Ecklonia cava is a brown marine alga whose extract is rich in phlorotannins (e.g., dieckol, eckol) used in skincare for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and photoprotective properties. It is investigated for protecting against UV-induced oxidative stress and supporting collagen preservation.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Contact irritation | Rare | Mild redness or stinging possible in sensitive individuals. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization to plant/algal components reported occasionally. |
Iodine-related sensitivity | Very rare | Brown algae can contain iodine, a theoretical concern for iodine-sensitive users. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.