Sun, Seaweed and Skin-Soothing

Image of sunrise and ocean. Title: Seaweed and the Sun. How skin-soothing elements in seaweed can support sunscreen use.

Why Wild Seaweed Thrives Under Constant Sun

No shade. Constant sun. Seaweed still stays resilient — here’s why it matters for your skin.

The first step in protecting your skin from harmful UV rays should always be sunscreen, especially at the height of summer. Still, we all know that sinking feeling when you realize the sun has gotten the best of you — the tightness, the heat radiating off your skin, the restless night ahead. You might be surprised at the ability of cold North Atlantic seaweed species to produce protective compounds that can soothe damage caused by the sun’s rays. And it makes sense; after all, these species have developed over millions of years, and the intertidal zones that they grow in provide almost-unlimited access to sunlight – useful for photosynthesis, but less-than-ideal when it comes to protection from the harms that UV rays cause.

That same challenge makes our coastal waters the perfect testing ground — and why the seaweed here has evolved such powerful self-protection. At 7 Fathoms, we harness that same natural resilience in our bioactive skincare — made to build and protect your skin barrier.

Our region is known for the rugged beauty of its rocky coastlines; the perfect location for Bladderwrack and Laminara Digitata to flourish

Seaweed Compounds that Calm Sun-Stressed Skin

  • Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) and Laminaria digitata, key ingredients in our products, are found along Newfoundland and Labrador’s rocky coastlines. Over millennia, the species has developed resilience to the dramatic turns of our weather; from harsh and cold winters, to warm windy summers.

  • Studies show that as Bladderwrack and Laminaria digitata are exposed to high levels of solar radiation, it produces compounds that help protect themselves from the sun’s rays. When combined with the rich minerals, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, they can produce incredible results when supporting skin conditions ranging from mild sunburn to eczema, and more. 

From Sunburn to Relief - A Customer’s Story

Don’t just take it from us, though – read this testimonial from one of our customers! 

"On a recent trip to Costa Rica, despite our best efforts, sunburn happened! Instead of using aloe vera, I used 7 Fathoms lotion on the burnt skin to relieve the pain and itchiness. It worked like a charm and actually reduced the damage faster than my burns usually heal." – Caitlin, Wisconsin

Environmental Stressors=Unhappy Skin

Of course, UV damage is just one factor to consider when protecting your skin barrier.  Polluted air, high stress, poor sleep, or even a week of dry, windy weather can leave skin feeling as overworked as you do. Luckily, the bioactive compounds in our cold North Atlantic sustainably harvested seaweed extracts can help with a variety of skin issues. 

Here are just some of the compounds found in seaweed that can help promote smoother, healthier-looking skin after exposure to environmental stressors.

Fucoidan, Polyphenols, and Beta-Glucans: Nature’s Skin Barrier Allies

Here’s a closer look at the powerhouse ingredients working in your favour — each one a natural ally for your skin barrier.

  • Fucoidan – Soothing & Skin Barrier Support Naturally found in seaweed fucoidan helps support skin hydration and calmness, making it ideal for skin prone to sensitivity and irritation; reinforcing the skin’s moisture barrier to promote smoother, healthier-looking skin after exposure to environmental stressors.

  • Polyphenols – Antioxidant & Skin-Calming Support These powerful antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which can contribute to the look of irritation, redness, and uneven skin tone. 

  • Beta-Glucans – Hydration & Skin Barrier Support Beta-glucans help reinforce the skin’s moisture barrier, supporting long-lasting hydration and a smoother appearance. They can reduce the look of redness and sensitivity.

Make 7 Fathoms Seaweed Skincare Part of Your Summer Essentials

Because its natural humectant characteristics and marine bioactives promote a healthy skin barrier, our naturally-derived skincare products are the perfect choice to throw in your backpack as you head out the door for summertime adventures like surfing, camping, and hiking. 

Because the best summer days are the ones you can fully enjoy, without the distraction of irritated or overexposed skin. 

Add our Seaweed-Powered Skincare to your summer essentials kit!