Chapter 16 - Cosmeceuticals from algae

Abstract

Globally, cosmetic products are widely used by consumers to protect the skin from external environmental stress factors and for beauty purposes. A recent trend toward natural cosmetics is gaining more attention due to the harmful effects of synthetic ingredients. The cosmetics sector uses the term “cosmeceutical” to refer to a cosmetic formulation that has drug-like applications. Recently, marine macroalgae have gained more attention as a source of natural ingredients for cosmeceutical preparations. Many species of seaweed are richer in bioactive constituents that have been noted to exhibit high potential skin benefits, mainly for skin whitening, antiaging, antiwrinkle, moisturizer, antioxidants, photoprotection, and antimicrobial uses. The present chapter gives a detailed focus on the cosmetic potentials of marine macroalgae-derived polysaccharides, lipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, amino acids, pigments, and minerals. We present an overview of different species of macroalgae with their efficient bioactive constituents and highly potential cosmetic benefits. In addition, the current status and challenges of the seaweed-derived bioactive components in cosmetic products are briefly discussed.