From Ocean to Skincare: Emerging Technologies Driving Marine-Derived Cosmetic Innovations

Abstract

Objectives This review aims to summarise the current understanding of marine-derived compounds used in cosmetics, emphasizing their biological targets, chemical diversity, and technological challenges hindering large-scale application. Material and Methods A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed and Google Scholar databases for studies published between 2010 and 2025, using keywords related to marine bioactive compounds and cosmetic applications. Data from bibliometric and thematic analyses were integrated to highlight major research trends. Results Algae and other marine organisms provide abundant sources of bioactives such as polyphenols, phlorotannins, carotenoids, terpenoids, and mycosporine-like amino acids, exhibiting antioxidant, anti-aging, moisturising, and photoprotective properties. Despite their potential, commercial application is limited by challenges related to extraction scalability, compound stability, regulatory approval, and sustainability. Conclusion Marine-derived compounds represent an emerging, eco-sustainable frontier in cosmetic science. Strengthening collaboration between academia and the cosmetic industry is crucial to advance green biotechnological innovations, ensure sustainable resource management, and accelerate market integration of marine bioactives.