Rich in proteins, amino acids, minerals and vitamins, the oyster is a great ally in the fight against signs of ageing, and in improving the radiance and firmness of the skin.
Although the appearance and texture of oysters may put some off, for others its iodine taste is a must for celebrating special moments or a meal by the sea.
Still, who would have thought it would one day end up in the vast domain of cosmetics? Although still considered an unusual ingredient in the beauty world, the oyster just might end up being the star of your beauty regime.
More and more brands are using every part of the oyster, from the flesh to the shell, capitalising on its anti-ageing, purifying, remineralising, and cleansing qualities.
By itself, the oyster can play a role in a number of functions in your bathroom, proving to be indispensable for skin, hair, and even dental health.
Formulas and extracts
French natural cosmetics brand Perlucine is among those who have been embracing the virtues of the mollusk, more precisely the shell of the white oyster.
Harvested by hand on the beaches of Brittany, the shells are carefully cleaned before being made into powder to enrich the formulas of different products.
From facial cleansing powder to body scrubs, artisanal soaps, shampoo powder, and even powdered toothpaste, these items offer many benefits for mattifying skin, bringing volume and shine to hair, getting rid of dead skin cells and imperfections, and even giving a touch of radiance to the dullest of complexions.
Meanwhile, French brand Edulis recently released a range of cosmetics formulated with the extracts of patented oyster oils encapsulated in clay, taking full advantage of the mollusk’s unique properties.
This innovative line is more interested in the European flat oyster from the Arcachon Basin, called “Ostrea Edulis”.
The brand claims to have extracted natural active elements that are “nourishing and stimulating, for a firmer fresher feel and an immediate tightening effect that’s safe for skin”.
Upcycling
Not content with only attracting attention in the cosmetics industry, oysters can also be useful in the home and garden. Through upcycling, they can be used as a natural fertiliser, and even descaling material for household appliances simply by placing an oyster shell in, for example, a kettle, and letting it boil.
As the shells are composed primarily of calcium carbonate (aka chalk), which can help buffer soil acidity and provide plants and microbes with vital calcium, they are perfect for gardening. Plus, the texture of the shell helps prevent soil compaction, which can improve aeration.
Oyster shells can be used in compost, as a soil additive, or as mulch; and crushing them up will improve their effectiveness.
Elsewhere, the shells can be used for landscaping, providing texture to paths and walkways, or even as decorations in the home… so much potential in one little sea creature!