Why ocean-derived skincare is making waves this summer

As the clock strikes summer, we’re all in dire need of 'vitamin Sea', and so is our skin. The vast scapes and the mysteries of the marine world have more than what meets the eye. When we thought scientific ingredients were taking over, nature called—marine ingredients are here to seas the day. If all the rave reviews are believed, the beauty underwater is enough to revamp your skincare regime this summer.

THE MAESTROS

‘Less gloss, more grit’ is the reigning memo in skincare lately, and something tells me marine extracts resonate well with it. “Marine skincare brings natural ingredients with truly potent effects and combines them with the latest advancements in skincare science. Ingredients like seaweed, algae, and marine collagen, antioxidants, and amino acids deeply hydrate, effectively repair, and strongly protect the skin,” shares Radhika Ghai, Founder and CEO, Kindlife. If a mere stroll by the beach flashes a glimpse of slow living before me, I can’t begin to fathom what wonders the underwater world holds. “What I find beautiful is that marine skincare invites you to slow down—to reconnect with the rhythm of your skin, and in a place like India, where skincare has to be more than just cosmetic, marine ingredients are a timely evolution,” says Prachi Bhandari, Co-founder, Aminu Skincare.

THE SKIN TRIAL

If I had spent a dime every time I analysed the ingredients that best suit my skin, I’d be a millionaire by now, said every skin enthusiast. No matter the traction or the efficacy of a trend, skincare will never not be personal. Likewise, despite their versatility, marine extracts are undergoing critical analysis, and to say the least, the verdict is in favour. “For dry or dehydrated skin, marine actives like algae and seaweed deeply hydrate and replenish lost minerals, improving moisture retention. Oily or acne-prone skin benefits from the anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects of marine botanicals as they help regulate sebum production,” shares Dr Geetika Mittal Gupta, founder, ISAAC LUXE. She adds that sensitive or reactive skin types respond well to marine ingredients due to their soothing, barrier-strengthening properties. “Mature skin can also benefit significantly from marine peptides and marine collagen, which support skin firmness, elasticity, and overall regeneration,” she adds.

INDIA, THE PERFECT PLAYGROUND

We have to hand it to India for its firm stance on the global stage. Be it luxury fashion or beauty, global recognition is already here. The Indian beauty market is thriving and how—brands are seeking the stamp of approval from Indian consumers, and you can blame it on our inquisitive selves. “India is a perfect playground for experimenting with skincare ingredients. Over the past few years, Indian consumers have become much more aware, they’re no longer satisfied with just promises—they want to know exactly what’s in the bottle and what results it will deliver. The beauty of the Indian market is that there’s a genuine willingness to experiment, which makes it an ideal environment for brands to innovate and push boundaries,” remarks Romita Mazumdar, founder and chief executive officer, Foxtale.

INGREDIENTS IN SIGHT

While we debate over whether the market is saturated yet, several riches of the sea are sneaking into our skincare routines. No matter the questionable look and feel, marine ingredients are getting a nod from the Indian consumer—they’re leading the way by a heavy margin, one groundbreaking ingredient at a time. “In addition to algae extracts and seaweed, marine collagen is another standout ingredient, prized for its high absorption rate and anti-ageing benefits. Spirulina, a nutrient-dense microalgae, supports detoxification and brightening while plankton extracts strengthen the skin barrier and improve overall resilience,” informs Dr Mittal.

Now that the secrets of the sea are all out in the open—take a plunge into the realm of marine skincare and bask in the beauty of the unknown.

Lead image credit: Getty

All images: Courtesy the brands

This article first appeared in the April-May print issue of Harper's Bazaar India

 

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