What it is
Cetraria islandica, commonly called Iceland moss, is actually a lichen native to cold northern regions. Its extract is rich in mucilaginous polysaccharides that can hold water and form a soft film on the skin. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it is used as a conditioning and soothing botanical that helps the skin feel calm and comfortable.
Safety & warnings
Botanical lichen extracts are generally well tolerated at the low levels used in cosmetics. As with any plant-derived material, sensitive individuals can occasionally react, so patch testing may be prudent for very reactive skin.
Origin & sourcing
It is a natural extract obtained from the Iceland moss lichen, Cetraria islandica.
Questions everyone asks
What is Iceland moss extract?
It is a cosmetic extract from Cetraria islandica, a lichen, valued for its water-binding polysaccharides and soothing feel.
What does it do in a sunscreen?
It serves as a conditioning and soothing botanical that helps the skin feel calm and comfortable.