California-based biotech company Macro Oceans launched Big Kelp Flex, its new seaweed cellulose ingredient. This natural ingredient will still provide the level of performance found in synthetics, eliminating microplastics from formulas. As the dialogue around sustainability endures and companies scrounge for microplastic replacements, clean, zero-waste innovation in the industry are exactly what the market is demanding.
Big Kelp Flex salves several sore spots in the industry, one being that it’s able to suspend high-density particles like zinc or titanium in mineral sunscreens, where previously, in order to get the product to disperse evenly for effective sun protection, companies have turned to microplastics or natural ingredients, like gum and bentonites, which can clog nozzles and contribute to white casting. Big Kelp Flex harnesses the regenerative properties of seaweed to create a superabsorbent ingredient that efficiently suspends particles in mineral sunscreens. Another need Big Kelp Flex meets is restoring luxurious, silky textures often lost in natural products.
“Seaweed cellulose fibers are naturally purer, longer, thinner and more flexible than other plant-based fibers such as wood”, explains Colin Hepburn, chief technology officer. “This gives them superabsorbent properties and the ability to create unique visco-gel structures.” Big Kelp Flex is also traceable and made in the U.S., meeting consumer expectations for transparency and avoiding stirring up fears surrounding the larger tariff conversation and the implications on beauty’s supply chain.
The launch of Big Kelp Flex follows the launch of another Macro Oceans ingredient, Big Kelp Hydration, which launched last year and is currently working nationally with more than 100 companies.
“We’re committed to sourcing ingredients that are as thoughtful in origin as they are effective in performance,” says Matt Roomet, founder & CEO of Project Reef, on why he partnered with Macro Oceans. “Big Kelp Hydration offers incredible skin benefits, but it also helps planet regeneration by sequestering carbon from our atmosphere. The partnership between Project Reef and Macro Oceans is about shared purpose and environmental impact.”
Macro Oceans specializes in creating biomaterials from kelp while minimizing its carbon footprint.
