Laminaria Digitata Extract
Brown algae extract rich in alginates, iodine and minerals. In cosmetics it works as a humectant and conditioning ingredient.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Small in vitro studies show antioxidant potential of brown algae polyphenols. Few clinical RCTs exist for finished products.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Oily, Dry, Combination, Normal
About this ingredient
Laminaria Digitata Extract is derived from a brown algae growing on rocky Atlantic shores. Contains alginates (polysaccharides), fucoidan, iodine, minerals (magnesium, potassium), mannitol. Mechanism. Alginates are hydrophilic polysaccharides that retain water in the stratum corneum. Fucoidan in vitro suppresses metalloproteinases (MMP-1, MMP-9) and shows anti-inflammatory action (Wang 2019). On skin works as humectant and film-former. Where applied. Masks, creams, modeling gels (extract 0.5–5%), seaweed-based spa procedures. Brands include Phytomer, Algologie, Thalgo. In Spanish pharmacies found in talasoterapia lines from Vichy and La Roche-Posay. Evidence base. Topical human RCTs are few; main data come from spa medicine and in vitro antioxidant work. Dermatology guidelines do not mention. Safety. CIR confirmed safety at cosmetic concentrations. Iodine content in the extract is low and produces no systemic effect with topical use. Pregnancy – safe topically; oral algae extracts in pregnancy are contraindicated due to variable iodine content.
Frequently asked questions
Is Laminaria Digitata Extract safe during pregnancy?
Laminaria Digitata Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Laminaria Digitata Extract for?
Laminaria Digitata Extract suits: oily, dry, combination, normal.
What is Laminaria Digitata Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Brown algae extract rich in alginates, iodine and minerals.
What's the INCI name for Laminaria Digitata Extract?
The INCI name is Laminaria Digitata Extract. It may also appear as: Laminaria Digitata.
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