Kelp

Hailing from the nutrient-rich depths of the ocean, Kelp is a type of large brown seaweed that is a true superfood for the skin. More than just marine vegetation, this powerful botanical is packed with a dense concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In skincare, it functions primarily as a hydrating, soothing, and protective agent.

Natural Science

Kelp, including species like Macrocystis pyrifera, thrives in underwater forests, where it absorbs a potent blend of nutrients directly from the seawater. This natural bio-accumulation makes it incredibly rich in iodine, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron. It also contains a wealth of vitamins, including A, B1, B2, C, D, and E.

The unique cellular structure of kelp allows it to retain moisture efficiently, a property that translates beautifully into skincare. Its composition of essential fatty acids and polysaccharides helps to maintain the skin's natural barrier, preventing water loss and protecting it from environmental aggressors.

Benefits of Kelp in Skincare

So, is kelp good for skin? The answer is a resounding yes. The unique marine nutrients within kelp extract for skin provide a multi-faceted approach to skin health, delivering hydration, calming inflammation, and offering potent antioxidant defense. The kelp benefits for skin make it a prized ingredient in restorative formulations.

• Intense Hydration: Kelp is rich in polysaccharides like algin, which are excellent humectants. They draw moisture from the environment into the skin, providing deep, lasting hydration and leaving the complexion looking plump and dewy.
• Soothing & Anti-inflammatory: The natural minerals and vitamins in sea kelp for skin help to reduce redness and calm irritation. This makes it an ideal ingredient for sensitive, reactive, or post-procedure skin, helping to restore balance and comfort.
• Antioxidant Protection: Loaded with vitamins C and E, kelp helps to neutralize damaging free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution. This protective action helps to prevent premature aging, such as fine lines and loss of elasticity.

How Its Used in Nuebiome Products

At Nuebiome, we harness the restorative power of kelp for skin to create formulations that nourish and balance your skin's microbiome. This oceanic treasure is a key component in our advanced, science-backed products, including The Biotic Glow™ Ferment Essence.

Research

A 2019 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology investigated the anti-aging potential of ingredients from marine origins. Using quantitative proteomic analysis on ex vivo skin samples, the research demonstrated that a blend of marine ingredients could effectively stimulate proteins essential for skin structure and firmness. This finding supports the use of marine botanicals like kelp in skincare formulations designed to address the clinical signs of aging.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kelp

Does sea kelp lower estrogen?

When consumed orally, kelp's high iodine content may influence thyroid function and, consequently, hormone levels. However, when applied topically in skincare, there is no scientific evidence to suggest it systemically lowers estrogen or affects the body's hormonal balance.

Which is better for you, kelp or sea moss?

Both kelp and sea moss are fantastic for the skin, but they offer slightly different primary benefits. Kelp is a powerhouse of minerals and antioxidants, making it exceptional for soothing and protecting the skin. Sea moss is renowned for its high mucilage content, making it a superior hydrator. The "better" choice depends on your main skincare goal.

Is kelp worth it?

Absolutely. Given its incredibly dense nutrient profile, kelp is a highly effective and multi-functional skincare ingredient. It provides hydrating, soothing, and antioxidant benefits in one natural package, making it a valuable and worthwhile addition to any routine for promoting a healthy, resilient complexion.

Kelp References

Ginsenoside-Enriched Panax ginseng Sprouts Cultivated from Aquaponic System with a Novel Nutrient Solution Regulate LPS-Induced Inflammatory Cytokines and UVB-Induced Photoaging Responses via MAPK/AP-1 Signaling Pathways.. Plants (Basel), Jun 2025

Effect of kelp gull harassment on southern right whale calf survival: a long-term capture-recapture analysis.. Biol Lett, Jun 2023

Prediction of skin anti-aging clinical benefits of an association of ingredients from marine and maritime origins: Ex vivo evaluation using a label-free quantitative proteomic and customized data processing approach.. J Cosmet Dermatol, Feb 2019