MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++ Review

MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++
5.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
0.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
10.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
30
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++ Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++ has to offer:
 
  • Strong occlusive moisturizing. This exceptionally occlusive moisturizer, ideal for dry and very dry skin, has a moderate moisturizing rating of 5.0 out of 10, impaired by the absence of humectants.
  • Soothing: MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++ contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
  • Antioxidant protection.
  • Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

Key Benefits of MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++:
 

Very Rich Moisturizer with the Right Occlusivity for Very Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++ is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? It is purely occlusive. It has zero Humectancy (we didn't find any humectant ingredients on the ingredient list) and a maximum Occlusivity of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil (est. ≈45.0%), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil (est. ≈22.0%) and Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil (est. ≈6.0%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, can deliver an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin. The occlusive profile of MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++ suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++ is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil (est. ≈45.0%) and Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil (est. ≈22.0%).

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++ is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil (est. ≈45.0%).

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

With an SPF of 30, MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++ provides moderate to high sun protection, making it suitable for daily use during moderate sun exposure, such as commuting or light outdoor activities.

This level of SPF offers excellent defense against UVB rays, blocking up to 97% of harmful radiation. When labeled as broad-spectrum, these products also protect against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging and hyperpigmentation.

For optimal protection, choose products labeled broad-spectrum to ensure defense against both UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and pigmentation, and UVB rays that cause sunburn.

This level of SPF works well for skin types mildly prone to sunburn. It is particularly suitable for low-to-moderate UV index environments and non-tropical climates. However, it is not recommended for prolonged outdoor exposure or intense UV conditions. Reapplication every two hours is essential to maintain effectiveness.

Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++ to your skincare routine:
 

Best for Very Dry Skin - May Be Too Thick for Other Skin Types

With exceptional occlusivity, this product is optimal for moisturizing dry and very dry skin but may be too thick for other skin types, including normal, and especially combination and oily skin.

If you have oily, combination, or normal skin and are considering purchasing this product for the first time, it might be a good idea to try a sample before buying.

If It’s Your Only Moisturizer, It’s Better When Paired with Some Humectants

An ideal moisturizer for any skin type should balance the right level of occlusivity (depending on skin type) with a significant amount of humectants, while MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++ contains no humectants at all.

People with dry skin would definitely benefit from adding water-binding humectants to their moisturizing routine for effective dual-action moisturizing. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

Pros & Cons of MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of MARA Beauty Algae + Zinc Sea Kale Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 PA+++ to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

Pros:

  • Provides the right level of occlusivity to moisturize dry to very dry skin
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution
  • Contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help reduce irritation and soothe the skin
  • Provides moderate to high sun protection, suitable for daily use during moderate sun exposure and light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates

Cons: 

  • May feel too rich and thick on skin types other than dry
  • Ideally needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
45
22
13.2
6
4
3
2
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Alaria Esculenta Extract
Function:
Origin:
Aster Tripolium Extract
Function:
Origin:
Crambe Maritima Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
0.0
None
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
84.5
45.0
22.0
6.0
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.5
1.0
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 0.0 10
0.0
None
Occlusivity All occlusives 84.5 20
10.0
45.0
22.0
6.0
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.5
1.0
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
None
All humectants 0.0 10
0.0
All humectants
0.0
None
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
45
22
6
4
3
2
1.5
1
All occlusives 84.5 20
10.0
All occlusives
84.5
45.0
22.0
6.0
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.5
1.0
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
None
Total
0
None
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
45
22
1
All antioxidants 68 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
68
Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil
45
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil
22
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil
1
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
45
All soothing 45 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
45
45
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil
Est. %45
Function
Origin
Moringa Oleifera Seed OilAn oil obtained from the seeds of Moringa oleifera, a fast-growing bush native to Northern India and the sub-Himalayan regions. It contains mainly oleic acid, as well as many additional anti-inflammatory compounds and high levels of vitamin E.
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil
Est. %22
Function
Origin
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed OilAn emollient and occlusive moisturizing oil derived from grape seeds that are leftover after juicing or wine production. It contains linoleic, oleic, palmitic, and stearic acids, squalene, as well as phytosterols and various antioxidant compounds.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %13.2
Function
Origin
Zinc OxideA white mineral powder mainly used in skincare as a physical sunscreen. It protects against UVA light that leads to visible signs of aging, including wrinkles and fine lines. Zinc oxide can also be used as a colorant to enhance the whiteness of a product.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed OilA fatty oil expressed from sunflower seeds and one of the most commonly used oils in skincare. It has great emollient and occlusive moisturizing properties. Sunflower oil is one of the richest sources of vitamin E – an important skin antioxidant.
Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed OilAn emollient and occlusive fatty oil pressed from flax seeds. It is the richest source of linolenic fatty acid (it contains up to 50% of it) among vegetable oils.
Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed OilAn emollient and occlusive moisturizing fatty oil expressed from raspberry seeds. It is a rich source of linoleic, α-linolenic, and palmitic fatty acids.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Cannabis Sativa Seed OilAlso known as hemp seed oil, an occlusive moisturizing and emollient oil derived from the seeds of industrial hemp. It has nothing to do with full-spectrum CBD or THC. It contains unsaturated fatty acids, antioxidant phytosterols, phytol, and vitamin E.
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) OilA fatty oil expressed from the fleshy part of an avocado, used in skincare for its excellent emollient and occlusive moisturizing properties. Avocado oil contains fatty acids, notably oleic acid (up to 80%), squalene, vitamin E, and carotenoids.
Alaria Esculenta Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alaria Esculenta ExtractDerived from badderlocks, an edible seaweed, this extract is rich in film-forming alginates. It can be used as a formula helper.
Aster Tripolium Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aster Tripolium Extract
Crambe Maritima Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Crambe Maritima Leaf Extract
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil

A fragrant essential neroli oil distilled from the flowers of the bitter orange tree. It has a rich, orange-floral scent with fresh and spicy notes.

Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyhydroxystearic AcidA soft and malleable amber wax naturally derived from vegetable sources. It allows minerals to be very finely dispersed, which can improve SPF, decrease the white cast in sunscreens, and increase the color expression in pigmented products.