Health-conscious people have been adding seaweed to their smoothies for decades, but it’s also becoming increasingly popular as a skin care ingredient. Still, given the fact that a new “skin care savior” appears every time you blink, it’s hard not to be a little wary of seaweed’s purported skin benefits.
We spoke to dermatologist Karen Hammerman, M.D., to find out more about this buzzy marine ingredient and whether it lives up to the hype. So what’s the hype? Many of the ingredient’s proponents say it’s packed with antioxidants that help fight signs of aging. The National Eczema Association also reports that seaweed has antifungal and antiviral properties and helps reduce inflammation.
Meet Our Experts
Karen Hammerman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Garden City, New York.
Read our expert-approved guide to seaweed, its skin care benefits, and how to incorporate it into your daily routine.
What is Sea Moss?
Sea moss, also known as Irish moss, is a vitamin- and mineral-rich algae native to the Atlantic coasts of North America and Europe. It can be ingested or applied topically. When it comes to ingestion, sea moss gel is used in traditional drinks and foods in the Caribbean and Ireland. Historically, it has been used as a treatment for everything from coughs to low libido. It is also a popular skin care ingredient due to its myriad benefits (more on that below).
Sea moss benefits for skin
- Reduces inflammation: Seaweed is rich in minerals and vitamins and can help relieve inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
- Improves acne-prone and oily skin: “Due to its high sulfur content, seaweed has antibacterial, antiviral and antimicrobial properties and is thought to help balance the skin’s microbiome,” says Dr. Hammerman. “The high sulfur content also reduces excess sebum production on the skin. Combined with its antibacterial effects against acne bacteria, [which causes acne]It may help reduce the severity of acne in people who suffer from it.”
- Minimize signs of aging: Seaweed’s moisturizing properties also help with anti-ageing properties and winter dryness: “Seaweed contains essential elements for the human body, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin A and vitamin K, which can help reduce wrinkles, hydrate the skin and protect against environmental factors,” adds Dr Hammerman.
Target Audience
It’s always safest to do a patch test or consult with a dermatologist before trying any new products, but Dr. Hammerman says that people with sensitive skin may experience irritation from seaweed, especially if you’re trying a homemade product like a mask.
How to use
Homemade remedies are all about saving time and effort. It’s best to try seaweed as a pre-made formula made by a professional, because the ingredients are of high quality. “Seaweed can accumulate toxic heavy metals, including cadmium, mercury, lead, and arsenic, so sourcing the ingredients is important,” says Dr. Hammerman.
It’s also important to keep in mind that seeing “organic” on a label doesn’t necessarily mean that a product is better than other options. “Many sea moss products are labeled as organic, but the term is used very loosely in skin care because the FDA hasn’t defined it in relation to topical products,” Dr. Hammerman explains. “It’s unclear whether products containing organic sea moss extract are more effective or safer than products that aren’t labeled organic.”
Dermatologists say that rather than using pure seaweed, you should look for well-formulated products that combine it with other ingredients for maximum effectiveness and optimal results.
Sea Moss Skin Care Products
Lush Breath of Fresh Air Toner Water
Courtesy of Rush
This refreshing pick-me-up can be used as a day mist or toner to soothe and purify. In addition to sea moss, Lush has included other ocean-inspired ingredients including seawater, aloe vera gel and rose absolute. This toner is perfect for those with dry or combination skin thanks to its moisturising properties.
Sonia Dakar Omega Polish & Activator Duo
Courtesy of Sonia Dakar
Sonia Dakar’s two-step treatment covers both physical and chemical exfoliation in any routine. When mixed with a gel, the polish’s finely ground flax, oats, rice, and other grains transform into a gentle paste that doubles as a mask and peel. If you want to keep your routine simple, this two-step combo probably isn’t for you.
Tata Harper Creme Rich
Courtesy of Tata Harper
This rich cream is perfect for your winter nighttime skincare routine. It’s extremely hydrating and helps stimulate the skin’s own production of moisture, plus it helps combat visible signs of aging.
Ocea Red Algae Mask
Courtesy of Oceana
Red algae (a source of seaweed) is the star of Osea’s multitasking face mask, which draws out excess oil and impurities from the skin while strengthening the skin’s barrier to prevent dryness. The formula is so well-balanced that it’s suitable for all skin types, meaning it can be used by those with acne-prone, combination, normal, and oily skin.
Serumkind Iceland Moss Drops
Courtesy of Serumkind
Also known as Iceland Moss, this seaweed-infused serum hydrates and soothes dry, irritated skin. Add it to your skincare routine for extra hydration or add a few drops to your favorite moisturizer for an extra hydrating boost.
