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Chondrus Crispus

What Chondrus Crispus is & what it does

Chondrus Crispus, also known as Irish moss or carrageenan moss, is a red seaweed extract used in cosmetic and sunscreen formulas. It acts as a natural gelling and thickening agent, helping to give creams and lotions a smooth, stable texture. The extract is rich in polysaccharides that can also help skin hold onto moisture, contributing to a soft, hydrated feel.

What does Chondrus Crispus do in skincare?

Chondrus Crispus, a red seaweed extract, works mainly as a natural thickener and gelling agent that gives creams and gels a smooth, stable texture. It is also rich in polysaccharides that can help skin hold onto water, contributing to a hydrated, soft feel. In sunscreens and moisturizers it supports both the texture and the conditioning of the formula.

Is Chondrus Crispus natural or synthetic?

Chondrus Crispus is a natural ingredient, derived from a red seaweed commonly called Irish moss. The seaweed is harvested and processed into an extract used in cosmetics. Because its source is a plant-like marine organism rather than an animal, it is generally suitable for plant-based formulations.

Is Chondrus Crispus vegan?

Chondrus Crispus comes from a red seaweed, so the ingredient itself is plant-derived and not sourced from animals. This makes it broadly compatible with vegan formulations. As always, a product's full vegan status also depends on the rest of its ingredients and the brand's sourcing practices.

Sunscreens with Chondrus Crispus

We rate 14 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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