Which seaweed skincare routine is right for me?

Which Skin Routine is for me?

At our core, we believe skincare should be personal, purposeful, and planet-friendly. Whether you’re navigating Oily / Dry / Easy / Focused / Problem  or Aging skin throughout life, we’re here to answer your questions about how the different PhyaluronicTM acid skincare products at PhycoHealth can help you build a routine that nurtures both your skin’s health and our environment. Through our range of sustainably sourced, marine-powered products, we champion “beauty from good health”—ensuring that radiant, glowing skin comes from within and from nurturing skin care, and that every step you take toward self-care also supports the Earth we share.

Introducing PhyaluronicTM Acid

The core purpose and ingredeint of difference in our skincare range is Phyaluronic™ acid. The reason you won’t find Phyaluronic™  acid in chemical books is simple: we discovered it. As pioneering seaweed researchers, we’ve dedicated decades to exploring the incredible potential of seaweed biomolecules. Phyaluronic Acid™ is a world-first, derived from our research into unique seaweed glycan structures.
When we first identified this molecule, we published our findings using the scientific acronym SXRG84, which refers to a sulfated xylorhamnoglucuronan found in a specific seaweed species we named Species 84. Unlike well-known seaweed-derived compounds like alginate, carrageenan, or agar, this glycan had no established name because it was completely novel. Its structure turned out to be extraordinary—it’s one of the only glycosaminoglycans with structural similarities to hyaluronic acid (commonly known as sodium hyaluronate, composed of β-1,4-D-glucuronic acid and β-1,3-N-acetylglucosamine).
Our research didn’t stop there. In a groundbreaking study led by one of our PhD students, we found that human skin cells recognized this molecule, attached to it, and began forming full-thickness skin tissue. This discovery paved the way for the development of clinical research in wound healing, which we are actively exploring today.
In the meantime, you can enjoy Phyaluronic™ acid as a plant-based alternative to hyaluronic acid with added benefits. Not only does it mimic hyaluronic acid for amazing plumping effect and hydration, but it’s also resistant to enzymes like hyaluronidase, meaning its plumping effect lasts longer. Additionally, in collagen-based scaffolds, it has been shown to protect collagen from degradation by collagenase enzymes—a significant advantage for skin health and anti-aging applications. And further, we are at the forefront of microbiome research of the gut and skin in determine how this molecules can help to support a healthy and diverse microbiome.
In a nutsell, this ingredient is benefical to all skin types as it mimics a natural component of skin, but the formulations and regimen of cleansing, moisturising, soothing and protecting will be different for each of us as individuals. So below we outline the traits of each of our current skincare formulations and how they can be used to suit different skin types. Watch this space as we release more formulations with Phyaluronic™ acid for specific skincare needs, and in response to so many of your requests. We are proud to be the sole source of Phyaluronic™ acid today—a true testament to the power of seaweed science and innovation. Please check out our research and scientific credentials in this space through our track record of scientific publications for over 2 decades. 

Usage Scenarios by Skin Type

Oily/Combination Skin

  1. Morning:
    • Cleanse to remove nighttime oils.
    • Soothe as a lightweight moisturizer/serum.
    • Shield for UV and pollution protection.
  2. Evening:
    • SeaScrub to gently exfoliate and keep pores clear.
    • If you have occasional dry patches, apply Nourish sparingly on those areas.
  3. Weekly/Monthly Add-Ons:
    • Purify 1–2 times/week if you experience congestion or excess oil.

Tip: If your skin is particularly oily, you might prefer to exfoliate at night (SeaScrub) and keep your morning routine simpler—just Cleanse, Soothe, Shield.

Dry/Sensitive Skin

  1. Morning:
    • Cleanse once a day (or alternate mornings).
    • Soothe as a hydrating serum layer.
    • Nourish as your primary moisturiser to lock in hydration.
    • Shield if you’re going outdoors for UV and pollution protection.
  2. Evening:
    • Cleanse again if you’ve worn makeup or sunscreen.
    • Reapply Soothe (optional) and then Nourish generously.
  3. Weekly/Monthly Add-Ons:
    • SeaScrub 1–2 times/week to gently buff away dead skin without over-irritating.
    • Purify mask 1–2 times/month, patch-testing first.

Tip: If your skin feels extra dry, reduce exfoliation frequency and consider layering Soothe underneath Nourish more often.

“Minimalist” to “Advanced” Routines

  • Simplest (2-Step): Cleanse → Nourish (or Soothe for oiler skin)

    • Ideal if you want a no-fuss routine or have very low-maintenance skin.

  • Best Practice (Add UV Protection): Cleanse → Nourish (or Soothe for oilier skin) → Shield

    • Perfect for everyday wear to maintain skin hydration and prevent UV damage.

  • Complete (maximise plumping and hydration): Cleanse → Soothe → Nourish → Shield

    • Incorporates a hydrating serum step (Soothe) for extra calming and plumping. Great for normal-to-dry or combination skin that needs a bit more TLC.

  • Advanced (Monthly Regimens and Multi-Step with Exfoliation & Mask):

    1. Cleanse (Daily)
    2. Soothe (Daily/As Serum)
    3. Nourish (Daily/Nighttime or on dry patches)
    4. Shield (Daily, especially in the morning)
    5. SeaScrub (Daily to weekly)
    6. Purify (Weekly to monthly)

This full routine targets everything from daily hydration and UV defence to deeper exfoliation and purification. You can tailor the frequency of SeaScrub and Purify based on your skin’s sensitivity and seasonal needs.

Example Matrix

Skin Concern Cleanse SeaScrub (Exfoliate) Purify (Mask) Soothe (Serum/Moisturizer) Nourish (Rich Cream) Shield (UV Defense)
Oily/Acne-Prone Daily (AM & PM) 2–3×/week (or daily if tolerated) 1–2×/week Use as primary hydrator (AM & PM) On drier patches if needed Daily (AM) Zinc is great for you
Normal/Combination 1–2×/day 2×/week 1×/week After cleansing or as needed for extra hydration Daily or as needed for dryer areas Daily (AM), reapply if needed
Dry/Dehydrated 1–2×/day (may skip AM) 1–2×/week (gentle) 1–2×/month Layer under Nourish for serum boost Daily (AM & PM) Daily (AM), reapply if outdoors
Sensitive 1–2×/day (gentle formula) 1×/week or less (patch test) 1×/month (patch test) Excellent as a calming serum (AM & PM) Use daily if dryness is pronounced Daily (AM), check for tolerance

Notes:

  • Patch Test for Purify (clay mask) and for SeaScrub if you have reactive skin.
  • Adjust Frequency based on how your skin responds. Reduce or increase usage gradually.
  • Men’s Tip: Soothe is fantastic post-shave to calm irritation.
  • Kids & Babies: Shield’s gentle zinc formula can be used to protect their delicate skin too.
  • Balding scalp: Nourish has been used by men with sun damaged scalps for a great skincare routine - but always wear a hat when outdoors.
  • Hard working hands: Builders are giving us great feedback on chaffed and cracked skin recovery and care by ising Nourish at their worksite.
  • Body: Nourish also great on the body and we delivered a 300ml version for people who use it more liberally.

 

1. Cleanse

A gentle, botanically rich marine cleanser for daily use on face and body. Formulated with seaweed extracts, Vitamin C, and Australian Kakadu Plum to remove pollutants without stripping the skin of deep moisture.

  • Key Benefits:
    • Effectively cleans away impurities, makeup, and excess oil.
    • Maintains skin’s natural pH and deeper moisture levels.
    • Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive.
  • Usage:
    • Oily Skin: Morning and evening.
    • Dry/Sensitive/Normal: 1–2 times daily based on comfort.
    • A little goes a long way; lather gently and rinse thoroughly.

2. SeaScrub

A gentle, buffing exfoliator that uses Sydney Rock Oyster Shell powder and seaweed extracts (SXRG84) to polish away dead cells.

  • Key Benefits:
    • Microfine particles offer effective exfoliation without “scratching.”
    • Supports collagen production; helps maintain skin’s moisture matrix.
    • Leaves skin refreshed, smooth, and not over-stripped.
  • Usage:
    • All Skin Types: Anywhere from daily to weekly, depending on tolerance.
    • Oily/Acne-Prone: 2–3 times/week or daily if tolerated well.
    • Dry/Sensitive: 1–2 times/week to avoid over-exfoliation.

3. Purify (Clay Mask)

A kaolin clay-based face mask enriched with seaweed peptides that provides deep purification and supercharged hydration.

  • Key Benefits:
    • Draws out impurities and excess oil without leaving skin tight or dry.
    • Infuses skin with marine-peptides for plumpness and radiance.
    • Can be used as a 10-minute mask or an overnight treatment (patch test first).
  • Usage:
    • Oily/Combination: 1–2 times/week for deeper cleansing.
    • Dry/Sensitive: 1–2 times/month or as tolerated; always patch test first.
    • Optional Overnight: Apply a thin layer and leave on; rinse off in the morning.

4. Soothe (Lightweight Gel Serum/Moisturiser)

A magic blend of our Australian seaweed Phyaluronic™ Acid and PhycoTide marine-peptides, with aloe vera and kelp alginates.

  • Key Benefits:
    • Calms and hydrates irritated or inflamed skin (from bites, wind, sun, shaving).
    • Lightweight gel texture—perfect as a serum under other products or as a standalone moisturiser for oily skin.
    • Ideal for daily use after exposure to the elements.
  • Usage:
    • Oily Skin: Can be your primary moisturiser (morning and/or night).
    • Normal/Combination: Use as a serum under a heavier moisturiser (Nourish) if needed.
    • Dry/Sensitive: Layer under Nourish for an extra hydration boost.
    • Aftershave/After-Sun: Helps calm and cool the skin.

5. Nourish (Rich Moisturiser)

A deeper moisturising cream with shea butter and our exclusive Phyaluronic™ acid (SXRG84).

  • Key Benefits:
    • Locks in moisture for long-lasting hydration on face or body.
    • Soothes dryness, helps improve barrier function, and promotes collagen support.
    • Ideal for those with normal to dry skin, or anyone needing extra nourishment.
  • Usage:
    • Dry/Dehydrated Skin: Use day and night after Soothe (if desired).
    • Oily/Combination: Use on drier areas (cheeks, neck) or as needed, especially at night.
    • All Skin Types: Especially beneficial in colder or drier climates for an extra moisture boost.

6. Shield (Daily UV & Pollution Block)

A zinc-oxide based physical sunscreen that doubles as daytime defence against both UV rays and pollution, powered by our Phyaluronic™ seaweed extract.

  • Key Benefits:
    • Mineral-based broad-spectrum protection (UVA/UVB).
    • Non-greasy formula that absorbs within minutes; suitable for all ages (even babies).
    • Includes antioxidant-rich botanicals (rosemary, chamomile) to keep skin calm.
  • Usage:
    • Daily (All Skin Types): Apply after moisturiser (Soothe or Nourish) in the morning.
    • Allow a few minutes to absorb; initial whiteness dissipates quickly.
    • Reapply every two hours when in prolonged sun exposure.

In Summary

There’s truly a solution for everyone, whether you crave a streamlined routine (Cleanse + Nourish) or want the full arsenal (Cleanse, SeaScrub, Purify, Soothe, Nourish, Shield). Tailor the products and frequencies according to your skin’s needs, your environment, and your personal comfort level. By layering soothing seaweed extracts, gentle exfoliation, and protective formulations, you’ll keep your skin looking and feeling its best—every day.

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