Organic Sea Kelp (Ascophyllum Nodosum) is a brown seaweed harvested from the cold Atlantic waters off the coast of Nova Scotia and Maine. This marine superfood is rich in bioactive compounds that deliver serious skincare benefits.

What is Organic Sea Kelp?

Organic Sea Kelp (Ascophyllum Nodosum) is a species of brown algae known for its high mineral content, antioxidants, and complex polysaccharides. It thrives in harsh, nutrient-dense marine environments, which makes it especially potent in skincare.

How is Organic Sea Kelp used in skincare?

• Extracts or Powders: Organic sea kelp is most often used in serums, creams, masks, and soaps as sea kelp bioferment or kelp extract.
• Soothing Gels or Wraps: Found in spa treatments, this marine superfood is known for detoxifying and hydrating the skin.
• DIY Masks & Scrubs: Organic sea kelp can be used in powdered form mixed with aloe, honey, or yogurt for a natural face mask.

What are the benefits of Organic Sea Kelp for your complexion and skin microbiome?

Sea kelp’s prebiotic polysaccharides feed beneficial skin microbes, supporting a healthy skin barrier and microbiome balance. Studies on marine-derived polysaccharides have shown they can enhance microbial diversity on the skin, protect skin from environmental damage, as well as increase levels of Akkermansia and other beneficial strains in topical formulations.

While research on Organic kelp specifically is still growing, its molecular makeup strongly supports these microbiome-friendly properties. It’s becoming a favorite in microbiome-friendly skincare for several reasons:

• Deep Hydration: Sea kelp is naturally high in fucoidan, laminarin, and alginates—all of which are prebiotic sugars that feed the good bacteria on your skin. These prebiotics help promote a healthy microbial environment by encouraging the growth of beneficial microbes that protect against pathogens. They also draw moisture into the skin and help form a barrier to lock it in—ideal for dry, dehydrated, or compromised skin.
• Rich in Minerals: A healthy microbiome starts with a strong skin barrier. Sea kelp helps reinforce it by improving hydration with moisture-binding sugars, delivering trace minerals like iodine, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron that fuel enzymatic and cellular repair and reducing TEWL (transepidermal water loss). These are vital for skin cell regeneration and overall skin vitality.
• Balances Oil Production: Its natural minerals and amino acids can help regulate sebum, making it useful for oily and combination skin types.
• Anti-Inflammatory & Antioxidant Activity: Microbiome imbalances often show up as inflammation—redness, breakouts, sensitivity. The phlorotannins and polyphenols in kelp help calm inflammation, which in turn helps preserve microbial balance and reduce overgrowth of bad bacteria.
• Anti-Aging: Sea kelp is packed with antioxidants, including vitamin C and E, which protect the skin from free radical damage and help boost collagen production, reducing fine lines and improving elasticity.
• Gentle Detoxifying Without Stripping: Unlike harsh exfoliants or cleansers, kelp gently draws out impurities without disrupting your skin’s natural oils or microbiota.