Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

CARRAGEENAN.

Valuable CAS 9000-07-1

A high-performance marine polysaccharide derived from red seaweed that functions as a structural film-former and intensive humectant. It is engineered to provide a breathable 'second skin' barrier that locks in moisture while refining the sensory elegance of advanced skincare formulations.

Summary

Humectant Film-former Viscosity controller Emulsion stabilizer Antioxidant

Science

Mechanism of Action

Carrageenan operates by forming a cohesive, flexible hydrophilic network on the stratum corneum, which physically reduces trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and shields the skin from particulate pollutants. Beyond hydration, its molecular structure allows for the chelation of metal ions like copper and iron, effectively quenching the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and providing secondary anti-inflammatory defense.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.12–10%
Optimal

2%

Key findings

  1. 01 2024 NIH study confirming a 10% concentration significantly restores collagen α-helix structure and accelerates wound healing in inflamed skin.
  2. 02 2022 research review establishing a 0.5%–2% range as optimal for maximizing dermal hydration and emulsion stability.
  3. 03 Clinical trial (NCT04590365) identifying antiviral properties at specific Iota (0.12%) and Kappa (0.04%) ratios by mimicking cell surface receptors.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

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

While often used at low levels (0.1%) purely for texture enhancement, clinical hydration and barrier benefits require concentrations of 0.5% or higher. Concentrations below this threshold effectively stabilize the formula but offer negligible therapeutic value to the skin.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4 – 11
0 7 14

Stability

Maximum stability is achieved near physiological pH (7.4) using salt-stabilized forms (Sodium or Potassium). Specific Kappa and Iota variants require the presence of potassium or calcium ions to initiate gelling.

Synergies

  • Glycerin
  • Hyaluronic Acid
  • Potassium Chloride
  • Calcium Gluconate

Conflicts

  • Cationic surfactants
  • Polyquaterniums
  • Benzalkonium Chloride
  • Strongly acidic environments (pH < 3.0)

Safety

Safety Profile

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

Recognized as GRAS by the FDA. Distinction should be made between cosmetic-grade carrageenan and 'hydrolyzed carrageenan' (poligeenan), the latter of which is not used in Moumoujus formulations due to inflammatory concerns.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
No Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity High

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An exceptional marine-derived humectant and barrier-repair agent, though its high comedogenicity rating requires cautious use in oil-prone or acneic skin protocols.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…