Get to Know Sea Moss, the Latest Ingredient Your Skin Loves
Sea moss might just be the best skincare ingredient you’ve never heard of. And while it’s long been regarded for its nutritional value in places like Ireland and Jamaica, it still may be new to you—especially when it comes to skincare. But this underrated gem has several skin health benefits, and is starting to pop up in more and more formulas. Oh, and spoiler: It isn’t actually moss. So what, exactly, is it then? And why should you pay attention? We’re breaking down this multi-tasking ingredient, what it does, and sharing a few products to try. Read on for everything there is to know about this skincare and wellness powerhouse.
Meet the Expert
Sarah Akram is a celebrity esthetician and founder of Sarah Akram Skincare in Alexandria, Virginia.
What is sea moss, and what are its benefits?
We may have already told you, but it bears repeating: Sea moss isn’t moss at all. “Sea moss is a species of red sea algae, also known as Irish moss, that grows along the Atlantic coast,” explains celebrity esthetician Sarah Akram. (In addition to Irish moss, you may also see it listed on labels as carrageen moss.) And while antioxidant-rich algae is already commonplace in the industry, using sea moss specifically is still a relatively new concept. Here are just a few benefits of sea moss for your skin:
It’s nutrient-rich.
The high vitamin and mineral content make sea moss worth its weight in skincare (and all-around wellness) gold. “It is known to have a high content of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, E, and sulfur just to name a few,” explains Akram. And if you’re concerned about what it can do for your health, you may like to know it contains calcium, magnesium, and iodine, too.
It’s anti-inflammatory.
Akram says the high sulfur content in sea moss in particular has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with a number of skin concerns (more on that in a bit).
It’s antibacterial.
Again, we have the sulfur to thank. In addition to targeting acne bacteria, it also “helps our skin with sebum control, and is great for acneic and oily skin,” says the esthetician.
It’s hydrating.
Sea moss is often found in lotions and other hydrators, because “it also helps the skin retain moisture,” according to Akram.
So, what skin types can benefit from sea moss?
Thanks to those antimicrobial properties, sea moss can be beneficial for oil and acne-prone skin. But that’s not all when it comes to healthy skin: It can also help calm other skin concerns beyond the occasional breakout. “Sea moss soothes those who struggle with skin conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema,” explains Akram.
Is sea moss safe to use on skin?
Although it has not been widely studied, dermatologists and other skin experts seem to agree that, yes, it’s generally safe to use, and is even considered a superfood. “Sea moss has many health benefits and is completely safe for skincare use,” states Akram. You can see it in all kinds of skincare products, but “Moisturizers and serums are the most beneficial way to incorporate sea moss into your skincare regimen since these products are absorbed by the skin,” says the pro.
If you’re in a DIY mood, you can also be able to create your own sea moss skincare—or even sea moss smoothies. “A DIY sea moss face mask is a great way to incorporate this amazing ingredient into your regimen,” says Akram. “When you soak the sea moss it turns into a gel, and you can apply this gel topically for skincare benefits or [ingest] it for health benefits.” That said, always look for high-quality ingredients when making your own sea moss gel, and if any unwanted side effects arise, stop use immediately and contact your physician.
Our favorite sea moss products
Not sure what to try first? Here are three products we recommend to add sea moss benefits to your skincare routine.
1. COCOKIND Sea Moss Exfoliator
This formula is made up of mostly Irish sea moss, so when it’s mixed with water it turns into a gel (as Akram described above). Massage the mixture into skin a couple of times a week to gently exfoliate and reveal a soft, glowing complexion.
2. CALDERA + LAB The Base Layer
This morning moisturizer contains a mix of adaptogens (like tremella mushroom), antioxidants (like green tea extract), and hydrating ingredients (like—you guessed it—sea moss) to create the ideal blend to protect skin for the day ahead. Plus, it has a matte finish, so it won’t affect makeup application.
3. LUSH Aqua Marina Face and Body Cleanser
Made with natural ingredients like sea moss, seaweed, and sea salt—sensing a pattern here?—this cleanser can be used on both the face and body. Mix with water to activate, then apply all over to gently exfoliate skin while also replenishing nourishment and hydration.
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