This week, we’re excited to share insight from Sophia Mackay, Head of Research and Development at ishga, who is sharing the incredible skin benefits of algal polysaccharides. Drawing on her extensive scientific knowledge and passion for skincare, Sophia explores how these powerful seaweed-derived compounds help hydrate, protect, and revitalise the skin-making them a hero ingredient in our award-winning formulations.

What Are Polysaccharides?  

Polysaccharides are the largest group of bioactive substances found in brown seaweeds which we harvest from the pure, clean waters of the Outer Hebrides and incorporate into our skincare products. These exceptional compounds are well known for their moisturising and antioxidant properties, resulting in hydrated, glowing skin.

Polysaccharides are compounds made up of many different building blocks which form long carbohydrate chains. In seaweed, polysaccharides are important in the structure of the cell wall and act as energy storing units. Many studies have been published outlining the benefits of  algal polysaccharides when applied to the skin, highlighting their effectiveness and  potential as a natural, organic and environmentally friendly active ingredient in cosmetic products. Our body knows these compounds, allowing algal polysaccharides to interact with our receptors which makes their benefits to our skin durable and long lasting.

As well as delivering hydration to the skin, algal polysaccharides reduce trans-epidermal water loss, helping the skin to retain its moisture and stay hydrated for longer.  

The Power of Polysaccharides 

Polysaccharides derived from seaweed bring a multitude of benefits to your skincare routine. They are known for their antioxidant effects as well as being an effective anti-inflammatory agent.  

Studies have shown their ability to: 

• Hydrate the skin with a lasting effect, helping to maintain moisture levels - Promote collagen production, enhancing supple and smooth skin.
• Reduce and soothe inflammation in the skin, resulting in a bright complexion.
• Provide antioxidant activity, reducing the damaging effects of oxidative stress from the environment.

Polysaccharides from Brown Seaweed  

Some well-known polysaccharides found in brown seaweeds have been studied for their applications in cosmetic products. These include:  

• Fucoidan: A sulphated polysaccharide with a fucose backbone known for its ability to hydrate and increase elasticity in skin cells as well as encourage skin renewal and  regeneration. It is thought that the cosmetic effects of fucoidan was first discovered by accident where a scientist worked with brown seaweed with his bare hands and noticed that his wounds healed quickly.
• Laminarin: Laminarin is a small glucan (a polysaccharide of glucose) known for its anti inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Alginate: A salt of alginic acid. Alginate binds to water which makes it an effective humectant to improve and maintain the skin’s hydration levels. Alginate also creates a protective barrier on the skin and aids in wound healing. 

What Makes Hebridean Seaweed So Effective in Skincare?  

We harvest Hebridean seaweed by hand, after which it undergoes a gentle extraction process to harness the polysaccharides and other bioactive compounds that are good for our skin. We work closely with local authorities to ensure low pollution levels in our sea water and to maintain sustainability in our harvesting methods. Due to harsh island weather conditions and strong current patterns, Hebridean seaweed has evolved to be rich in nutrients to maximise its survival, and our extraction process works to preserve as many of these beneficial components  as possible to apply them to our skincare range.  

Discover our award-winning skincare range, crafted to help your skin thrive naturally.

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