Macrocystis Pyrifera (Kelp) Extract

Good

Antioxidant

Macrocystis Pyrifera (Kelp) Extract at a glance

  • Type of brown seaweed
  • Contains B vitamins + vitamins A and E
  • Source of moisturizing oleic and linoleic acids
  • Has soothing and barrier restoring properties
  • Ruled safe as used in cosmetics

Macrocystis Pyrifera (Kelp) Extract description

_Macrocystis pyrifera_ extract comes from a type of macroalgae, or brown seaweed (also known as kelp), native to New Zealand. _Macrocystis pyrifera_ – like most seaweed varieties – is an abundant source of B vitamins, along with vitamins A and E. In fact, _Macrocystis pyrifera_ has more tocopherol (the most bioactive form of vitamin E) than soybean or sunflower oils, both considered to be rich sources of this antioxidant. In addition to its ability to defend skin against environmental stressors, studies show this seaweed contains skin conditioning fatty acids oleic and ceramide-essential linoleic acids. There is also research indicating that _Macrocystis pyrifera_ has a potent soothing effect on skin and helps restore barrier health. In addition to all these anti-aging and soothing properties, this type of kelp is also used as a texture enhancer in cosmetics. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has ruled _Macrocystis pyrifera_ safe in its current use, which ranges from 0.1–1%.

Macrocystis Pyrifera (Kelp) Extract references

  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, Website, Accessed September 2024
  • International Journal of Molecular Sciences, November 2023, pages 1-20
  • International Journal of Biological Molecules, September 2022, pages 757-767
  • Planta Medica International Open, June 2022, pages e80-e89
  • Marine Drugs, March 2021, pages 1-28
  • Molecules, February 2021, pages 1-42
  • Resources, August 2020, pages 1-30

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.