Cosmeceutical Significance of Seaweed: A Focus on Carbohydrates and Peptides in Skin Applications
Haresh S. Kalasariya,
Carlos Eliel Maya-Ramírez,
João Cotas,
Leonel Pereira
Affiliations
Haresh S. Kalasariya
Centre for Natural Products Discovery, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
Carlos Eliel Maya-Ramírez
Laboratorio de Diagnóstico Molecular, Departamento de Bioquímica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Carpio y Plan de Ayala S/N, Colonia, Casco de Santo Tomás, Ciudad de México C.P. 11340, Mexico
João Cotas
Marine Resources, Conservation and Technology, Marine Algae Lab, CFE—Centre for Functional Ecology: Science for People & Planet, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
Leonel Pereira
Marine Resources, Conservation and Technology, Marine Algae Lab, CFE—Centre for Functional Ecology: Science for People & Planet, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
The term ‘cosmeceutical’ refers to cosmetic products that offer medicinal or drug-like benefits. Marine algae are rich sources of bioactive compounds, particularly carbohydrates and peptides, which have gained attention for their potential in cosmeceuticals. These compounds are abundant, safe, and have minimal cytotoxicity effects. They offer various benefits to the skin, including addressing rashes, pigmentation, aging, and cancer. Additionally, they exhibit properties such as antimicrobial, skin-whitening, anti-aging, antioxidant, and anti-melanogenic effects. This review surveys the literature on the cosmeceutical potentials of algae-derived compounds, focusing on their roles in skin whitening, anti-aging, anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial applications. The discussion also includes current challenges and future opportunities for using algae for cosmeceutical purposes.
