Seaweed is a promising source of bioactive compounds with potential applications in skincare, particularly for addressing hyperpigmentation. This study investigated the chemical profiles and biological activities of hydrophilic and lipophilic extracts from Sargassum polycystum, Caulerpa lentillifera, and Gracilaria fisheri. LC-MS and GC-MS analyses identified 8 and 112 compounds in hydrophilic and lipophilic extracts, respectively. Among these, G. fisheri lipophilic extracts exhibited the strongest anti-tyrosinase activity. Molecular docking identified eight compounds with low binding affinities comparable to kojic acid and tropolone, while ADMET predictions highlighted stigmasterol for its favorable skin permeability and safety. In vitro cytotoxicity assays confirmed its low toxicity (IC50 = 3.38 ± 0.28 µg/mL) with no adverse effects at 0.006 µg/mL. Trypsin stability assays and molecular docking against serine proteases (trypsin and chymotrypsin) showed no significant off-target interactions. These findings suggest stigmasterol as a safe, selective, and effective natural tyrosinase inhibitor for potential use in skin-whitening formulation.
Microalgae are attracting growing interest in the cosmetics industry due to their rich content of antioxidants, vitamins, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which offer anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and photoprotective benefits. Current research primarily focuses on individual species and isolated bioactive compounds. Several challenges persist, including scalability, cost-effective production, low biomass yields, and regulatory constraints. From an environmental perspective, microalgae can be sustainably cultivated on non-arable land, using recycled water and capturing CO₂, thus reducing carbon emissions. Technological advancements, such as photobioreactor systems, have further enhanced resource efficiency and minimized ecological impact. This review explores multiple microalgal species and their combined bioactive potential for innovative cosmetic formulations. By integrating green extraction techniques and circular economy principles, microalgae-based products can meet rising consumer demand for clean beauty while promoting sustainability. With increasing clinical evidence and ongoing technological progress, microalgae hold significant promise for driving eco-friendly innovation in the cosmetics sector.

