Agar

[ˈä-gər]

Categories: Marine Plant Extracts, Emulsifiers

Agar Skincare Benefits:
Moisturizing

Agar is a polysaccharide ingredient obtained from seaweed or algae, particularly red algae (Gelidium). This biologically active ingredient, found mostly in Asia and Africa, is a complex carbohydrate that consists of mainly galactose residues. Agar’s jellified texture is highly beneficial in cosmeceutical product development. 1

Similar to carrageenan, agar’s high concentration of galactose residues works as a good emulsifier for formulas that contain ingredients with different solubility. This helps to stabilize moisturizing products, such as lotions and creams, as well as add thickness in order to provide a smoother, creamier texture. Furthermore, as a derivative of marine algae, agar is speculated to provide improved moisture-retention, which may help to reduce skin dryness. For this reason, agar is the ideal skincare ingredient to add to moisturizing products. 1 2 3

  1. Berardesca, E. et al. An effective night slimming topical treatment. International Journal of Cosmetic Science 34, 263–272 (2012)
  2. Salvador, A. et al. Analysis of cosmetic products. Elsevier (2011)
  3. Kim, H. et al. Preventive effect of fermented Gelidium amansii and Cirsium japonicum extract mixture against UVB-induced skin photoaging in hairless mice." Food Science and Biotechnology 23.2, 623-631 (2014)