Sea Moss Can Benefit Any Skin Type: Here's How To Use It In Your Routine

Not many skin care ingredients can help clear clogged pores, smooth fine lines, hydrate, and fade dark spots.

Then again, not many skin care ingredients can thrive in the salty depths of the ocean.

Of course, we're talking about algae: The Swiss Army knife of skin care can benefit your complexion in a dazzling number of ways. (Read all about 'em here!)

But experts believe there are nearly 73,000 species of algae, and we've only begun to scratch the surface in terms of their unique assets.

Sea moss (also known as Irish moss or by its scientific term, Chondrus crispus) is a type of red algae that grows on rocks in deep ocean water.

"Like other forms of seaweed, it is rich in bioactive antioxidants, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory compounds that have potential benefits for skin care," notes board-certified dermatologist Cynthia Bailey, M.D., founder of Dr. Bailey Skin Care.

Specifically, sea moss is rich in vitamins and minerals, including zinc, potassium, magnesium, sulfur, and phosphorus.

When used topically, algae has been found to be a better humectant1 than even hyaluronic acid, one of the buzziest hydrators of all.

And sea moss, in particular, has special moisturizing properties: It contains high amounts of polysaccharides (called carrageenans), which act as a thickening agent that forms a protective yet non-occlusive film over the skin.

"Most benefits of sea moss are attributed to its film-forming properties, making it ideal for moisturizers or serums," says clean cosmetic chemist Krupa Koestline, founder of KKT Consultants. "Carrageenan is used to give products a thick and rich feel," Bailey adds. "It binds water and can help hold water to the skin."

"It has anti-inflammatory properties thanks to the high concentration of zinc and sulfur," says Rodney.

This makes it helpful for managing dry skin and other skin concerns.

Sea moss extract may even enhance skin photoprotection from UVB exposure, notes Bailey, as it helps combat free radicals on skin cells2.

As mentioned, sea moss leaves a film over the skin—and according to Koestline, this film is structurally similar to the skin's own proteins.

"Because of this characteristic, the seaweed extract forms a protective seal over the epidermis," she says.

"Sea moss is noncomedogenic," Rodney adds, and it contains minerals that can help maintain a healthy complexion.

As we mentioned up top, it also has antibacterial properties that can help guard skin health.

Due to its ability to leave a protective film over the skin, you might want to look for sea moss in leave-on treatments, like serums, moisturizers, and masks.

"However, it can be used in a cleanser for a lightweight, moisturizing cleanse," notes Koestline.

Look for sea moss, Irish moss, or Chondrus crispus extract on your skin care labels.

Rodney also recommends snagging a jar of straight-up sea moss gel as a DIY mask—like this wildcrafted option from Herbal Vineyards.

"You can use the gel as a mask one to two times a week, increasing the frequency as needed," she says.

Like any naturally derived ingredient, sourcing matters. "There are several options on the market that are man-made, lack the potency of natural moss, or contain heavy metals," says Rodney. "Read the ingredients carefully and do some background research before choosing the right product."

Make sure the brand always sources wild, organic sea moss (rather than farmed or pool-grown) and tests it for heavy metals.

"It's important to only use sea-moss-containing products from companies that you trust source ingredients carefully," adds Bailey. 

According to an FDA paper on the safety of sea moss, there was no reported evidence that sea moss affects the skin negatively.

"At the time of the review, over 94 products were found to contain sea moss, typically at a maximum concentration of 2% or less," Bailey says.

In short: Yes! Eating sea vegetables—like sea moss—helps your body absorb essential micronutrients that support your overall health and well-being4.

"Similar to many different sea veggies, like nori, kelp, and spirulina, sea moss is deemed as a superfood of the sea for its high nutrient content," registered dietitian Mascha Davis, MPH, RDN, says. (Like iron, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, to name a select few.)

Sea moss contains impressive moisturizing, oil-balancing, and anti-inflammatory properties that make it fit for all skin types.