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Algae Extract

What Algae Extract is & what it does

A general marine algae extract rich in minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants that hydrates and conditions skin. It supports a smooth, replenished feel.

What is Algae Extract and what does it do in sunscreen?

Algae Extract is a general marine extract from seaweed or algae, rich in minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. In a sunscreen it works as a conditioning botanical: it hydrates the skin and supports a smooth, replenished feel. It is added for skin care benefits rather than for UV protection itself.

Is Algae Extract safe?

Yes. Algae Extract is a widely used marine botanical with a long history in cosmetics and is well tolerated by most people. As with any plant or marine extract, those with known sensitivities can patch test first, but it is not associated with notable irritation at the levels used in skincare.

Does Algae Extract clog pores?

It is debatable. Algae Extract sits in a disputed zone on comedogenicity: some sources flag certain algae or seaweed extracts as worth watching for very acne-prone skin, while many formulas use it without issue. Reactions depend a lot on the specific extract and how much is used, so breakout-prone users may want to patch test a new product.

Is Algae Extract comedogenic?

Its comedogenic status is not settled. Algae Extract is sometimes listed as a watch-it ingredient for clog-prone skin, but it is not a strong, well-documented pore-clogger like some heavy oils. If your skin is sensitive to breakouts, treat it as one to test rather than to avoid outright.

Is Algae Extract natural?

Yes. Algae Extract is derived from marine algae or seaweed, so it is a natural, plant-based ingredient. It is processed into an extract for use in skincare, but its source is the algae itself.

Sunscreens with Algae Extract

We rate 100 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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