Science
Mechanism of Action
The complex extract of Enteromorpha Prolifera and Sargassum Horneri operates through multiple pathways to enhance skin vitality. Sargassum horneri actively diminishes oxidative stress by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibiting tyrosinase activity to manage melanogenesis, and boosting cell viability. Its potent anti-inflammatory effects stem from inhibiting nitrites and key pro-inflammatory cytokines, including PGE-2, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, while simultaneously decreasing the expression of iNOS and COX-2 proteins. Furthermore, it modulates inflammatory cascades by inhibiting the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, ERK, and NF-κB. For dermal repair, Sargassum horneri accelerates re-epithelialization, promotes F-actin formation, and regulates hyperinflammation, supporting wound healing. It also reinforces the skin barrier by restoring filaggrin levels and can mitigate atopic dermatitis-like symptoms. Enteromorpha prolifera complements these actions with its strong antioxidant potential, attributed to sulfated polysaccharides, alongside demonstrated antibacterial and additional anti-inflammatory properties.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Sargassum horneri extract demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, evidenced by increased reducing power in a concentration range from 0.5 mg/mL to 4 mg/mL.
- 02 Sargassum horneri extract effectively inhibited levels of nitrites and key pro-inflammatory cytokines (PGE-2, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β), and decreased iNOS and COX-2 protein expression at concentrations between 50 μg/mL and 100 μg/mL.
- 03 Sargassum horneri extract was found to be non-cytotoxic to BV-2 microglial cells at concentrations up to 300 μg/mL and exhibited a dose-dependent reduction in NO production.
- 04 A crude extract of Enteromorpha species produced an 18 mm inhibitory zone against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli at 200 μL/ml, indicating antibacterial activity, and demonstrated an 81 ± 0.5% free radical scavenging effect at 400 μL/ml.
- 05 A crude ethanolic extract of Enteromorpha compressa exhibited 49.0% antioxidant activity at concentrations of 100 μg/mL and 200 μg/mL.
- 06 A complex extract combining Sargassum horneri and Enteromorpha prolifera showed antioxidant activity and did not demonstrate toxicity for cell viability on animal or human-derived cells, although specific concentrations were not detailed.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Current research data does not suggest this ingredient is commonly included in formulations at sub-efficacious, 'dusting' percentages, nor is a specific dusting threshold identified.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Expected to exhibit good solubility and dispersibility in aqueous and hydro-alcoholic systems, consistent with typical water or ethanol-based extraction processes. An enzyme assay for Sargassum horneri extract has been successfully performed at pH 8.5.
Safety
Safety Profile
While Sargassum Horneri Extract has been affirmed as safe for cosmetic applications by the CIR Expert Panel, Enteromorpha prolifera Extract, classified as a green algae, lacks specific coverage in prior brown algae safety assessments. Consequently, the combined 'ENTEROMORPHA PROLIFERA/SARGASSUM HORNERI EXTRACT' currently has insufficient data for a comprehensive CIR conclusion. No specific SCCS or FDA status was found for this precise combined extract.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
This extract presents a valuable profile with strong in vitro evidence for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-conditioning benefits across various concentrations; however, comprehensive safety data for the specific combined extract remains insufficient for a definitive regulatory conclusion.
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References
Sources