Sugar Kelp or Laminaria saccharina extract, a form of sea algae used in skin care, reduces oil production and calms skin. Use this article to learn more about Sugar Kelp or Laminaria saccharina.
What is Sugar Kelp?
Brown algae belonging to the family Laminariaceae and class Phaeophyceae go by the name Saccharina latissima, popularly known as sugar kelp. Due to its shape, it is also known as the sea belt and the Devil’s apron. Although it is absent from the Bay of Biscay, it is widespread along the British Isles’ coasts. It is found in the northeast Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, and the Barents Sea south of Galicia in Spain. The species inhabits protected rocky seafloors.
How is it beneficial for the skin?
Laminaria saccharina extract is a hydrating and anti-inflammatory ingredient in skin care products. It is as a result of its moisturising and calming qualities. Because the extract contains alginates, it works very well as a moisturiser. These polysaccharides, known as alginates, are hydrophilic (water-loving) and bind water to form a barrier on the skin’s surface.
Another polysaccharide identified in Laminaria saccharina extract is laminarin. It possesses antibacterial and antiviral effects in addition to helping to balance oil production and clear pores, which are all regarded to be beneficial for the skin. Laminaria saccharina extract is perfect for people with acne-prone skin because of these qualities.