A novel topical ingredient derived from seaweed significantly reduces symptoms of acne vulgaris: a general literature review.

Currently, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, and retinoids are the mainstay topical treatments for acne vulgaris. However, potential benefits may be offered by natural, marine-derived ingredients, such as those derived from brown seaweed (Laminaria digitata). This article will review the available literature on two ingredients; "seaweed oligosaccharides," which are those derived from the polysaccharide membrane of Laminaria digitata, and a novel seaweed oligosaccharide-zinc complex (SOZC) (Phycosaccharide AC, The Mentholatum Company, East Kilbride, UK). Findings from a recent double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial (RCT) will also be reported and likely mechanisms discussed. The findings taken together suggest that SOZC can significantly ameliorate symptoms of acne vulgaris, particularly in terms of reducing sebum production and populations of Propionibacterium acnes.