What Is Aphanothece Sacrum Polysaccharide?
Aphanothece Sacrum Polysaccharide is a plant-based sugar complex extracted from Aphanothece sacrum, a freshwater algae historically enjoyed in Japan as a rare culinary delicacy called suizenji nori. Chemically it is a network of long chain sugars such as galactose and rhamnose that can bind large amounts of water and create a soft flexible film on skin.
To obtain the ingredient on a commercial scale the algae are cultivated in clean, controlled ponds then gently harvested. The cell walls are broken down with water, the polysaccharides are separated from proteins and pigments through filtration and precipitation, and the purified gel is dried into a fine powder that dissolves easily in cosmetic formulas.
Thanks to its gelling and water-holding abilities the powder shows up in sheet masks, hydrating serums, anti-aging creams, soothing after-sun lotions, eye gels, styling creams and even clean-label hair conditioners where a natural thickener is preferred.
Aphanothece Sacrum Polysaccharide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare and haircare formulas this algae-derived sugar performs several useful technical roles that translate into a smoother feel and better product stability.
- Absorbent – soaks up excess water or oil in a formula which helps create a pleasant non-greasy finish on skin
- Emulsion Stabilising – prevents the oily and watery parts of a cream from separating so the product stays uniform throughout its shelf life
- Film Forming – lays down an invisible flexible layer that locks in moisture reduces transepidermal water loss and leaves skin feeling soft and cushioned
- Viscosity Controlling – thickens or gels the formula allowing brands to fine-tune texture from light fluid to rich cream without synthetic gums
Who Can Use Aphanothece Sacrum Polysaccharide
This algae derived polysaccharide is considered friendly for most skin types. Its lightweight film helps hold moisture without trapping excess oil so it suits dry, combination, oily, sensitive and mature skin alike. Because it is a water loving sugar and not an oil, it rarely aggravates acne prone complexions.
The ingredient is sourced from cultivated freshwater algae with no animal derivatives or by-products, making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Available safety data shows no specific hazards for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is applied topically in a finished cosmetic formula. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should have their healthcare provider review any new skincare product before use just to be safe.
Aphanothece Sacrum Polysaccharide does not cause photosensitivity so it will not make skin more reactive to sunlight. It layers well with sunscreen and most common actives including vitamin C and retinoids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet unlikely when the material is correctly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation temporary redness or stinging in very reactive individuals
- Allergic contact dermatitis itching swelling or rash in those with a rare algae or polysaccharide allergy
- Product pilling visible residue or flakes if layered over heavy silicone rich products
- Eye irritation watering or discomfort if the raw powder is accidentally blown into the eyes during manufacturing or DIY handling
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and consult a qualified healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Aphanothece Sacrum Polysaccharide is a large water-soluble sugar that does not contain fatty acids or oils which could block pores. It sits on the surface as a breathable film and rinses away easily so it earns the lowest possible score for pore clogging potential.
That makes it generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. The only caveat is that the overall comedogenicity of a finished product depends on every ingredient in the formula not just this polysaccharide.
Summary
Aphanothece Sacrum Polysaccharide acts as an absorbent, emulsion stabiliser, film former and viscosity controller. Its long chain sugars bind water and swell, thickening a formula while laying down a flexible moisture-trapping veil that keeps skin soft. The same network structure steadies emulsions by holding oil and water phases in place and it can mop up excess fluid for a smoother finish.
Although prized in Japanese beauty the ingredient is still a relative newcomer in global skincare so you will mainly spot it in niche clean or algae-focused lines. Safety data are reassuring with very low irritation and allergy rates yet, as with any cosmetic, it is smart to patch test a new product to be sure your skin agrees.