Skin Conditioning
APHANIZOMENON FLOSA-QUAE POWDER
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Klamath-lake blue-green algae — nutrient rich but carries real risk of cyanobacterial toxins unless certified toxin-free.
Aphanizomenon Flos-Aquae Powder is dried biomass of a cyanobacterium (blue-green alga) usually wild-harvested from Upper Klamath Lake, Oregon. The biomass is rich in phycocyanin, chlorophyll, amino acids, and polysaccharides, driving antioxidant and skin-conditioning claims. The cautionary issue is microcystin and nodularin hepatotoxins, and BMAA neurotoxin, which co-occurring toxic cyanobacteria can introduce into wild harvests. Regulatory bodies (Oregon DEQ, Health Canada) have flagged AFA dietary supplements for periodic microcystin failures. Cosmetic-grade AFA should carry toxin-free certification; without it, risk is material. Topical exposure is lower than oral but not irrelevant for leave-on use.
Skin benefits
- Antioxidant phycocyanin
- Amino-acid and peptide content
- Chlorophyll color
- Claimed barrier support
Known concerns
- Microcystin hepatotoxin contamination risk
- BMAA neurotoxin concerns
- Heavy-metal accumulation
- Requires stringent batch testing
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related skin conditionings
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.