Revealing the Potential Use of Macro and Microalgae Compounds in Skin Barrier Repair

The skin barrier is essential for maintaining the body’s internal homeostasis and protecting against harmful external substances; its impairment may cause different dermatological diseases. Algae compounds are used for skin care with the aim of preventing skin aging, improving hydration, and protecting against environmental aggressors. In this context, it can be assumed that these compounds (polysaccharides, lipids, phenols, etc.) may serve to strengthen the skin barrier, and therefore, the purpose of this review is to test this hypothesis. This review surveys the literature on the potential of algae-derived compounds in skin care, focusing on skin barrier repair, hydration, and emollience. From the review of published studies, it can be concluded that polysaccharides, phenols, carotenoids, and extracts from macro and microalgae can indeed be effective in skin barrier maintenance and recovery after injuries.