Should sunscreens be formulated with red algae?

Sunscreens provide sun protection against UVA and UVB rays, which can reduce the risk of skin cancer, keep the skin tone more even and protect against some visible skins of premature aging.

In 2015, Mercurio, et al. tested the effects of combining red algae extracts with UV filters. The effects of the formulations were evaluated by determining the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and erythema index. Apoptosis was detected by immunohistochemical staining with anti-p53 and anti-caspase-3 antibodies. The application of all formulations studied resulted in a statistically significant reduction in the expression of p53 and caspase-3, with a more pronounced effect observed following treatment with UV filters alongside red algae extracts. The combination of vitamins A, E, C and ginkgo biloba along with red algae extracts can improve significantly the performance of the sunscreens, preventing UV-induced DNA damage and inflammation. Thus, they should be considered an interesting combination for an effective photoprotective formulation with anti-aging properties. In conclusion, extracts from the red algae P. umbilicalis could be considered effective ingredients to be used in sunscreen formulations.

If you would like to read the whole study, it is available here.

Mercurio, D.G., et al., (2015). In vivo photoprotective effects of cosmetic formulations containing UV filters, vitamins, Ginkgo biloba and red algae extracts. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology. Volume 153, p.121-126.