Science
Mechanism of Action
Sargassum horneri powder, primarily through its active components found in various extracts, exerts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin barrier repair mechanisms. Its antioxidant action includes inhibiting UVA- and UVB-induced oxidative stress and photoaging, enhancing intracellular antioxidant defenses by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway, and directly scavenging free radicals such as DPPH and ABTS. For inflammation, it suppresses Th2-mediated cytokine IL-13, inhibits mast cell proliferation, decreases TSLP expression, and reduces dermal infiltration of inflammatory cells. Additionally, it down-regulates pro-inflammatory cytokines including PGE2, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, as well as the expression of iNOS and COX-2 proteins, through inhibition of NF-κB activation. Regarding skin barrier function, it boosts the expression of proteins vital for skin moisture, such as involucrin and filaggrin, and improves tight junction proteins like occludin, thereby reducing transepidermal water loss and promoting skin hydration.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 In vitro studies using a 70% ethanolic extract of S. horneri, at concentrations up to 100 µg/mL, demonstrated no discernible toxicity and significantly inhibited nitrites and pro-inflammatory cytokines (PGE2, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β) in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. It also decreased iNOS and COX-2 protein expression and inhibited NF-κB binding.
- 02 A compound, (-)-loliode, isolated from S. horneri hydromethanolic extract, effectively prevented oxidative damage in HaCaT models and Human Dermal Fibroblast cells, with the greatest effect observed at 25 mg/mL in vitro.
- 03 A clinical study reported that a fucoidan-rich S. horneri extract (SHFE) lotion improved skin barrier function on forearms and decreased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) values after three weeks of use, compared to a placebo. The exact SHFE concentration in the lotion was not specified.
- 04 Oral administration of S. horneri ethanol extract at 10, 50, and 100 mg/kg attenuated atopic dermatitis symptoms, including skin dermatitis severity, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and ear edema in HDM/DNCB-stimulated NC/Nga mice.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Active components are soluble in both ethanol and water, with evidence of partitioning into n-hexane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate, suggesting a range of polarities. For related species, maltodextrin has been utilized as a stabilizer during freeze-drying to enhance powder stability and reduce water content.
Safety
Safety Profile
The CIR Expert Panel assessed Sargassum horneri extract as safe for use in cosmetics. While specific safety data for the 'powder' form is not explicitly detailed, it is derived from the same source. No specific maximum concentration for cosmetic use, FDA status, or SCCS opinion were reported in the provided research data.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Sargassum horneri powder is a valuable ingredient, demonstrating potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin barrier-enhancing benefits, making it particularly suitable for dry, sensitive, and aging skin types.
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References
Sources