Asian J Beauty Cosmetol. 2014; 12(4): 447-452.

A Review of the Usability of Fucoidan Extracted from Brown Seaweed as a Functional Ingredient of Cosmetics

Recently, as peoples’ interests in Well-being grow, their interests in developing natural, functional cosmetic ingredients are also increasing. The research of Brown Seaweeds; an abundant resource around the world, is actively in progress. Fucoidan; which is contained in Brown Seaweeds, is a Polysaccharide containing Sulfates. Fucoidan is found to have similar properties with Heparin; which is also in blood, but has a larger amount of Sulfates in comparison and is therefore proven to be more effective. The research on the effects of Fucoidan for anti-inflammation, anti-tumors, antivirus, etc. is progressively moving forward. While the research regarding the functionality of Fucoidan in pharmaceuticals and foods is complete, the development of cosmetics using these ingredients is still premature. In this thesis, the research that has been done on the effects of Fucoidan towards hydration, whitening and antioxidants has been reviewed. Also, the prospect of Fucoidan as a functional ingredient in cosmetics has been looked into. However, because the large molecular weight of Fucoidan prevents it from being absorbed properly into the body and the technique to remove the distinct scent of the seaweed has yet to be completed, the value of Fucoidan has not been used to its fullest potential. Therefore, aggressive research in these areas is necessary.

Keywords : Fucoidan, Brown Seaweeds, Hydration, Whitening, Anti-oxidants