Seaweeds are some of the most useful ingredients the ocean offers. Our red algae comes from the cold waters of the Baltic Sea region.
What Is Red Algae Extract?
Our red algae is Furcellaria Lumbricalis Extract, from a red seaweed that grows in the North Atlantic and Baltic Sea. Red seaweeds are a source of polysaccharides called carrageenans, including furcellaran from this species.
A 2013 review in Marine Drugs on algal compounds in cosmetics describes seaweed polysaccharides as film-forming, moisture-holding ingredients with antioxidant activity.
What It Does for Hair
Conditions and smooths. Seaweed polysaccharides form a light, flexible film on hair, helping it feel smooth and look shinier.
Helps hold moisture. The same film helps hair retain moisture, so strands feel softer.
Adds light protection. Algal antioxidants help protect hair from everyday environmental stress.
Where You'll Find It at True Colour Beauty
The Keratin Shine Leave-In Hair Mist pairs red algae with hydrolyzed keratin for smooth, glossy lengths.
The Soft Start Baby Shampoo also includes it for a soft, gentle wash.
How to Use It
Mist the leave-in onto damp or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, then style as usual. Use the baby shampoo as directed.
What the Research Doesn't Say
Research on Furcellaria lumbricalis focuses on its polysaccharides and their properties. Clinical hair studies on this specific seaweed are limited, so we describe its benefits as conditioning and moisture support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it make hair feel sticky?
No. It forms a light, flexible film.
Is red algae suitable for fine hair?
Yes. It is lightweight.
Are True Colour Beauty products cruelty-free?
Yes. True Colour Beauty is Leaping Bunny certified.
Shine From the Sea
Red algae helps hair feel smooth and look glossy. Read about another seaweed ingredient in What Is Algin?, or explore the True Colour Beauty hair care collection.
Sources
Thomas NV, Kim SK. Beneficial effects of marine algal compounds in cosmeceuticals. Mar Drugs. 2013;11(1):146-164.
Pereira L. Seaweeds as source of bioactive substances and skin care therapy: cosmeceuticals, algotheraphy, and thalassotherapy. Cosmetics. 2018;5(4):68.
