carrageenan
AKA “Carrageenan”
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
carrageenan
Synthetic · Film Forming · EWG: 1
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Occlusive
Skin Conditioner
Marine
Synthetic
Clean
Red algae extract that helps smooth and hydrate skin by creating a protective layer. Sourced from oceans worldwide, it's naturally derived and gentle.
CAS #
9000-07-1
See origin →
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Viscosity Controlling
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Antioxidant
Protects skin from free radical damage caused by UV, pollution, and stress
Anti-Inflammatory
Antimicrobial
Hydrates skin
Soothes inflammation
Provides antioxidant protection
Supports skin barrier
Traditional Use
Extracted from red seaweed and used traditionally in Irish and Scottish coastal communities as a food thickener and folk remedy for coughs. Adopted in 20th-century cosmetics as a natural gelling and thickening agent.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
1
CIR
Safe w/Qualifications
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
ewg-1
medical-approval
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
Dermal absorption: 2%. Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 680).
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR