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Ocean Glow Sea Moss & Skincare: Evidence-Backed Benefits
Sea moss (Chondrus crispus) is often called "Irish Moss," but it is more than just a trendy ingredient—it is a rich source of bioactive compounds that support skin health (1). Modern cosmeceuticals extract its polysaccharides, amino acids, and lipids to formulate products that hydrate, soothe, and protect the skin.
At Ocean Glow, we move beyond the hype. Below, we dive into peer-reviewed evidence on how sea moss works on the cellular level to protect your skin barrier.
Hydration: The "Film-Forming" Effect
One of the most compelling reasons to include sea moss in your routine is its moisture-boosting polysaccharides. Unlike standard moisturizers that simply sit on the surface, the carrageenan in sea moss binds water to create a flexible, breathable film that slows transepidermal water loss (TEWL) (2).
The Data: Studies indicate that low-molecular-weight polysaccharides from algae can actually outperform hyaluronic acid, glycerol, and urea in moisture retention tests (3). This means an Ocean Glow gel provides hydration that lasts through hot, dry environments where other serums fail.
Micro-Science: Blocking the "Collagen Eaters"
Most anti-aging products promise to add collagen. Sea moss does something smarter: it stops your body from destroying the collagen it already has.
When your skin is exposed to UV light, it produces destructive enzymes called MMPs (Matrix Metalloproteinases). Think of MMPs as "Pac-Man" enzymes that eat away at your collagen and elastin, causing wrinkles (4).
The Breakthrough: Independent studies on keratinocytes found that pre-treatment with sea moss carrageenans significantly reduced the levels of MMPs following UV exposure (5). By blocking these enzymes, sea moss preserves your skin's structural matrix, keeping it plump and youthful.
MAAs: Nature's UV Shield
Did you know sea moss produces its own sunscreen? To survive in shallow tidal waters, sea moss synthesizes Mycosporine-like Amino Acids (MAAs)—small molecules like palythine and shinorine that absorb UV light (6).
These MAAs are photo-stable, meaning they don't break down in the sun like some synthetic chemicals (7). They offer a natural layer of photoprotection that works in tandem with your daily SPF to prevent sun spots and aging.
Soothing Inflammation: Acne & Eczema
Inflammation and a broken barrier are the root causes of acne, eczema, and dermatitis. Sea moss lipids (including arachidonic acid and EPA) replenish the stratum corneum (the outer skin layer) to restore balance (8).
Furthermore, carrageenan oligosaccharides have been shown to suppress inflammatory markers (like TNF-α and IL-6) (9). This makes our sea moss skincare particularly effective for calming the red, angry irritation associated with breakouts and flare-ups.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "I have sensitive, eczema-prone skin and usually avoid scented soaps. The Ocean Glow Sea Moss Soap is the only thing that calms my flare-ups without drying me out. It's a lifesaver."
— Allie S., Verified Buyer
Experience the Science of Sea Moss
Don't just moisturize—protect, repair, and soothe with the power of the ocean. Our skincare line is formulated with wildcrafted Chondrus crispus to deliver these bioactive benefits directly to your epidermis.
Scientific References
- Lomartire, S., et al. (2021). "An Overview to the Health Benefits of Seaweeds Consumption." Marine Drugs.
- MDPI (2022). "Revealing the Potential Use of Macro and Microalgae Compounds in Skin Barrier Repair."
- Malaysian Journal of Science. "Bioactive properties of seaweed polysaccharides."
- Perez, M.J., et al. (2016). "Skin Anti-Aging Potential of Red Algae." Cosmetics.
- PMC (2021). "Anti-Photoaging and Potential Skin Health Benefits of Seaweeds." PMC8004118.
- De Jesus Raposo, M.F., et al. (2013). "Emerging Marine-Derived Pigments: Application and Health Benefits."
- PMC (2024). "An Update on the Chemical Constituents... of Chondrus crispus." PMC10817618.
- Liu, J., et al. (2015). "Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial Activities of Seaweeds."
- MDPI (2022). "Carrageenan-Based Compounds as Wound Healing Materials."
