Retinol is often called the “gold standard” in anti-ageing skincare. It speeds up cell turnover, smooths fine lines, and helps even out skin tone. But anyone who has tried it knows it comes with a price: redness, flaking, dryness, and sensitivity. For many women in midlife, those side effects are simply too much.

That’s why I turned to the ocean. Instead of using retinol in my creams, I chose fucoidan extracts from two brown seaweeds — Fucus vesiculosus and Undaria pinnatifida. These marine extracts deliver results you can see and feel, but in a gentler, more sustainable way.

1. Where They Come From

• Retinol: A synthetic derivative of vitamin A, made through complex chemical processes in factories. It is not natural and not sustainably sourced.
• Fucoidan: Extracted from wild-grown brown seaweed, harvested under certified organic and sustainable practices.

2. What They Do for the Skin

• Retinol: Speeds up skin cell turnover. Can smooth fine lines and pigmentation, but often causes irritation, dryness, and sun sensitivity.
• Fucoidan:
  

  • Fucus vesiculosus extract reduces wrinkles, brightens pigmentation, and protects against enzymes that break down collagen and elastin.
  • Undaria pinnatifida extract increases elasticity, reduces wrinkle depth, boosts hydration, and soothes redness after UV exposure.
  • Together, they support collagen, elastin, and the skin’s natural repair processes without thinning or irritating the skin.

3. Environmental Impact

• Retinol: Made synthetically using energy-intensive, petrochemical-based processes.
• Fucoidan: Seaweed is one of the most sustainable resources on earth. It grows quickly, needs no fertiliser or freshwater, and absorbs carbon as it grows.

Why I Chose Fucoidan Over Retinol

Retinol works, but it is not for everyone. Fucoidan offers a gentler path: firm, smooth, brighter skin, without the irritation. And because it comes from certified organic seaweed, it cares for the planet at the same time. That’s why you’ll find it in my Oceanic Day Cream and Oceanic Evening Cream.

At-a-Glance: Retinol vs Fucoidan Summary