Algin
What Algin is & what it does
Algin, also known as sodium alginate, is a polysaccharide derived from brown seaweed. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it works mainly as a thickener, film former, and gelling agent that helps stabilize the texture and improve how a product spreads. A notable property is its strong gel-forming ability, which is why alginates are also widely used in peel-off and rubber-style masks.
What does Algin do in skincare?
Algin, also called sodium alginate, is a seaweed-derived polysaccharide used in skincare and sunscreen as a thickener and gelling agent. It helps stabilize the texture of a formula and improve how it spreads. Its strong gel-forming ability also makes it a common base for peel-off and rubber-style masks.
Is Algin natural or synthetic?
Algin is a naturally derived ingredient, extracted from brown seaweed. It is a plant-based polysaccharide rather than a lab-synthesized polymer. This natural origin is one reason it is popular in seaweed-themed and naturally positioned products.
Is Algin safe?
Algin is widely used in cosmetics and also in food, and is generally considered safe and well tolerated. As a large, seaweed-derived molecule it tends to stay on the skin surface rather than penetrate. Individual sensitivities are possible but uncommon for this type of ingredient.
Sunscreens with Algin
We rate 51 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:
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colibri skincare Daily SPF 50+ Moisturizer
96/100
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Bionike Age UV Specialist SPF 50+
94/100
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Bielenda Cera Lipidium Multiceramide Nourishing Barrier Cream SPF 50
93/100
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Cliniderm Age Defence Sun Face Cream Spf50
91/100
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ACO Sun Face Cream Age Defence 50 SPF
91/100
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Lierac Sunissime Protective BB Fluid SPF 50+
89/100
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Topicrem Hydra+ Radiance Tinted Cream SPF 40 PA++++
89/100
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Ecooking Face Sunscreen SPF 30 Without Perfume
88/100
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Heliocare 360 Age Active Fluid Spf 50
88/100
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Lierac Sunissime Protective BB Fluid SPF 30
88/100