the Selkämeri National Park, right next to a Natura 2000 protected area—surrounded by clear waters and nearly open sea. The strong winds and storms frequently strip the seabed of its vegetation, with some of it eventually washing up on the shore. Rather than letting these nutrient-rich plants drift away, Johanna Amnelin decided to explore how their valuable nutrients could be harnessed for skincare. “We only collect bladderwrack that has already detached naturally,” explains Veera Amnelin-Kylämäki.
What is Bladderwrack? – “It Helps Preserve Youthful Skin”
Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) is a brown seaweed that typically grows between 20 and 50 centimeters in length. It has a leathery, branched structure with swollen air bladders, which is how it got its name. Rich in vitamins and minerals, bladderwrack was historically used in baking during times of scarcity, and it is completely non-toxic.
The benefits of bladderwrack are diverse:
- Maintaining Youthful Skin: It helps protect collagen, which promotes skin elasticity and firmness while reducing visible signs of aging.
- Soothing and Protecting the Skin: Its natural properties can help diminish skin irritation and support the wellbeing of sensitive or inflamed skin.
- Antioxidant Effects: Bladderwrack shields the skin from free radicals produced during metabolic reactions and from UV-induced damage, making it an excellent ingredient in moisturizers and post-sun skincare products.
- Hydration and Protection: It assists in maintaining the skin's moisture levels and enhances the skin’s protective barrier.
Experience the transformative power of nature with Saaren Taika, where Finnish natural cosmetics meet responsible harvesting and cutting-edge skincare science.
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