Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract operates through multiple synergistic pathways to enhance skin vitality. It significantly reduces oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties to soothe irritated skin. Rich in hydrophilic groups, it enhances skin hydration by effectively binding water and reinforcing the natural moisture barrier. Furthermore, it supports anti-aging by inhibiting elastase activity and promoting healthy collagen deposition. Its ability to inhibit tyrosinase also contributes to skin brightening, alongside its role in promoting damaged cell renewal and supporting wound healing through the TGF-β/Smads pathway.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidence1%
Key findings
- 01 In a mouse melanoma cell line study, a 1% glycoprotein fraction from sea cucumber significantly inhibited tyrosinase activity by 50.84% and elastase activity by 28.78%, indicating considerable potential for skin brightening and wrinkle reduction without cytotoxicity up to 10 mg/mL.
- 02 A topical skin cream containing 1 gram of sea cucumber extract demonstrated notable radical scavenging activity ranging from 57% to 70% and nitric oxide scavenging from 25% to 49%, indicating strong antioxidant benefits without causing skin irritation.
- 03 In vitro tests on HaCaT cell lines showed that sea cucumber hydrolysates at concentrations up to 0.1% effectively provided UV-B protective and antioxidant activities.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Based on in vitro studies, concentrations as low as 0.1% have demonstrated observable UV-B protective and antioxidant activities. While higher concentrations show more pronounced effects for specific benefits like tyrosinase and elastase inhibition, formulations using less than 0.1% may not deliver meaningful benefits, potentially indicating a dusting application for marketing claims rather than genuine efficacy.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
The ingredient exhibits excellent pH stability, maintaining its integrity across a broad range of pH 3-11, with optimal enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency observed around neutral pH (6.0-8.0, particularly pH 7.0). It is also considered heat stable.
Safety
Safety Profile
Regulatory bodies such as CIR and SCCS have not yet assessed Hydrolyzed Sea Cucumber Extract, and it is not explicitly listed as an FDA-approved cosmetic ingredient. However, comprehensive in vitro and topical studies consistently report no skin or ocular irritation, and no cytotoxicity was observed at concentrations up to 1%. The ingredient generally conforms to industry standards for purity, stability, and microbiological safety.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Hydrolyzed Sea Cucumber Extract is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, offering a broad spectrum of scientifically supported benefits from anti-aging and brightening to intense hydration and protection, with a low reported risk of irritation based on current studies.
Related
Similar Ingredients
Finding similar ingredients…
References
Sources