HARNESSING THE POWER OF MARINE MACROALGAE FOR BEAUTIFUL SKIN

Abstract

Marine macroalgae-derived compounds have become increasingly popular in the formulation of natural and sustainable cosmeceutical products due to their range of skin benefits such as photoprotection, moisturization, anti-aging, and antimicrobial effects. In this review article, the potential of marine macroalgae-derived compounds for cosmetic applications has been discussed. The different types of macroalgae and their biologically active constituents, including polysaccharides, peptides, amino acids, pigments, phenolic compounds, and fatty acids, have been explored. The review also highlights the mechanisms through which these compounds may offer skin benefits. Several conventional and novel extraction techniques such as Soxhlet, enzymatic, microwave-assisted, ultrasound-based, and supercritical fluid-based methods have been described for the extraction of macroalgae-derived metabolites. However, ensuring a sustainable supply chain is a challenge that needs to be addressed. Despite this, the growing interest in natural ingredients is creating new opportunities, and marine macroalgae could play a vital role in the development of safe, effective, and sustainable cosmeceutical products