Padina Pavonica Extract

Padina pavonica (a brown algae) extract is typically used at low concentrations as a hydrating/firming and antioxidant botanical, and it is generally well tolerated in cosmetic patch-testing with low rates of irritation. However, as a marine-derived botanical extract with variable composition (polysaccharides, minerals, trace organics), it can still provoke stinging or eczema flares in highly reactive or barrier-impaired patients. Scoring it as gentle (0.3) reflects low expected irritancy at typical use levels while acknowledging non-zero risk in sensitive populations. Safety Notes: In mass-market leave-on moisturizers/serums, Padina Pavonica Extract is often used as a low-level “marine extract”/marketing active, with effective-in-formula levels frequently around 0.001–0.1% (especially when supplied as a diluted glycerin/water extract or used within a blended active). Higher-strength consumer products (marine anti-aging concentrates, ampoules, and some mask/gel formulas) can reach ~1–5% when the extract is supplied as a defined solids extract and positioned as a primary active; rinse-off products tend to sit toward the lower end due to brief contact time and cost.