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CALCIUM ALGINATE.

Valuable CAS 9005-35-0 / FRAGRANCE, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

A sophisticated marine-derived polysaccharide that functions as a structural biopolymer and a biological skin-repair catalyst. It is uniquely engineered to transition into a nutrient-rich, moisture-locking gel upon contact with skin surface electrolytes.

Viscosity controlling Gelling agent Skin protectant Barrier repair catalyst Hemostatic agent

Science

Calcium Alginate functions through a precise ion-exchange mechanism. When applied to the skin, it absorbs sodium ions from surface moisture, causing the insoluble calcium fibers to convert into a hydrophilic sodium alginate gel. This process creates a controlled-release system that delivers calcium ions (0.9 mM) directly to the epidermis, which is essential for maintaining the calcium gradient required for barrier restoration, keratinocyte differentiation, and fibroblast metabolic signaling.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 1–50%
Optimal

10%

Key findings

  1. 01 A randomized controlled trial demonstrated that calcium alginate facilitated a 70% complete healing rate by day 10 compared to 33% in control groups, highlighting its superior regenerative properties.
  2. 02 Research using lyophilized algae-calcium matrices confirmed the release of 0.9 mM of calcium ions into the skin, significantly boosting epidermal barrier repair and cellular differentiation.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.5%
Red flag below
0.1%

Because calcium alginate is often used as a primary gelling agent in peel-off masks at high concentrations (up to 50%), it is rarely 'dusted' in those formats. However, in liquid serums, it may be included at sub-therapeutic levels (<0.1%) merely for viscosity or label claims without providing meaningful calcium ion release.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

Inherently insoluble but forms stable suspensions or gels. Stability is compromised by extreme pH shifts which can precipitate alginic acid.

Synergies

  • Sodium Hyaluronate
  • Glycerin
  • Mineral-rich thermal waters

Conflicts

  • Chelating agents like EDTA
  • Sodium Polyphosphate
  • High-concentration sodium salts
  • Strongly acidic formulations (pH <4.0)

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
50%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Affirmed as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the FDA. It is non-toxic and widely utilized in medical-grade wound care.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

An exceptional multi-functional ingredient that provides both physical structural benefits and essential mineral signaling for advanced barrier repair.


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