Ingredients Glossary / S

Seaweed

Marine extracts rich in minerals, amino acids and water-binding sugars that help hydrate, soften and revitalise the look of dry, tired skin.

seaweed, algae, algae extract, red algae, microalgae, kelp, Palmaria palmata extract, Laminaria digitata (kelp) extract, Fucus vesiculosus extract, Chondrus crispus (seaweed) extract, Chlorella vulgaris extract, spirulina

Dry & dehydrated skin · Dull skin · Ageing skin

    What it does

    Rich in minerals, amino acids and moisture-binding sugars, seaweed and algae extracts help hydrate, nourish and revitalise the look of tired and ageing skin. Able to smooth and soften skin, they can help improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles. They are used in serums, masks, eye creams and rich moisturisers, often alongside other antioxidants.

    How it works

    Seaweeds and microalgae contain polysaccharides (such as alginates and carrageenan), minerals, amino acids and antioxidant pigments, including carotenoids. Seaweed's moisturising and smoothing properties come mainly from these polysaccharides, which hold water and form a light, flexible film on the skin's surface, while the pigments help defend against free radicals.

    MG says

    Red algae (Palmaria palmata) is one of the brightening agents in Biologique Recherche's Lotion P50 PIGM 400, designed for dull skin with uneven pigmentation. The microalga Haematococcus pluvialis is also the usual source of astaxanthin, one of the strongest antioxidants in skincare. Seaweed is suitable for use on all skin types, but especially great for dry skin due to its hydrating, nourishing and conditioning properties.

    Cautions

    Seaweed and algae extracts are generally well tolerated by all skin types; as with any botanical, patch test first if your skin is reactive. Lotion P50 PIGM 400 also contains exfoliating acids, so wear SPF daily when using it.

    Regional notes