Let’s take a moment for the underdog of the skincare world — seaweed. While it may not traditionally stand out as a superfood skincare ingredient, it’s one of the most nutrient-dense, hydration-promoting ingredients nature has to offer.
We discovered this miracle ingredient in working with our lab chemists and a local sustainable harvester of seaweed. Together, they hand collect the seaweed off the Coast of Vancouver Island, distill it into a botanical essence that can be easily applied to, and absorbed by the skin. It’s powerful, it’s rare — and it’s exclusive to us.
What Is Mazzaella Japonica?
Mazzaella japonica is a red seaweed found in cold, pristine coastal waters. Unlike other common algae used in skincare, this one is particularly rich in bioactive compounds like phycoerythrin, carrageenans, and natural humectants — all of which support hydrated, calm, and radiant skin. Think of it as nature’s answer to dewy, post-dip glow.
The Science-Backed Skincare Benefits of Red Algae
Research on seaweed extracts continues to grow, and for good reason. Studies have shown that red algae varieties like Mazzaella japonica contain:
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Antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and premature aging
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Humectants that draw moisture deep into the skin, helping to plump and smooth
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Sulfated polysaccharides (like carrageenans) that strengthen the skin barrier and reduce water loss
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Anti-inflammatory properties that help calm redness and irritation — perfect for sensitive or reactive skin
One study even found that marine algae extracts can increase skin hydration by over 14%, while significantly reducing transepidermal water loss(Source: PubMed 23752034).
Why Mazzaella Japonica Is Exclusive to Us
We didn’t just pick any seaweed — we partnered with local harvesters to source Mazzaella japonica responsibly from the Pacific Northwest. It’s harvested sustainably and in small batches to protect marine biodiversity and ensure purity from ocean to bottle.
We call it our Maris Element — a marine botanical blend anchored by Mazzaella japonica, and you won’t find it anywhere else. It’s what gives our product its lightweight hydration, fresh glow, and signature clean feel.
Better for You, Better for the Planet
Unlike synthetic moisturizers or petrochemical-based ingredients, red algae is biodegradable, renewable, and low-impact to produce. Our small-batch, local production model also reduces carbon emissions and keeps our environmental footprint light. Not only is the ingredient itself natural and biodegradable, but the process of removing the seaweed is non-invasive and sustainable, by collecting it from discarded beach wrack upon the coastline. The mazzaella japonica seaweed is not a native seaweed to the Pacific Northwest, and is known to be invasive. The harvesting of mazzaella japonica for our product line helps to revive some of the native species of seaweed along the coast.
Final Splash
Mazzaella japonica is the underdog superpower ingredient that we've been looking for. It's is local and sustainable, and helps build back your skin barrier so you can get back to living the life you want to live. Inspired by nature and backed by science, we know that with this special ingredient, your skin will be ready for whatever the day brings you.
Ready to dive in? Your skin (and the sea) will thank you.