What it is
This ingredient is an extract of Gelidium cartilagineum, a red seaweed in the same genus used to produce agar. It supplies naturally occurring polysaccharides and minerals that can help condition the skin and support a smooth surface feel. In a sunscreen it functions as a supporting marine botanical rather than as a UV filter.
Safety & warnings
Red algae extracts are generally well tolerated in cosmetic use and are not recognized as common comedogenic ingredients. Individuals with known sensitivities to marine-derived ingredients may wish to take usual care.
Origin & sourcing
The extract is naturally sourced from the red seaweed Gelidium cartilagineum, harvested from the sea.
Questions everyone asks
What kind of seaweed is Gelidium cartilagineum?
It is a red algae in the genus best known as the source of agar; here its extract is used as a skin-conditioning botanical.
Does this extract filter UV light?
No. It is a conditioning ingredient and does not provide sun protection on its own.