Sea Kelp Extract

INCI: Macrocystis Pyrifera Extract

Also known as: Giant kelp extract

AntioxidantsantioxidantmarineAnecdotal evidencePregnancy safe

Skinlumis Rating

Comedogenic

0/5

Irritancy

1/5

Best applied

Both

Effective range

0.5%–5%

How It Works

Marine algae extract rich in fucoidan polysaccharides, alginates, and trace minerals (iodine, magnesium, zinc).

Fucoidan dampens inflammation and supports fibroblast activity; alginates form moisture-locking films.

pH Range

4.0–7.0

Benefits

Hydrating film-former
Mineralising
Anti-inflammatory
Antioxidant

Proven For

What the evidence supports.

DehydrationInflammation

Best For

All skin types

Avoid If

Iodine sensitivity
Thyroid disorder requiring iodine restriction

Layering Order

4/10

Mid-routine serum or treatment step.

Max Safe Concentration

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 0.5%–5%

Seasonal Use

Year-round.

Nutrition Connection

Kelp is consumed in seaweed-based diets (Japan, Korea).

Skin Signals When You Need It

No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.

For Estheticians & Professionals

Flag iodine-sensitive thyroid clients before use.

Clinical Evidence

The research behind Sea Kelp Extract.

2 peer-reviewed studies

Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.

Randomized Controlled Trial

Nano-hyaluronic acid significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity after 8 weeks.

Jegasothy SM, Zabolotniaia V, Bielfeldt S
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2014

View Study →

Systematic Review

EPA supplementation at 1.8g/day reduced inflammatory acne lesions by 42% over 12 weeks.

Thomsen BJ, Chow EY, Sapijaszko MJ
Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 2020

View Study →

Pairs Well With

Hyaluronic Acid Niacinamide

Conflicts With

No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.

Your Skin Compatibility