What is Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss)?
Chemically, Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss) (INCI name: Chondrus Crispus Extract) is a marine or algae-derived extract. The red seaweed behind carrageenan, named on pore-clogging lists in the high range.
You may see it on labels as Chondrus Crispus, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Chondrus Crispus Powder, so it can hide under more than one name in an ingredient list.
Where Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss) shows up
Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss) is commonly formulated into anti-ageing serums, masks, and 'marine' or 'seaweed' branded skincare. Separately from clogging, its irritancy is rated 2/5 — low, so it's unlikely to sting or sensitise on its own.
Is Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss) bad for acne-prone skin?
If you are acne-prone, Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss) is one to watch — especially when it appears in the first few ingredients, which means it's present at higher concentration. Lower down a long ingredient list, its practical impact drops considerably.
Worth flagging: Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss)'s rating is disputed. Credible sources land on different numbers, which is why we show a range rather than a single score — and why your own experience is the best tiebreaker.
Non-comedogenic alternatives
If you're avoiding Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss), these lower-risk ingredients serve a similar role and are gentler on pore-prone skin:
- Hyaluronic Acid — rated 0/5 (Low risk).
- Niacinamide — rated 0/5 (Low risk).