Is topically-applied seaweed derivative comedogenic?

Hi, all,

I know we suggest that our clients stay away from consuming seaweed/kelp due to its very high iodine content...but would that caveat apply to a product that contains a seaweed? Topically applied, would seaweed have the same irritating effect? I have a product that I love to recommend to clients (not acne ones) that is anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant-rich, and has lots of natural pigment suppressors - all of which are very needed by those suffering from acne. I just want to make sure I would not be adding fuel to the fire because of its containing seaweed.

Thanks!

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Brenda Griffin on September 17, 2012 at 9:52am

Without knowing the product or exactly what you are referring to as the seaweed deritive, my initial reaction is, it may not be comedogenic per say but seaweed irritates acne so I would not apply something topically that would urher irritate the lesions.

Permalink Reply by Mary Lou Coleman on September 17, 2012 at 3:18pm

Thanks so much, Brenda. I just came up with the name of the ingredient - it's ascophyllum nodosum.

Permalink Reply by Brenda Griffin on September 17, 2012 at 3:33pm

Mary Lou, my research indicates this is kelp. That being said I would avoid using it on acne clients. Another factor is where it lies in the ingredient deck on the product you are speaking of.

Permalink Reply by Mary Lou Coleman on September 17, 2012 at 8:06pm

Yes, I should probably refrain. As far as where in the ingredient list, it's a probably 12th out of 25 ingredients. Not high, but not worth the risk....

Thanks for responding to my question!

Permalink Reply by Laura Cooksey on September 18, 2012 at 10:26am

I don't know for sure, but I wouldn't take the chance. Dr. Fulton says that swimming pool disinfectants containing iodides will irritate the skin, so it seems that the same would go for topical iodides wouldn't you think?

Permalink Reply by Mary Lou Coleman on September 18, 2012 at 3:42pm

Well there it is right there. I had forgotten that Dr. Fulton said that...or maybe I didn't realize that swimming pool disinfectants contained iodides. Certainly not worth taking the risk.