Sea Kelp Extract

Botanical Extracts & Additives
Written By Tori Thomas

Sea Kelp Extract – Ascophyllum nodosum / Laminaria spp.

Why we love it at The Mindful Gem

Sea kelp extract is a mineral-dense, hydration-boosting marine botanical revered for its ability to plump, repair, and deeply nourish the skin. Rich in iodine, alginates, amino acids, fucoidan, vitamins, and antioxidants, kelp supports cell renewal, moisture retention, and environmental resilience. Research shows kelp extracts can improve barrier function, reduce inflammation, protect against UV damage, and increase hydration levels, making it a powerhouse for aging, dry, or stressed skin (Marine Drugs, 2015, DOI: 10.3390/md13031121). At The Mindful Gem, we use sea kelp extract in our night cream and Goddess Glow Gel, where it brings deep replenishment, dewy hydration, and a velvety, ocean-infused radiance.

Plant Overview:

Sea kelp refers to various large brown algae species within the Laminaria and Ascophyllum families, found in cold, nutrient-rich coastal waters. Kelp forests are among the planet’s most abundant sources of trace minerals and natural polysaccharides — essential for healthy, glowing skin.

Parts Used & Traditional Uses:

The whole fronds are harvested and extracted for their rich stores of minerals and polysaccharides. Traditionally used in coastal European and Asian herbal practices to:

  • soothe inflammation

  • detoxify and remineralize

  • support hydration and elasticity

  • strengthen tissue vitality

Skin Benefits & Mechanism:

  • Fucoidan + alginates provide deep hydration and support barrier repair.

  • High mineral content replenishes skin and promotes a supple, plumped look.

  • Antioxidant compounds protect against environmental and UV stress.

  • Soothes irritation while encouraging firmer, more resilient skin over time.

Key Benefits:

  • Deeply hydrating + plumping

  • Anti-inflammatory + calming

  • Supports collagen + elasticity

  • Antioxidant + environmental protection

  • Leaves skin silky, dewy, and replenished

Sources:

  • Fitton, J.H. (2011). “Therapeutic effects of fucoidan from brown seaweeds.” Marine Drugs. DOI: 10.3390/md13031121

  • Gupta, S. et al. (2011). “Dermatological applications of marine algae.” Journal of Applied Phycology.

  • European Medicines Agency: Ascophyllum nodosum Extract

© The Mindful Gem. All product formulations, recipes, and proprietary blends are the intellectual property of The Mindful Gem and Cosmictoria Natural Wellness. Reproduction, duplication, or use of these formulas for commercial purposes is strictly prohibited and may result in legal action.
Tori Thomas
Previous

Squalane
Next

Rosemary