Role of Marine Macroalgae in Cosmeceuticals: Comparison
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Please note this is a comparison between Version 1 by Leonel Pereira and Version 4 by Lindsay Dong.

The cosmetic industry uses the term ‘cosmeceutical’ to refer to a cosmetic formula that has drug-like applicative advantages. Many marine algae are rich in biologically active components that have been reported to exhibit strong benefits to the skin, mainly for photoprotection, skin whitening, moisturization, anti-aging, anti-wrinkle, antioxidants, and antimicrobial uses. 

  • seaweeds
  • bioactivity
  • cosmeceuticals
  • skin care
  • anti-inflammatory

1. Introduction

In cosmeceuticals, cosmetic products are a topical combination of cosmetic and pharmaceutical with bioactive molecules to have medicinal or drug-like applications to improve health and texture of skin [1][2]. Due to modernization and skin care attention, cosmetic companies are enlarging gradually each year worldwide. To fulfill the requirements of customers, these cosmetic companies are moving towards unbeatable exploitation of synthetic cosmetics and constituents. Due to the ineffectiveness of synthetic components, it may cumulate in skin and produce toxic effects and may cause harm to healthy skin structure. Hydroxybenzoic acid esters (parabens) reported its adverse effect to the skin as well as increase incidence of malignant melanoma and breast cancer since it is widely used in cosmetic formulations [3]. Another substance is phthalate, which is highly found in different cosmetic formulations that can cause DNA mutations and damage, as found in human male gamete [4][5]. Some of these synthetic chemical compounds can cause detrimental effects in animals such as reduction of sperm counts, changed pregnancy outcomes, congenital disabilities of male genitalia, etc. [6]. As a result, users have changed their liking and selected natural cosmetic products for usage [7]. Hence, the enlarging market for skincare formulations and constant look for an alternative natural constituents led to the production of a different types of cosmeceutical skin products [8].
In cosmeceuticals, cosmetic products are a topical combination of cosmetic and pharmaceutical with bioactive molecules to have medicinal or drug-like applications to improve health and texture of skin [1,2]. Due to modernization and skin care attention, cosmetic companies are enlarging gradually each year worldwide. To fulfill the requirements of customers, these cosmetic companies are moving towards unbeatable exploitation of synthetic cosmetics and constituents. Due to the ineffectiveness of synthetic components, it may cumulate in skin and produce toxic effects and may cause harm to healthy skin structure. Hydroxybenzoic acid esters (parabens) reported its adverse effect to the skin as well as increase incidence of malignant melanoma and breast cancer since it is widely used in cosmetic formulations [3]. Another substance is phthalate, which is highly found in different cosmetic formulations that can cause DNA mutations and damage, as found in human male gamete [4,5]. Some of these synthetic chemical compounds can cause detrimental effects in animals such as reduction of sperm counts, changed pregnancy outcomes, congenital disabilities of male genitalia, etc. [6]. As a result, users have changed their liking and selected natural cosmetic products for usage [7]. Hence, the enlarging market for skincare formulations and constant look for an alternative natural constituents led to the production of a different types of cosmeceutical skin products [8].
Marine macroalgae (seaweeds) are macroscopic, multicellular, eukaryotic organisms that can perform photosynthesis due to presence of Chlorophyll and some other photosynthetic pigments. They are widely distributed along the coastal line (the intertidal and sub-tidal regions) and in brackish water [9]. Based on pigment composition, they can be classified into three types. Brown alga belongs to Ochrophyta phylum (Phaeophyceae class), red alga belongs to Rhodophyta phylum, and green alga belongs to Chlorophyta phylum. Among these three types, brown algae belong to the Chromista kingdom, whereas green and red algae belong to the Plantae kingdom [9][10]. Seaweeds have a more highly diversified bioactive constituents than terrestrial organisms [11]. These bioactive compounds have a wide range of biological activities which can be used in product preparation as an ingredient [12][13]. The applications of macroalgae in cosmeceutical formulations depends on their constituents (such as polysaccharides, carbohydrate derivatives, proteins, peptides, amino acids, phenolic compounds, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, pigments, etc.) [14][15]. Many previous findings have reported the role of seaweed based bioactive compounds which offer antitumor, antiallergic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiinflammation, antilipidemic activity, antiwrinkle, anti-aging, moisturizing, and photoprotection activities [5][14][16][17][18].
Marine macroalgae (seaweeds) are macroscopic, multicellular, eukaryotic organisms that can perform photosynthesis due to presence of Chlorophyll and some other photosynthetic pigments. They are widely distributed along the coastal line (the intertidal and sub-tidal regions) and in brackish water [10]. Based on pigment composition, they can be classified into three types. Brown alga belongs to Ochrophyta phylum (Phaeophyceae class), red alga belongs to Rhodophyta phylum, and green alga belongs to Chlorophyta phylum. Among these three types, brown algae belong to the Chromista kingdom, whereas green and red algae belong to the Plantae kingdom [10,11]. Seaweeds have a more highly diversified bioactive constituents than terrestrial organisms [12]. These bioactive compounds have a wide range of biological activities which can be used in product preparation as an ingredient [13,14]. The applications of macroalgae in cosmeceutical formulations depends on their constituents (such as polysaccharides, carbohydrate derivatives, proteins, peptides, amino acids, phenolic compounds, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, pigments, etc.) [15,16]. Many previous findings have reported the role of seaweed based bioactive compounds which offer antitumor, antiallergic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiinflammation, antilipidemic activity, antiwrinkle, anti-aging, moisturizing, and photoprotection activities [5,15,17,18,19].

2. Seaweed Derived Metabolites in Cosmetics

For the preparation of cosmeceutical products, macroalgae-derived compounds have been noted as being of significant importance [19][20]. Polysaccharides have a great role in cosmetics including in moisturizers, emulsifiers, wound healing agents, and thickening agents [20][21]. Fernando et al. [21][22] have reported anti-inflammation activity of Fucoidan from Chnoospora minima (Phaeophyceae) by inhibition of Lipopolysaccharides induced nitric oxide production, inducible nitric oxide productions, Cyclooxygenase-2, and Prostaglandin E2 levels in an experimental study by targeting RAW macrophages. Likewise, Ariede et al. [22][23], Wang et al. [23][24], and Teas and Irhimeh, [24][25] reported beneficial activities of Fucus vesiculosus (Figure 1a) (Phaeophyceae) derived polysaccharides such as anti-aging, anti-melanogenic, anti-cancer, and antioxidant activity by stimulating collagen production, tyrosinase inhibition, decreasing melanoma growth and by preventing oxidation formation, respectively. In addition, the anti-inflammation activity of sulphated polysaccharide from Padina tetrastromatica (Phaeophyceae) by COX-2 and iNOS inhibitions in an experimental model of Paw edema in rats [25][26]. Moreover, Khan et al. [26][27] reported the anti-inflammation activity of polyunsaturated fatty acids derived from Undaria pinnatifida (Figure 1b) (Phaeophyceae) on mouse ear edema and erythema. In vitro, the antioxidant activity of methanolic extracts from Osmundaria obtusilo and Palisada flagellifera (Rhodophyta) was studied by DPPH, ABTS, metal chelating, Folin ciocalteau, and beta-carotene bleaching assays [27][28][28,29]. Phenolic compound Sargachromanol E revealed antiaging activities from Sargassum horneri (Phaeophyceae) by inhibition of matric metalloprotein expression on UVA irradiated dermal fibroblast [29][30].

Phycology 02 00010 g001 550
 
Phycology 02 00010 g001 550
Figure 1.
Seaweed species images: (
a
)—Fucus vesiculosus (P); (
b
)—Undaria pinnatifida (P); (
c
)—Schizymenia dubyi (R); (
d
)—Ulva linza (C); (
e
)—Bryopsis plumosa (C); (
f
)—Laminaria digitata (P); (
g
)—Palmaria palmata (R); (
h
)—Himanthalia elongata (P); (
i
)—Porphyra umbilicalis (R); (
j
)—Jania rubens (R); (
k
)—Gracilaria gracilis (R); (
l
)—Ceramium virgatum (R); (
m
)—Kappaphycus alvarezii (R); (
n
)—Ulva lactuca (C); (
o
)—Ascophyllum nodosum (P); (
p)—Eucheuma denticulatum (R); C—Chlorophyta; R—Rhodophyta; P—Phaeophyceae; Scale = 1 cm.
)—Eucheuma denticulatum (R); C—Chlorophyta; R—Rhodophyta; P—Phaeophyceae; Scale = 1 cm.

3. Polysaccharides

Marine macroalgae derived polysaccharides are well known for their biological benefits. The presence of polysaccharides (ulvan, fucoidan, alginate, laminarin, carrageenan, sulphated polysaccharides, agar, and agarose) in macroalgae and noted their cosmeceutical benefits. Other examples of macroalgae derived polysaccharides and their cosmetic benefits are presented in Table 1.

Table 1. Application of macroalgae derived polysaccharides in skin cosmetics.
Table 2.
Applications of macroalgae derived peptides and amino acids in skin cosmetics.
No. Name of Macroalgae Compounds Cosmetic Benefits References
1
Scytosiphon lomentaria
(P)
Amino acids
218
]
C, Chlorophyta; R, Rhodophyta; P, Phaeophyceae.

7. Fatty Acids

Seaweeds are well known for various types of fatty acids such as glycolipids, triglycerides, sterols, and phospholipids. The chemical structures of marine algae derived fatty acids are illustrated in
Figure 7
. These have been reported as being higher in seaweed as compared to terrestrial plants. Different types of fatty acids from different macroalgae and its cosmetic benefits are presented in
Table 5
.
Table 5.
Applications of macroalgae derived lipids and fatty acids in skin cosmetics.
No. Name of Macroalgae Fatty acid Cosmetic Benefits References
Antioxidant, Radical scavengers, Chelators
[
1 Macrocystis pyrifera
1 (P) Chondrus crispus

(R)		Chondrus crispus

(Phlorotannins, Phloroeckol, Tetrameric phloroglucinol		74] Figure 3b) (R)Antioxidant, Antidiabetic, Antiaging[75][76][97,98, EPA, AA, DHA, GLA, LA, Palmitic acid, Oleic acid99]
[123] Antiallergic, Anti-aging, Anti-inflammation, Antiwrinkle, Antimicrobial, Emollients,[188] 2
[154][229] Gracilaria vermiculophylla (R) 2 Ascophyllum nodosum

(		Figure 1o) (P) Ascophyllan MMP inhibition
2Porphyra-334, Palythine, Asterina-330, Shinorine Undaria pinnatifida

(		Figure 1Antioxidant, UV protector b) (P)[77][100]
[124][189]
PUFA Anti-inflammatory 3 Ulva lactuca (Figure 1n) (C),

Asparagopsis armata (R)		n) (C),

Asparagopsis armata

(Figure 3c) (R)		 MAAs, Amino acids Antiaging, Anti wrinkles, Improves collagen formation [78][101]
4 Pelvetia canaliculata

(P)
MAAs
UV protector
[
92
]
[
115
]
18 Sargassum polycystum (P) Amino acids and amines Anti-melanogenic or skin whitening effect [93][94][95][116,117,118]
19 Porphyra umbilicalis

(		Figure 1i) (R) Porphyra-334, Shinorine Moisturization, Skin protector, Antiwrinkle, Protect against roughness [96][119]
21 Porphyra yezoensis f. coreana (R) Peptides, PYP1-5, porphyra-334 Enhance Elastin and collagen formation, reduce MMP expression [96][119]
22 Palmaria palmata (Figure 1g), Porphyra umbilicalis

(		Figure 1i) (R) MAAs Antiaging, Collagenase inhibition [97][98][120,121]
C, Chlorophyta; R, Rhodophyta; P, Phaeophyceae.

5. Pigments

Marine macroalgae have a broad diversity of photosynthetic pigments that capture light for the photosynthesis process. Chlorophyta (green algae) contain chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids; Rhodophyta (red algae) contain chlorophyll a, phycobilin (phycocyanin, phycoerythrin), and carotenoids (carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin), and Phaeophyceae (brown algae) contain chlorophyll a, chlorophyll c, fucoxanthin, and different carotenoid pigments. Different macroalgae-derived pigments and cosmetic applications are reported in
Table 3. These pigments provide a shield to the skin cells against harmful UV radiations [99].
. These pigments provide a shield to the skin cells against harmful UV radiations [135].
Table 3.
Applications of macroalgae derived pigments in skin cosmetics.
No. Name of Macroalgae Pigment Cosmetic Benefits References
1 Sargassum spp. Carotenoids, Astaxanthin, Beta-carotene, Fucoxanthin Anticellulite, Antiaging, Antiphotoaging, antioxidant, antiviral [100][148]
2 Saccharina japonica (P) Fucoxanthin Inhibition of tyrosinase and Melanogenesis in UVB irradiated [101][149]
[154][229] 3 Cladosiphon okamuranus (P) Fucoxanthin Antioxidant, DPPH inhibition [ 3 Cystoseira foeniculacea (P)102 Polyphenol Antioxidant][150]
[125][190]
3 Ulva lactuca

(		Figure 1n) (P) Fatty acid such as C18 and C16 type In-vitro and in-vivo Nrf2-ARE activation, Cell protective, Antioxidant [155][230] 4Pelvetia canaliculata

(Figure 3d) (P)		 Amino acids Antioxidant, Collagen formation, Proteoglycan’s synthesis [79][102]
Neopyropia yezoensis® Phycoerythrin Antioxidant, Anticancer, Antiinflammatory 4 Stephanocystis hakodatensis (P) Phenol Antioxidant
4[126][191]
Phaeophyceae

[103][34] (Brown algae) (P) Unsaturated Fatty acids Antioxidant [156][231] 5 Gracilaria chilensis, Pyropia plicata, Champia novae-zelandiae (R) MAAs Anti UV, Antioxidant [
5 Gracilaria gracilis, Porpyridium sp. (R)80] Phycobiliprotein pigment such as R-phycoerythrin, Phycocyanin, Allophycocyanins 5[103]
Antioxidant, Skin whitening activity by Antimelanogenic activity Ecklonia cava subsp. Stolonifera (P)[104][151]
5 Ulva lactucaFucofuroeckol-A

Protection against UVB radiation		 (Figure 1n) (P)[127][ Lipopeptides192]
Inhibition of elastase, enhance collagen synthesis [157][232] 6 Ulva lactuca

(		Figure 1n) (C) Arginine, Aspartic acid, Glycine Enhance collagen and elastin synthesis
6 Cladophora glomera 7®(C)[80] Chlorophyll a, Chlorophyll b, Chlorophyll c, Chlorophyll d[103]
Antibacterial, Antioxidant, Colorants, Deodorizer Corallina pilulifera (R)[105][106][107][152 Phlorotannins Antiaging, antiinflammatio, antioxidants, antiallergic, UV screens
6 Himanthalia elongata

(		Figure 1h) (P),[153,154] 128][193] 7
Fatty acids and volatile compounds Antioxidant, Antimicrobial [158][233] Porphyra umbilicalis

(		Figure 1i) (R) MAAs, (2:1 ratio of Porphyra-334 and Shinorine) Antiaging
7 Portieri®p. (R)[81] Phycobiliproteins, Phycoerythrin, Phycocyanin[104]
8Antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, Colorants, Radical scavenger Ishige foliacea (P) Phlorotannin[107][154] Antimelanogenic, inhibition of tyrosinase and melanin synthesis [
7 Porphyridium purpureum (R)129][130][194,195]
Eicosapentaenoic acid, Docosahexaenoic acid, Eicosatetraenoic acid, Polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-photoaging [159][234] 8 Palmaria palmata

(		Figure 1g),

Catenella caespitosa (R)		 10 Laminaria ochroleuca

MAAs (P)Laminaria ochroleuca

(Figure 3f) (P)UV and UV-A protection		 [82][105]
8 Cladophora glomerata (C) Chlorophyll PolyphenolTissue growth stimulators
8 Ulva rigida (C), Gracilaria sp. (R), Antioxidant Fucus vesiculosus (Figure 1a), Saccharina latissima

(P)		Ulva rigida (Figure 3m) (C), Gracilaria sp. (R), Fucus vesiculosus (Figure 1a), Saccharina latissima

(Figure 3g) (P)		[108][155] [ Lipidic profile131][ Antioxidant196]
[160][235] 9 11Porphyra sp.,

Catenella caespitosa (R), Padina crassa, Desmarestia aculeata (P)		 MAAs such as Aminocyclohexenone-type, Aminocyclohexene imine-type Caulerpa racemoPhotoprotection, Antiaging, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant [83][
9 Neopyropia y®ensis (R)®106]
Porphyran Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory (C) Flavonoids, Hydroquinone, Saponins Tyrosinase inhibitor
9 Sargassum fusiforme (P)[109][156] Fucosterol Protection against photodamage, UVB protector, MMP inhibition, Enhance procollagen formation, Anti-inflammatory[132][197]
[161]][236[162,237 10 Curdiea racovitzae, Iridaea cordata 12 (R) Palythine, asterina-330 Antioxidant, Anti-UV, Antiaging [84][
10 U® lactuca (C)107]
Carotenoids such as astaxanthin, beta-carotene, fucoxanthin, lutein Anti-inflammatory, Antiaging, Tyrosinase inhibition, Antioxidants, Photoprotective [106 Ecklonia cava (P)][ Dioxinodehydroeckol UV B protective153] [133][198]
]
10 Gracilariopsis longissima (R), Saccharina japonica (P) (8E)-10-oxo-8-octadecenoic acid, (E)-9-oxo-10-octadecenoic acid, Myristic acid, Palmitic acid Anti-inflammatory [163][238] 11 Porphyra sp. (R) Protein and hydrolysates Moisture retention capacity and viscosifying agent [
1185] Rhodophyta (R)[ Lutein86 Skin whitening][108,109]
[110][157] 13 Ecklonia cava subsp. stolonifera (P) Phlorotannins Inhibition of Matric metalloproteins (MMPs), Antiwrinkle, Tyrosinase inhibitor, Skin whitener [134][199]
11 Silvetia siliquosa (P) Fucosterol Antioxidant, Stimulate antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, glutathione peroxidase [164][165][239,240] 12 Palmaria sp., Porphyra sp. (R) High amounts of Glycine and Arginine Natural moisturizing factor [87][110]
12 Paraglossum lancifolium (R) 14 Saccharina latissima (P)Saccharina latissima (Lipid soluble pigments such as Xanthophyll and Carotenoids

Beta-carotene, Lutein		 Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Antiphotoaging, Photoprotection, Anti-photoaging Figure 3g) (P)[111][158 Phenol] Antioxidant [
14135][200]
Sargassum fusiforme (P) Fucosterol Anti-aging, MMP inhibition [166][241] 13 Chondrus crispus, Mastocarpus stellatus, Palmaria palmata (Chondrus crispus (Figure 3b), Mastocarpus stellatus (Figure 1g) (R)3e), Palmaria palmata (Figure 1g) (R) Palythine, Usujirene, Porphyra-334, Shinorine, Asterina, palythinol Antioxidant, Anti-proliferation [88][111]
13 Undaria pinnatifida (P) Fucoxanthin Photoprotective 15 Ecklonia cava (P) Dieckol Anti-adipogenesis
15 Codium fragile (C)[112][159] [136][201] 14 Pelvetia canaliculata

(P)		Pelvetia canaliculata

Sterol Anti-inflammatory [167][242] (Figure 3d) (P) Amino acids
14 PorphyraAntioxidant, Collagen synthesis, Proteoglycan synthesis stimulation sp. (P) 16 Ecklonia cava subsp. Zeaxanthin, Alpha and beta carotene[89 kurome (P)Anti-inflammatory, Photoprotection, Antioxidant, Antiaging][ Phlorotannin112]
[113][ Anti-inflammatory, Hyaluronidase inhibition [137][202] 15 Laminaria digitata (Figure 1f) (P) Proteins Lipolytic [90][113]
160]
15 Gracilaria gracilis (Figure 1k) (R) Phycobiliproteins (R-phycoerythrin allophycocyanin, Phycocyanin) Antioxidant
17 Caulerp®p. (C) Flavonoids, Phenols[104] Tyrosinase inhibitors[151] [138][203] 16 Neopyropia yezoensis (R) Peptide PPy1 Anti-inflammatory [91][114]
16 Sargassum siliquastrum (P) Fucoxanthin Skin protector, Antiphotoaging, Antiwrinkle
18 Rhodomela conf®oides[114][161] (R) Polyphenol, Bromophenol Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, DPPH inhibition [139] 17 Palmaria palmata

(		Figure 1g) (R)
17 Ulva lactuca (C) Zeaxanthin, Neoxanthin, Antheraxanthin, Siphonein, Siphoxanthin, Photoprotection, Antiphotoaging, Anti-inflammatory [115][162]
[204]
19 Eisenia bicyclis, Ecklonia Cava subsp. stolonifera (P) Eckol Anti-inflammation, Skin whitening activity [140][141][205,206] 18 Himanthalia elongata (P) Fucoxanthin extract Antioxidant [116]
20 Schizymenia dubyi (Figure 1[163]
c) (R) Phenol Anti-melanogenic, Tyrosinase inhibition [142][207] 19 Ascophyllum nodosum (P) Fucoxanthin Antiagin, Antiwrinkle
21 Cystoseira compressa

(P)		Cystoseira compressa

(Figure 3h) (P)		[117 Fuhalol][164]
Antioxidant [143][208] 20 Fucus vesiculosus (P) Fucoxanthin
  Cystoseira compressaAntioxidant

(P)		Cystoseira compressa

(Figure 3h) (P)		 Fuhalol Antioxidant[118][165]
[143][208] 21 Phaeophyta Fucoxanthin Antiphotoaging [119
22][166]
Ecklonia cava (P) dieckol Promotes hair growth [144][209] 22 Sargassum siliquastrum (P)
23 Fucus vesiculosus (Figure 1a), Gongolaria nodicaulis, Fucoxanthin Ericaria selaginoides, Gongolaria usneoides, Ecklonia cavaAnti-melanogenic (skin whitening effect), Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory (P)a), Gongolaria nodicaulis (Figure 3i), Ericaria selaginoides (Figure 3j), Gongolaria usneoides (Figure 3k), Ecklonia cava (P)[120 Phlorotannins such as Fucophloroethol, Fucodiphloroethol, Fucotripholoroethol, Phlorofucofuroeckol bieckol or dieckol][167]
Skin whitening effect, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Antihistamine, Photoprotection [145][210]
24 Ascophyllum nodosum

(		Figure 1o) (P) Phlorotannins, Eckols, Fucols, Phlorethols Inhibition of tyrosinase, Anti-inflammation, Anti UV, Anti-allergic, Chelators, Antiaging, Hyaluronidase inhibitor [145][210]
25 Meristotheca dakarensis (R) Glucosaminoglycan Anti-aging, Collagen synthesis [12][13]
26
Laminarin, Alginate, Fucoidan
Antioxidant
[
72
]
SP, Sulphated Polysaccharides; C, Chlorophyta; R, Rhodophyta; P, Phaeophyceae; * Microalgae.
Application of macroalgae derived polysaccharides in skin cosmetics.
23
Gelidium crinale
(R)
Carotenoids
Antioxidant
[
121
]
[
168
]
Gongolaria nodicaulis
,


Ericaria selaginoides
,


Gongolaria usneoides
(P)
Gongolaria nodicaulis
,


Ericaria selaginoides
,


Gongolaria usneoides
(
Figure 3
k) (P)
Phlorotannins such as bioeckol, 7-phloroeckol, phlorofucofuroeckol, fucophloroethol
Anti-inflammation, Antioxidant, Anti-aging, Inhibition of hyaluronidase
[
145][210]
27 Fucus spiralis

(P)		Fucus spiralis

(Figure 3l) (P)		 Phlorotannins Inhibition of lipid peroxidation, hyaluronidase inhibitor, antiaging, antiwrinkle, Anti-inflammatory, Antiwrinkle [145][210]
28 Ecklonia cava, Ecklonia cava subsp. stolonifera (P) Eckol, 6,6′-bieckol, doeckol, Phlorofucofuroeckol-A, 8,8′-bieckol Anti-allergic [146][211]
29 Eisenia bicyclis, Ecklonia cava subsp. stolonifera Phlorofucofuroeckol A Hepatoprotective, Anti-tyrosinase [147][148][212,213]
30 Eisenia arborea, Ecklonia bicyclis (P) Phlorotannins Anti-inflammation, Hyaluronidase inhibitor, antiwrinkle [149][214]
31 Eisenia arborea (P) Phlorofucofuroeckol A Anti-allergic [150][215]
32 Ascophyllum nodosum

(		Figure 1o),

Fucus serratus, Himanthalia elongata (Figure 1h),

Sargassum muticum (P)		o),

Fucus serratus (Figure 3n), Himanthalia elongata (Figure 1h),

Sargassum muticum (P)		 Phlorotannins Antioxidant, Antibacterial, antiviral, photoprotection, Anti-inflammatory [151][152][153][216,217,218]
33 Ecklonia cava (P) Eckols, fucols, phlorethols, Fuhalols, fucophlorethol Anti-aging, Anti-inflammation, Hyaluronidase inhibitor, antiallergic, UV protector [153][
No.Name of MacroalgaePolysaccharidesCosmetic BenefitsReferences
1Ulva lactuca

(Figure 1n) (C)		SP (Ulvan)Antioxidant, Moisturizer, Photoprotective[39]
 Neopyropia yezoensis (R)PorphyranAntiinflammation[40,41]
2Porphyridium sp.* (R),

Costaria costata (P), Ulva lactuca (Figure 1n) (C)		Sulphated polysaccharidesAntioxidant,

Anti-inflammatory,

Antiaging		[42]
3Fucus vesiculosus (Figure 1a)FucoidansAntiaging, Antiwrinkle[43]
4Ascophyllum nododum

(Figure 1o),

Chnoospora minima,

Sargassum fusiforme,

Saccharina japonica, Sargassum polycystum,

S. vachellianum,

S. hemiphyllum (P)		FucoidansPhotoprotection, Anti photoaging

Anti-inflammatory,

Anti-elastase, Anti-collagenase, Skin whitening		[44,45,46,47]
5Fucus vesiculosus

(Figure 1a) (P)		FucoidanAnticoagulant Antioxidant, Enhancer of Skin fibroblast formation[48]
6Neoporphyra haitanensis (R)PorphyranAntioxidant[49,50]
7Saccharina longicruris (P)LaminaranAnti-inflammation, Antioxidant, Reconstruction of dermis[51,52]
8Saccharina longicruris (P)GalactofucansEnhance fibroblast formation, Increase synthesis of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) complex and collagen-1[53]
9Eucheuma denticulatum

(Figure 1p) (R)		CarrageenanAntioxidant, photoprotection[54]
10Gelidium sp. (R)AgarThickener[55]
11Ascophyllum sp.,

Fucus sp.,

Sargassum sp., Undaria sp. (P)		LaminaranAnticellulite[56]
12Saccharina cichorioides (P)FucoidanAnti-atopic dermatitis[57]
13Corallina officinalis

(Figure 3a) (R)		Sulphated polysaccharidesAntioxidant[58]
14Ulva australis (C)UlvanAntiaging[59,60]
15Acanthophora muscoides (R)Sulphated polysaccharides-CarrageenanAnticoagulant, Antinociceptive, antiinflammation, Gel agents[61,62,63]
17Chondrus crispus (R)CarrageenanGel and Thickening agent, Skin moisturizer[64]
18Ulva rigida (Figure 3m),

U. pseudorotundata (C)		Sulphated polysaccharidesAntioxidant, Chelators, Gel agents, Moisturizer[65]
19Ascophyllum nodosum

(Figure 1o) (P)		FucoidanAnti-inflammation, Antiviral, Antiaging, Anti elastase, Photoprotective, Tyrosinase inhibition, Anticellulite[66]
20Gracilaria sp. (R)AgarThickener[67]
21Padina boergesenii (P)Sulphated polysaccharidesFormation of collagen[68]
22Macrocystis sp., Lessonia sp., Laminaria sp. (P)AlginateGelling and Stabilizing agent, Moisturizer, Chelator[69,70]
24Kjellmaniella crassifoliaFucoidanAntiaging, Antiwrinkle[71]
25Brown algae (P)AlginateThickening agent

Gelling agent		[72]
27Sargassum

vachellianum (P)		PolysaccharidesSkin moisturizer and protectors[73]
28Fucus vesiculosus (Figure 1a),

Laminaria digitata (Figure 1f),

Undaria pinnatifida (Figure 1b) (P)		FucoidanAntioxidant, Antiaging,

Anticoagulant, Increase skin fibroblast formulation		[74,75]
29Ascophyllum nodosum

(Figure 1o) (P)		FucoidanAnti-elastase, gelatinase A inhibition, Inhibition of interleukin-1 beta in fibroblast cells[76]
30Ecklonia cava (P)PhlorotanninsPhotoprotectors against UV-B[77,78]
31Neoporphyra haitanensis,

Gracilaria chouae,

G. blodgetti (R)		AgarAntioxidant,

Thickeners

Antitumor,

Radiation protector,

Antiaging		[79,80]
32Turbinaria conoides (P)Laminarin, Alginate, FucoidanAntioxidant[81]
No.
Name of Macroalgae
PolysaccharidesCosmetic BenefitsReferences
1Ulva lactuca

(Figure 1n) (C)		SP (Ulvan)Antioxidant, Moisturizer, Photoprotective[30]
 Neopyropia yezoensis (R)PorphyranAntiinflammation[31][32]
2Porphyridium sp.* (R),

Costaria costata (P), Ulva lactuca (Figure 1n) (C)		Sulphated polysaccharidesAntioxidant,

Anti-inflammatory,

Antiaging		[33]
3Fucus vesiculosus (Figure 1a)FucoidansAntiaging, Antiwrinkle[34]
4Ascophyllum nododum

(Figure 1o),

Chnoospora minima,

Sargassum fusiforme,

Saccharina japonica, Sargassum polycystum,

S. vachellianum,

S. hemiphyllum (P)		FucoidansPhotoprotection, Anti photoaging

Anti-inflammatory,

Anti-elastase, Anti-collagenase, Skin whitening		[35][36][37][38]
5Fucus vesiculosus

(Figure 1a) (P)		FucoidanAnticoagulant Antioxidant, Enhancer of Skin fibroblast formation[39]
6Neoporphyra haitanensis (R)PorphyranAntioxidant[40][41]
7Saccharina longicruris (P)LaminaranAnti-inflammation, Antioxidant, Reconstruction of dermis[42][43]
8Saccharina longicruris (P)GalactofucansEnhance fibroblast formation, Increase synthesis of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) complex and collagen-1[44]
9Eucheuma denticulatum

(Figure 1p) (R)		CarrageenanAntioxidant, photoprotection[45]
10Gelidium sp. (R)AgarThickener[46]
11Ascophyllum sp.,

Fucus sp.,

Sargassum sp., Undaria sp. (P)		LaminaranAnticellulite[47]
12Saccharina cichorioides (P)FucoidanAnti-atopic dermatitis[48]
13Corallina officinalis (R)Sulphated polysaccharidesAntioxidant[49]
14Ulva australis (C)UlvanAntiaging[50][51]
15Acanthophora muscoides (R)Sulphated polysaccharides-CarrageenanAnticoagulant, Antinociceptive, antiinflammation, Gel agents[52][53][54]
17Chondrus crispus (R)CarrageenanGel and Thickening agent, Skin moisturizer[55]
18Ulva rigida,

U. pseudorotundata (C)		Sulphated polysaccharidesAntioxidant, Chelators, Gel agents, Moisturizer[56]
19Ascophyllum nodosum

(Figure 1o) (P)		FucoidanAnti-inflammation, Antiviral, Antiaging, Anti elastase, Photoprotective, Tyrosinase inhibition, Anticellulite[57]
20Gracilaria sp. (R)AgarThickener[58]
21Padina boergesenii (P)Sulphated polysaccharidesFormation of collagen[59]
22Macrocystis sp., Lessonia sp., Laminaria sp. (P)AlginateGelling and Stabilizing agent, Moisturizer, Chelator[60][61]
24Kjellmaniella crassifoliaFucoidanAntiaging, Antiwrinkle[62]
25Brown algae (P)AlginateThickening agent

Gelling agent		[63]
27Sargassum

vachellianum (P)		PolysaccharidesSkin moisturizer and protectors[64]
28Fucus vesiculosus (Figure 1a),

Laminaria digitata (Figure 1f),

Undaria pinnatifida (Figure 1b) (P)		FucoidanAntioxidant, Antiaging,

Anticoagulant, Increase skin fibroblast formulation		[65][66]
29Ascophyllum nodosum

(Figure 1o) (P)		FucoidanAnti-elastase, gelatinase A inhibition, Inhibition of interleukin-1 beta in fibroblast cells[67]
30Ecklonia cava (P)PhlorotanninsPhotoprotectors against UV-B[68][69]
31Neoporphyra haitanensis,

Gracilaria chouae,

G. blodgetti (R)		AgarAntioxidant,

Thickeners

Antitumor,

Radiation protector,

Antiaging		[70][71]
32Turbinaria conoides (P)
SP, Sulphated Polysaccharides; C, Chlorophyta; R, Rhodophyta; P, Phaeophyceae; * Microalgae.

4. Amino Acids

Protein is considered a macromolecule and polymer of amino acids. Pereira [67] reported the role of amino acids as a natural moisturizing factor that prevents water loss in the skin. Marine macroalgae are a satisfactory resource of various amino acids, such as glycine, alanine, valine, leucine, proline, arginine, serine, histidine, tyrosine, and some other mycosporine amino acids (MAAs). Marine macroalgae derived peptides and amino acids and its skin cosmetic benefits are illustrated in
Protein is considered a macromolecule and polymer of amino acids. Pereira [76] reported the role of amino acids as a natural moisturizing factor that prevents water loss in the skin. Marine macroalgae are a satisfactory resource of various amino acids, such as glycine, alanine, valine, leucine, proline, arginine, serine, histidine, tyrosine, and some other mycosporine amino acids (MAAs). Marine macroalgae derived peptides and amino acids and its skin cosmetic benefits are illustrated in
Table 2. In cosmeceutical products, amino acids usually function as a hydrating agent as a natural moisturizing factor in human skin [73].
. In cosmeceutical products, amino acids usually function as a hydrating agent as a natural moisturizing factor in human skin [93].
C, Chlorophyta; R, Rhodophyta; P, Phaeophyceae.

6. Phenolic Compounds

Phenolic compounds are one of the secondary metabolites that make an important group of components for skin cosmetic benefits. Due to wide varieties of biological actions, they can be incorporated in various skin cosmetic preparations. Theyr can be categorized into simple phenolic compounds and polyphenols, comprising bromophenols, phlorotannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, etc. [122]. Marine macroalgae0derived phenolic compounds and their cosmetic benefits are presented in
C, Chlorophyta; R, Rhodophyta; P, Phaeophyceae.
Phenolic compounds are one of the secondary metabolites that make an important group of components for skin cosmetic benefits. Due to wide varieties of biological actions, they can be incorporated in various skin cosmetic preparations. Theyr can be categorized into simple phenolic compounds and polyphenols, comprising bromophenols, phlorotannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, etc. [169]. Marine macroalgae0derived phenolic compounds and their cosmetic benefits are presented in
Table 4.
.
Table 4.
Applications of macroalgae derived phenolic compounds in skin cosmetics.
No. Name of Macroalgae Phenolic Compound/s Characterization or Analysis of Phenolic Compounds References
C, Chlorophyta; R, Rhodophyta; P, Phaeophyceae.

8. Minerals

Depending on the environment in which macroalgae inhabit, they are highly diversified in mineral composition (especially with regards to trace elements including zinc, magnesium, aluminum, silica, copper, iodine, selenium, iron, manganese, and micronutrients including calcium, sodium, phosphorus, potassium, and chlorine). Minerals have a very essential vital role as cofactors of different metalloenzymes [168]. Moreover, a combination of calcium and magnesium improves barrier repairs in topical skincare products [169]. Indeed, acid-induced burns are relieved by gel solution containing calcium gluconate solution [170]. Likewise, magnesium silicate (talc) and magnesium sulphate (i.e., Epsom salts) have reported enhancement of skin benefits. Talc is most frequently useful in baby skin powders to prevent diaper rash. In adults, it can be used as a lubricant and to reduce wetness in the perineal and axillary areas [171]. In addition, Boisseau et al. [172] found improvements in skin softness and exfoliation, relief in muscle tension, and the promotion of relaxation by Epsom salts. They also reported the key regulatory role of Mg
Depending on the environment in which macroalgae inhabit, they are highly diversified in mineral composition (especially with regards to trace elements including zinc, magnesium, aluminum, silica, copper, iodine, selenium, iron, manganese, and micronutrients including calcium, sodium, phosphorus, potassium, and chlorine).
Minerals have a very essential vital role as cofactors of different metalloenzymes [245]. Moreover, a combination of calcium and magnesium improves barrier repairs in topical skincare products [246]. Indeed, acid-induced burns are relieved by gel solution containing calcium gluconate solution [247]. Likewise, magnesium silicate (talc) and magnesium sulphate (i.e., Epsom salts) have reported enhancement of skin benefits. Talc is most frequently useful in baby skin powders to prevent diaper rash. In adults, it can be used as a lubricant and to reduce wetness in the perineal and axillary areas [248]. In addition, Boisseau et al. [249] found improvements in skin softness and exfoliation, relief in muscle tension, and the promotion of relaxation by Epsom salts. They also reported the key regulatory role of Mg
++
and Ca
++ in the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes. Likewise, magnesium silicate (talc) and magnesium sulphate (Epsom salts) have reported enhancement of skin benefits. Talc is most frequently useful in baby skin powders to prevent diaper rash as well as in adults to reduce wetness in the perineal and axilla areas (and as a lubricant) [173]. They also reported the key regulatory role of Mg
in the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes. Likewise, magnesium silicate (talc) and magnesium sulphate (Epsom salts) have reported enhancement of skin benefits. Talc is most frequently useful in baby skin powders to prevent diaper rash as well as in adults to reduce wetness in the perineal and axilla areas (and as a lubricant) [250]. They also reported the key regulatory role of Mg
++
and Ca
++ in the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes. ZnO-based skin protectants are cost-effective, easily formulated, and stable under aerobic conditions [173][174]. Zinc oxide is superior to zinc sulphate to mitigate inflammation and enhance re-epithelization of partial-thickness porcine skin [175]. Due to low water solubility, it sustains in the skin at the wound site. Newman et al. [176] revealed the importance of skin in sunburned skin and under ultraviolet exposure. Bissett et al. [177] found significantly delayed UV-induced tumors in Guinea pigs and mouse models by topical use of a 2-furildioxime (iron chelator).

9. Summary

Macroalgae are a valuable resource of bioactive components, with scientific evidence revealing their benefits for safer use in humans and wellbeing. Marine algae-derived molecules showed biological effects on the skin, such as skin whitening, antiaging, antiwrinkle, photoprotection, moisturizing, and collagen-boosting, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticellulite, antiviral, and anticancer activities. Moreover, many cosmeceutical companies already use marine algae extracts and have derived compounds from these extracts in their formulations. However, the biochemical profile monitoring of macroalgae presents a problem that industries need to overcome. The development of its cultivation and sustainable methods of extraction procedures shows the significant key for this confined, which is being analyzed with noteworthy benefits. However, more detail analysis requires to understand the exact mechanism of some compounds since some compounds have not been fully explored. Therefore, the further analysis and evaluation are essential to improve the quality of cosmetic formulations which will be useful to enhance consumers safety.
in the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes. ZnO-based skin protectants are cost-effective, easily formulated, and stable under aerobic conditions [250,251]. Zinc oxide is superior to zinc sulphate to mitigate inflammation and enhance re-epithelization of partial-thickness porcine skin [252]. Due to low water solubility, it sustains in the skin at the wound site. Newman et al. [253] revealed the importance of skin in sunburned skin and under ultraviolet exposure. Bissett et al. [254] found significantly delayed UV-induced tumors in Guinea pigs and mouse models by topical use of a 2-furildioxime (iron chelator).

9. Summary

Macroalgae are a valuable resource of bioactive components, with scientific evidence revealing their benefits for safer use in humans and wellbeing. Marine algae-derived molecules showed biological effects on the skin, such as skin whitening, antiaging, antiwrinkle, photoprotection, moisturizing, and collagen-boosting, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticellulite, antiviral, and anticancer activities. Moreover, many cosmeceutical companies already use marine algae extracts and have derived compounds from these extracts in their formulations. However, the biochemical profile monitoring of macroalgae presents a problem that industries need to overcome. The development of its cultivation and sustainable methods of extraction procedures shows the significant key for this confined, which is being analyzed with noteworthy benefits. However, more detail analysis requires to understand the exact mechanism of some compounds since some compounds have not been fully explored. Therefore, the further analysis and evaluation are essential to improve the quality of cosmetic formulations which will be useful to enhance consumers safety.
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