Marine Algae in Wound Healing and Skin Regeneration: A Review of Bioactive Components

Abstract

Marine algae, widely recognized as valuable marine resources, have gained increasing attention for their diverse bioactive compounds with therapeutic and cosmeceutical potential. Classified into green, brown, and red algae, they produce metabolites such as polysaccharides, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and phlorotannins, which exhibit strong antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities. Key compounds like alginate, carrageenan, and phlorotannins plays vital role in wound healing, skin regeneration, and drug delivery systems due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to enhance tissue repair. Alginates are extensively utilized in creams, gels, and biomedical patches for maintaining a moist wound environment and promoting healing. Carrageenans, derived from red algae, demonstrate antibacterial and photoprotective properties, making them suitable for cosmeceuticals and biomedical scaffolds. Phlorotannins from brown algae act as natural polyphenols with broad biological activities including UV protection and anti-aging effects, positioning them as promising ingredients in skincare formulations. Traditional uses of marine algae underscore their long-standing therapeutic significance, while modern research validates their application in advanced wound dressings, tissue regeneration, and controlled drug delivery. This review highlights marine algae as a sustainable and renewable source of innovative bioactive agents, presenting promising opportunities for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and biomedical industries in the development of safe, natural, and effective therapeutic solutions.