True Stories
Revolutionizing cosmetics with seaweed: meet Ínclita Seaweed Solutions
Ana Catarina Guedes, Co-founder and CEO of Ínclita Seaweed Solutions
I’m Ana Catarina Guedes, Co-founder and CEO of Ínclita Seaweed Solutions, a marine biotechnology startup dedicated to creating innovative, science-backed active cosmetics ingredients from seaweed extracts. My passion for marine biotechnology began over 25 years ago during my studies in microbiology, as I became fascinated by the untapped potential of our oceans. Growing up in Portugal, a country intrinsically linked to the sea, I saw an opportunity to bridge traditional maritime heritage with cutting-edge technology. So that, during my PhD, I delved deeper into algal biotechnology, often finding myself as one of the few women in an industry dominated by older male peers. This experience fueled my drive to bring fresh perspectives to the field. Outside of work, I enjoy water skiing and spending quality time with my family, who have been my greatest source of inspiration and support throughout my personal and professional journey.
NATRUE: Why seaweed is important for cosmetics? What unique properties of your ingredients make them particularly suited for skincare applications?
Ana Catarina: Over two decades of research into marine biotechnology has revealed that seaweed offers benefits far beyond its traditional use in food. These organisms sequester carbon, helping combat climate change, and do not compete with agricultural crops for arable land or fresh water. This makes them an environmentally friendly resource with immense potential for various industries, including cosmetics.
Seaweed also thrives in harsh and nutrient-poor environments, which drives them to produce unique compounds with extraordinary properties. Brown seaweeds, for example, are rich in antioxidants, protecting the skin from oxidative stress caused by UV exposure and pollution. They also possess hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties. Red seaweeds support skin elasticity and help reduce fine lines, making them perfect for anti-aging and sun care products, while green seaweeds, with their high mineral content, are excellent for skin revitalization.
When we harness these properties through sustainable and precise extraction methods, we are able to create high-performance ingredients that rival – and often surpass – synthetic alternatives. By combining the unique bioactivities of different seaweed species, we develop natural, sustainable, versatile, and effective solutions for the cosmetics industry.
NATRUE: The concept of “Blue Economy” is gaining traction globally. Could you explain what it entails and why it’s emerging as a crucial trend?
Ana Catarina: The Blue Economy emphasizes the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, job creation, and improved livelihoods, all while preserving marine ecosystems. It’s an essential framework as we tackle challenges like climate change and resource scarcity.
For us at Ínclita Seaweed Solutions, the Blue Economy is about fully harnessing seaweed’s potential, minimizing waste, and maximizing the value of marine resources. This involves using every part of the seaweed biomass and developing sustainable processes that align with circular economy principles. By focusing on the long-term health of ocean resources, we not only create value but also ensure a positive environmental impact.
NATRUE: How does the company ensure sustainable seaweed sourcing, and what are the environmental benefits?
Ana Catarina: At Ínclita Seaweed Solutions, we have established strong partnerships with European seaweed biomass suppliers, who are either dedicated to the sustainable cultivation of seaweed or specialize in regulated seaweed harvesting. All harvesting practices are carefully supervised to ensure that seaweed remains an abundant, self-renewing natural resource, preserving the balance of natural ecosystems. By adhering to these stringent standards, we contribute to the sustainable growth of the seaweed sector in Europe.
Beyond sustainable sourcing, we are committed to full biomass utilization. Through biorefinery processes, we repurpose residual seaweed for other industries, ensuring nothing goes to waste. This approach supports environmental stewardship while contributing to diverse applications across sectors.
NATRUE: What new seaweed-derived products or ingredients can we expect in the near future?
Ana Catarina: 2024 was a milestone year for us, marked by the launch of three groundbreaking ingredients: InAlgae AOX (antioxidant and anti-pigmentation), InAlgae HEX (exfoliating and calming), and InAlgae AZO (deep hydration with UV protection). We’re constantly refining our formulations, so in 2025, you can expect even more potent versions of these ingredients, alongside new launches exploring untapped bioactivities of seaweed. One exciting development slated for the first quarter is a product designed to enhance skin tone uniformity.
A recently published study reveals that the market for seaweed cosmetic ingredients is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.0% from 2024 to 2034, reaching an impressive US$ 900 million in the next 10 years! In this scenario, we are committed to positioning ourselves as a reference in the industry, leading the way with innovation, sustainability, and high-performance ingredients that meet the evolving demands of consumers and formulators alike.
NATRUE: Why did Inclita Seaweed Solutions choose to pursue NATRUE certification for its raw materials?
Ana Catarina: Consumer trends clearly show a growing demand for transparency, sustainability, and natural ingredients. However, the cosmetics industry still struggles with issues like greenwashing, which undermine trust. In this scenario, NATRUE is more than just a certification; it represents a shared commitment to authenticity, transparency, and sustainability in an industry that often faces challenges.
Pursuing NATRUE certification was a natural choice for us. It aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver high-quality, sustainable ingredients. The rigorous standards set by NATRUE ensure that our raw materials are genuinely natural and ethically produced, giving our partners confidence in the integrity of our ingredients. This adds immense value for formulators and brands looking to build trust with consumers. By prioritizing certification, we reinforce our dedication to sustainability and set a benchmark for the industry.
For more information about Ínclita Seaweed Solutions,
visit www.inclitaseaweedsolutions.com
Download the interview here.