What it is
Ecklonia cava extract is derived from an edible brown alga common in East Asian coastal waters. It is valued in cosmetics for its content of phlorotannins and other marine polyphenols, which are positioned as antioxidants, and it also contributes conditioning and hydrating properties. It appears frequently in Korean skin care and sunscreens as a botanical, antioxidant-focused ingredient.
Safety & warnings
Generally well tolerated in topical products. As a marine botanical extract, individuals with seaweed or marine allergies may wish to use caution. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; an extract of the brown seaweed Ecklonia cava (known as gamtae in Korean and kajime in Japanese), harvested from coastal waters and processed into a cosmetic extract.
Questions everyone asks
What is Ecklonia cava?
It is an edible brown seaweed from East Asian waters whose extract is used in skin care mainly for its antioxidant polyphenols.
What does it do in skin care?
It is used as an antioxidant and skin-conditioning ingredient and can help support hydration.