Meet the green superfood that packs a punch. 

It's completely natural. It's vegan. It's naturally high in protein, nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants. It's rich in chlorophyll (giving it its famous green glow). It's incredible for your health and skin. What is this wonder ingredient?

It's chlorella.

A freshwater algae, chlorella boasts a plethora of benefits for mind, body, spirit, soul, and skin. As an esthetician, I have a particular love for its detoxifying properties. But that's only the beginning.

Not only can chlorella boost immunity and brain power, but it's known to lower blood pressure and blood sugar while fighting oxidative stress (a contributor to aging). It's rich in fiber, iron, and prebiotics — essential for a healthy gut-to-skin connection. It has also been known to protect the eyes from the harmful effects of blue light, improve cholesterol, and help to decrease the severity of menstrual cramps. Talk about superfood.

But I haven't even told you what it can do for your skin yet.

Chlorella is touted for its ability to fight aging, acne (particularly cystic acne), sun damage, and inflammation. When applied topically, it encourages collagen production, calms redness and irritation, and works to improve overall skin tone. Plus, it's suitable for all skin types and conditions—making it an easy addition to any universal skincare routine. More often than not, you can find it in cleansers and masks.

If you prefer to ingest it, you can find chlorella in dark, leafy greens, coconut water, wild caught salmon, avocado, raw cacao, and matcha green tea. I'm partial to sipping it in am AM superfood smoothie with my Make Me Whole superfood powder.

The possibilities are practically endless when it comes to incorporating chlorella into your lifestyle.