68 MARINE INGREDIENTS
Antioxidant protection: shielding skin from oxidative stress Oxidative stress is a key contributor to skin ageing and pigmentation disorders. Exposure to UV radiation, pollution, and other environmental aggressors generates free radicals, which damage cellular structures and potentially deregulated melanin production. Seaweed extracts are rich in antioxidants
such as flavonoids, carotenoids, and phlorotannins. These compounds effectively neutralize free radicals, preventing oxidative damage to skin cells and reducing the risk of pigmentation irregularities. The antioxidant capacity of seaweed-derived ingredients has been shown to be comparable to well- established actives like vitamin C and ferulic acid. Additionally, antioxidants from marine
sources offer superior stability compared to some plant-derived counterparts, ensuring long-lasting protective effects in skin care formulations.
Barrier function and hydration: strengthening skin resilience A healthy skin barrier is essential for preventing moisture loss and maintaining overall skin health. Many seaweed-derived polysaccharides function as natural humectants, attracting and retaining moisture to keep the skin hydrated. Marine bioactives such as fucoidans and
alginates form a protective film on the skin, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and enhancing resilience against external aggressors. This hydrating and barrier- strengthening effect is particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or compromised skin, as well as those undergoing hyperpigmentation treatments that may cause temporary irritation.
Photoprotection and stability: enhancing sun defence One of the unique advantages of seaweed extracts is their photoprotective properties. Unlike some synthetic brightening agents that degrade upon UV exposure, certain marine bioactives remain stable under sunlight, ensuring sustained efficacy throughout the day. Moreover, some seaweed compounds have
demonstrated UVA-absorbing capabilities, making them valuable in sun protection formulations. By acting as natural UVA boosters, they enhance the photoprotective properties of sunscreen products and help mitigate sun- induced pigmentation issues.
Scientific validation and clinical evidence The efficacy of seaweed-based ingredients in dark spot treatment has been extensively studied through laboratory and clinical trials. One of the most compelling findings comes from in vitro studies comparing the tyrosinase- inhibiting activity of marine extracts and some of the market-standard extracts. The results from the IC50 indicate that Ascophyllum nodosum extracts outperform ascorbic acid, one of the most commonly used synthetic brightening agents, by being approximately 12% more effective. Additionally, the Ascophyllum nodosum
PERSONAL CARE October 2025 Figure 3: Results after two months of treatment with InAlgae LIT
extract exhibits tyrosinase inhibition comparable to kojic acid, a widely used natural anti-pigmenting agent. However, unlike kojic acid, this extract is photostable, making it a safer option for sensitive skin and even functioning as a UVA booster in formulations. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) analyses further confirmed the production of this seaweed extract has a significantly lower environmental impact than kojic acid, reinforcing its sustainability advantages.1 Clinical trials also support the efficacy of
seaweed-derived ingredients in real-world applications. In in vivo tests conducted with volunteers, the Ascophyllum nodosum ingredient achieved 100% approval. Among participants with mild to moderate
hyperpigmentation, 90% reported noticeable improvements in skin tone uniformity after eight weeks of continuous use. Measurements of melanin index and erythema reduction confirmed significant decreases in dark spot intensity and overall skin redness. Additionally, all study participants reported
increased skin hydration and comfort, highlighting the multifunctional benefits of this seaweed ingredient. These results reinforce the ingredient’s ability to regulate melanogenesis, control melanin production, and neutralize free radicals involved in inflammation. Its soothing action is particularly beneficial for sensitive and redness-prone skin, making it a versatile active for various cosmetic formulations. Approximately 90% of volunteers also noted
improvements in skin texture and elasticity. Additional in vivo studies are underway to further validate these findings.
Sustainability benefits of seaweed cultivation and extraction One of the most compelling aspects of Ascophyllum nodosum extract is its sustainable production process. Unlike many traditional cosmetic ingredients that rely on resource- intensive farming or synthetic manufacturing, seaweed cultivation and harvesting have a minimal environmental footprint.
Seaweed can be responsibly harvested from
natural ecosystems without disrupting marine biodiversity. Alternatively, it can be cultivated in aquaculture systems that require no freshwater, fertilizers, or arable land, making it a highly sustainable practice that does not compete with food production. LCA analyses comparing the environmental
impact of seaweed extract production to that of conventional brightening agents reveal a significantly lower carbon footprint. Unlike kojic acid synthesis, which involves energy-intensive chemical processes, extracting bioactives from seaweed generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions and minimal waste. Additionally, advancements in green extraction techniques, have further enhanced the sustainability profile of seaweed-based ingredients.
Biorefinery methodology: maximizing seaweed utilization Sustainability in the production cycle of seaweed-derived ingredients goes beyond cultivation and extraction. The biorefinery approach ensures the full valorisation of seaweed biomass, significantly reducing waste and utilizing every part of the seaweed for various applications, reinforcing the principles of a circular economy. Instead of focusing solely on the extraction
of bioactive compounds, this methodology integrates residual biomass into other industrial processes, promoting its reuse in multiple sectors. One notable example is the conversion of seaweed byproducts into biofertilizers or biostimulants, supporting more sustainable agricultural practices and closing the production loop through total resource optimization. This model not only minimizes raw material
waste but also enhances production efficiency while reducing environmental impact. Advanced extraction techniques are designed to preserve the integrity of active compounds while maximizing bioactive yield. The result is a high- performance cosmetic ingredient with a low environmental footprint, offering proven efficacy and a significantly smaller carbon impact
www.personalcaremagazine.com 0 MONTHS 2 MONTHS WITH INALGAE LT
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