17 September 2025
Brown Algae
Brown algae offer a wide range of benefits for your skin and have earned their place in many skincare formulas. In this article, you’ll learn what makes them so effective and how you can incorporate them into your routine.
This is what we will be exploring in this article:
This is what we will be exploring in this article:
What are brown algae?
Brown algae belong to the group of multicellular algae known as Phaeophyceae. They thrive in cool, nutrient-rich coastal waters. Their brown color comes from the pigment fucoxanthin, which masks the green tint of chlorophyll also present in the algae. Although they perform photosynthesis, brown algae are not considered plants. Depending on the species, brown algae can be tiny or reach impressive lengths - up to 60 meters in the case of giant kelp (Macrocystis).
What makes brown algae so effective in skincare?
Brown algae contain a unique mix of bioactive compounds that set them apart from other algae types, making them a true powerhouse in skincare. At DALTON, we use algae in many of our products, with brown algae in particular offering a wide range of benefits for the skin.
Fucoidan
This sulfated polysaccharide offers numerous benefits for stressed, mature or inflamed skin. It supports cell regeneration, promoting wound healing and skin renewal. Its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce redness and irritation, while its hydrating properties help the skin retain moisture. It can also boost collagen production.
Alginates
Extracted from the cell walls of brown algae, alginates are gel-forming polysaccharides used in cosmetics for their skin benefits as well as their texturizing properties, serving as natural thickening and gelling agents. They bind moisture and form a watery film that provides long-lasting hydration to the skin. In addition, alginates have a soothing and detoxifying effect.
Phlorotannins
As polyphenolic antioxidants, phlorotannins offer strong protection against oxidative stress. They are photoprotective and act as a natural UV shield at the cellular level. Their antibacterial properties make them especially helpful for acne- and blemish-prone skin.
Laminarin
Laminarin is a storage polysaccharide that is especially abundant in species of the Laminaria genus, such as Laminaria digitata and Laminaria japonica. It promotes cell and skin regeneration and strengthens the skin’s natural immune defenses. Its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals, while its hydrating effect helps prevent water loss. Laminarin can also soothe irritated skin and reduce redness.
Minerals & trace elements
Brown algae are rich in essential nutrients like iodine, magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc, which help remineralize the skin, strengthen the skin barrier, balance pH levels, boost cellular activity and support detoxification.
Brown algae are suitable for all skin types and a wide range of skincare needs. They can be an effective solution for blemish-prone skin, dullness, redness, fine lines and a weakened skin barrier.
✔ Hydrating
✔ Anti-inflammatory
✔ Antioxidant
✔ Detoxifying
✔ Promote skin regeneration
Types of brown algae and their benefits
Laminaria digitata (oarweed)
- Deeply hydrating
- Detoxifying effect
- Rich in iodine, calcium and magnesium
- Promotes regeneration and soothes the skin
➤ Laminaria digitata is featured in the following products: PHA Exfoliant and Aloe Vera Gel Mask
Fucus vesiculosus (bladderwrack)
- Stimulates cellular metabolism
- Helps reduce water retention due to high iodine content
- Antioxidant
- Firms and smooths the skin
➤ Fucus vesiculosus is featured in the following products: Oxygen Bubble Mask and Anti-Aging BB Cream
Laminaria japonica (Japanese kelp)
- Hydrating and remineralizing thanks to alginate, iodine and magnesium
- Promotes regeneration and soothes the skin
- Detoxifying and metabolism-boosting properties
- Balances sebum production
➤ Laminaria japonica is featured in the following product: Triple Hyaluronic Booster
Alaria esculenta (wing kelp)
- Stimulates collagen and elastin production
- Protects against oxidative stress
- Hydrates and revitalizes the skin
- Promotes cell renewal
➤ Alaria esculenta is featured in the following products: Nourishing Lip Balm, Combination Skin Moisturizer, Q10 Cream, Glow Face Oil and Body Firming Serum
Laminaria ochroleuca (golden kelp)
- Soothing and anti-inflammatory
- Strengthens the skin barrier
- Antioxidant
- Helps regulate the skin's moisture balance
➤ Laminaria ochroleuca is featured in the following products: 5 Ceramide Serum and Daily Ultralight Sun Fluid 50+
Macrocystis pyrifera (giant kelp)
- Stimulates cell renewal, helping to protect the skin from premature aging
- Supports hydration and improves skin elasticity
- Smoothing and firming
- Antioxidant
➤ Macrocystis pyrifera is featured in the following product: #nofilterneeded Ampoules
Three powerful ingredient combinations with brown algae
Algae pair exceptionally well with other active ingredients, making them a versatile choice for developing targeted and effective skincare solutions. Here are our favorite brown algae combos:
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Brown algae + hyaluronic acid: This duo is a hydration powerhouse. Alginates lock in moisture, while hyaluronic acid delivers deep hydration and plumps the skin. Our Triple Hyaluronic Booster takes hydration to the next level by combining three different types of hyaluronic acid for intense, long-lasting moisture.
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Brown algae + neroli and aloe vera: This trio combines hydration, soothing care and detoxifying power. Our Oxygen Bubble Mask is formulated with all three ingredients to leave your skin looking fresh and revitalized.
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Brown algae + PHAs: Brown algae hydrate, soothe and strengthen the skin while offering antioxidant benefits. PHAs provide gentle exfoliation by removing dead skin cells without causing irritation. This powerful synergy forms the basis of our PHA Exfoliant.
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