Haslea Ostrearia
Also known as: Blue Diatom, Navicula
What is Haslea Ostrearia?
A unique blue-pigmented diatom (microalgae) known for producing marennine, a blue-green pigment with bioactive properties.
Why is it used in products?
It's a trendy ingredient in luxury skincare for its rare blue pigment and claimed soothing and protective properties.
Why does it clog pores?
Haslea Ostrearia's biofilm-forming tendencies create a layer on skin that seals pore openings. The marennine pigment itself can also deposit within follicles and contribute to blockages. Its algae-derived polysaccharides compound this effect by thickening the occlusive layer.
Commonly found in
- luxury serums
- moisturizers
- eye creams