The Benefits of Sea Moss for Skin

While wellness enthusiasts have been fans of adding sea moss to their smoothies for decades, it's also become an increasingly popular skincare ingredient. Still, given the fact that a new "skincare savior" seems to pop up every time we blink, we can't help but grow a bit wary of the purported benefits of sea moss for skin.

That's why we turned to dermatologist Karen Hammerman, M.D., to give us the full scoop on this buzzy marine ingredient—and whether it lives up to the hype. And what, exactly, is that hype? Well, many advocates of this ingredient say that it's chock-full of antioxidants to help fight signs of aging. The National Eczema Association also reports that sea moss boasts antifungal and antiviral properties, which can help curb inflammation.

Meet the expert

Karen Hammerman, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Garden City, New York.

Keep reading for our expert-approved guide to sea moss, its skincare benefits, and how to incorporate it into your routine.

What Is Sea Moss?

Sea moss, also commonly known as Irish moss, is an algae found along the Atlantic coasts of North America and Europe with high vitamin and mineral content. It can be ingested or applied topically. Regarding the former, sea moss gel is used in traditional drinks and food in the Caribbean and Ireland. Historically, it's been used as a remedy for everything from coughs to low libido. It's also a popular skincare ingredient thanks to its myriad benefits (more on those below).

Benefits of Sea Moss for Skin

• Soothes irritation: Since it's high in minerals and vitamins, sea moss can be soothing for inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
• Can improve acne-prone and oily skin: "Due to a high sulfur content, sea moss has antibacterial, antiviral, and antimicrobial functions, and it is therefore believed to help with balancing the skin microbiome," says Dr. Hammerman. "The high sulfur content can also decrease the excessive sebum production in the skin. Together with the antibacterial effect on P. Acnes bacteria [which causes acne], it may help reduce the severity of acne in people who suffer from this condition."
• Minimizes signs of aging: Thanks to its hydrating properties, sea moss can wield anti-aging benefits and even address winter dryness. "Sea moss may also help reduce wrinkles, hydrate the skin, and protect from environmental elements because it contains essential elements that make up the human body, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin K," Dr. Hammerman adds.

Who It's For

Doing a patch test or consulting your dermatologist is always the safest action before trying any new product. That being said, Dr. Hammerman says sensitive skin types may experience some irritation from sea moss—especially if you're attempting a DIY product, like a mask.

How to Use

Speaking of homemade remedies, save yourself time and mess. It's better to experience sea moss in a professional, pre-made formula because the ingredient will be quality sourced. "Seaweeds can accumulate toxic heavy metals such as cadmium, mercury, lead, and arsenic, so sourcing of the ingredient matters," Dr. Hammerman says.

It's also important to note that if "organic" is on the label, it doesn't necessarily mean the product is better than other options. "Many sea moss products are labeled as organic. However, this term is used very loosely in skincare as the FDA has not defined it regarding topical products," Dr. Hammerman explains. "It is unclear whether products with organic sea moss extract are any more effective or any safer than one not labeled as organic."

The dermatologist says that rather than use pure sea moss, look for a well-formulated product that combines it with other ingredients to get maximum benefits and optimal results.

Sea Moss Skincare Products

Lush Breath of Fresh Air Toner Water

This refreshing pick-me-up soothes and cleanses the skin, whether you use it as a mid-day mist or a toner. Along with sea moss, Lush has infused it with a blend of sea-inspired ingredients—including seawater, aloe vera gel, and rose absolute. This toner is best for folks with dry or combination skin given its hydrating formula.

Sonya Dakar Omega Polish and Activator Duo

Sonya Dakar's two-step treatment covers both physical and chemical exfoliation in any routine. When mixed with the gel, the polish's micro-ground flax, oats, rice, and other grains transform into a gentle paste that also acts as a mask and peel. If you like to keep your routine simple, this two-step combo is probably not for you.

Tata Harper Crème Riche

This thick cream is the ideal addition to winter nighttime skincare routines. It offers extreme hydration and promotes the production of your skin's own moisturizers. Plus, it treats visible signs of aging.

Osea Red Algae Mask

Red algae (where sea moss comes from) is the star of Osea's multitasking face mask, which draws excess oil and impurities from the skin while simultaneously strengthening its barrier to prevent dryness. Because this formula is so well-balanced, it's good for any skin type; meaning, you can use this if you have blemish-prone, combination, normal, or oily skin.

Serumkind Iceland Moss Drop

Also known as Iceland moss, this sea moss-powered serum replenishes and soothes dry, irritated skin. Add it to your skincare routine for an extra layer of hydration, or boost your favorite moisturizer with a couple of drops.

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