Slimy, slippery and slightly a nuance, seaweed isn’t exactly something that’s enjoyable to encounter while you’re taking a dip in the sea. But here at eXO Skin Simple, we recognize that there is much more that meets the eye when it comes to seaweed—in fact, it’s one of the most vital, nutritious and dynamic plant varietals around.

This makes it a perfect skincare ingredient: One that possesses unique hydrating, anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits, plus is loaded in essential antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. So as far as we are concerned, the more marine magic you can pack into your skincare routine, the better. Ahead, we’re discussing the beautiful properties of each of our seaweed ingredients—kelp, Irish moss, kombu, blue algae and kombu.

Read on!

Kelp – Yep, we’re talking about the stringy seaweed that you may otherwise want to avoid while taking a swim. Kelp is a nutrient-rich sea plant that’s loaded in trace minerals and vitamins; it offers superior hydrating benefits, plus possesses anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties.

Irish Moss – Another seaweed that usually lives in low water and on rocks, Irish moss is very nutritious, containing high amounts of potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium and iron. It also possesses an array of vitamins, particularly skin-hydrating Vitamin A and free radical-fighting Vitamin C.

Kombu – Fun fact: Kombu seaweed contains up to 8 times more calcium than milk! While milk does a body good, kombu’s key feature is its high level of Vitamin B2. This nutrient plays a critical role in the production of collagen, helping to prevent fine lines and premature aging. 

Blue Algae – This blue-green plant can look supernatural, which is fitting considering its nearly magical healing properties. High in proteins and fatty acids, blue algae helps to lift, tone and nourish skin, plus assist in the production of all-important collagen.

Sea Lettuce – Another seaweed super-food, sea lettuce contains all nine essential amino acids, plus an array of antioxidants. It’s for this reason that it’s a potent tool against free radicals, those nasty atoms that cause oxidative stress and skin damage.

Add seaweed to your skincare routine—shop the eXO collection.