Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract

Type of kelp that helps soothe skin and offers hydration-enhancing properties

Can play a role in reinforcing skin’s barrier and warding off environmental stressors

Offers anti-aging benefits, partly due to antioxidant content

Researchers note that this ingredient is particularly useful for those prone to sensitive skin

Laminaria ochroleuca extract is the Latin name for a species of kelp, also sometimes referred to as brown seaweed or brown algae. Applied topically, it helps soothe skin and, like all forms of seaweed, Laminaria ochroleuca extract has some amount of moisture-binding properties.

Researchers note that this ingredient is particularly useful for those prone to sensitive skin. It can play a role in reinforcing skin’s barrier and thus, can be used to help ease the negative effects environmental aggressors have on skin. It is believed that Laminaria ochroleuca extract’s lipid content is partially responsible for this improvement. It’s also been shown to improve the content of skin’s surface lipids, which in turn builds a stronger barrier.

This extract offers antioxidant properties, which contribute to anti-aging benefits for skin. Primary antioxidants in this type of algae include zeaxanthin, β-carotene, chlorophyll, and several epicatechin compounds whish also play a role in reducing signs of sensitivity.

Laminaria ochroleuca extract was assessed for safety by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel in 2019. Their report surveyed 54 personal care products containing 0.000024-0.63% Laminaria ochroleuca extract, where it was determined to be “safe as used in cosmetics in the present practices of use.”

See: Algae, Algae Extract