MARINE COMPOUNDS APPLIED TO THE COSMETIC INDUSTRY: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW ON PROPERTIES, REGULATION, AND SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION STRATEGIES

Abstract

This article aimed to characterize the implications for the application of marine compounds in cosmetics and cosmeceuticals in the industry, considering their bioactive potential and the possibilities for the sustainable utilization of these resources. This is an integrative literature review, exploratory and descriptive in nature, with a qualitative approach, conducted using the SciELO, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and LILACS databases, considering articles published between 2021 and 2026. Data collection involved cataloging the selected articles and organizing the topics addressed by year of publication, followed by qualitative content analysis and the identification of thematic categories. The results revealed the diversity of marine resources used as sources of bioactive compounds of cosmetic interest, with emphasis on macroalgae, microalgae, and other marine organisms. Among the main activities identified, moisturizing, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties stood out, in addition to anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-aging effects, including applications in maintaining the skin barrier. However, challenges related to regulation, costs, safety, quality, and the availability of marine biomass persist. It is concluded that marine resources have potential for cosmetic innovation and that biotechnological strategies, such as controlled cultivation and advanced extraction and purification techniques, can contribute to their sustainable utilization.