FAQs

How does kelp help my skin? 

Kelp is a macroalgae that has evolved to grow and thrive in harsh and variable conditions with exposure to extreme changes in sunlight and temperature. Kelp produces secondary metabolites that act as antioxidants to help protect its tissues. Studies have shown that when these compounds are applied to human skin, they have the same antioxidant benefits. These bioactive compounds include polysaccharides, polyphenols, amino acids, UV-absorbing pigments, vitamins, and minerals. Studies have shown that kelp’s benefits to skin include the following properties: antioxidant, age-defying, soothing, hydrating, and brightening. 

Is kelp the same as seaweed? 

Kelp is a type of seaweed. It is a macroalgae, meaning it grows into long, large blades. 

What type of kelp is in KelpGlow? 

We grow Sugar Kelp, Saccharina latissima, for use in our KelpGlow formula. Because of its nutrient-rich properties, sugar kelp is used as an ingredient in food, healthcare and beauty products.  

Is the kelp in KelpGlow wild harvested? What is the difference between wild harvested seaweed and farmed seaweed? 

Our kelp is farmed, not wild harvested. The kelp we use is grown at our farm in Kittery, Maine. In the winter, we ‘plant’ our kelp line in the ocean where it grows from tiny seeds to long blades, and then we harvest it in the spring to use in our products. Wild harvested kelp is not planted, but can be harvested from beaches and rocks. We only use kelp that we grow on our farm, eliminating any sustainability concerns.

How is KelpGlow made? 

We harvest and dry our kelp in a greenhouse. Once it is dried, using a proprietary green extraction method, we infuse select nourishing oils with our sugar kelp extract. We create the oil in small batches to ensure freshness. 

How is growing kelp good for the planet? 

Kelp absorbs excess carbon dioxide, nitrogen and phosphorous from our oceans.  Because of its rapid growth rate, kelp is 20 times more efficient at absorbing carbon dioxide from our atmosphere than terrestrial forests. As a result, at scale, kelp can play a role in reducing the effects of global warming.  Read more at Carbonplan.org and Oceans2050.com.

Also, unlike land-based crops, kelp requires zero inputs to grow.  No added fertilizer.  No pesticides.  No fresh water.  No soil.  Where kelp can replace other agricultural products, it frees up land and fresh water for other uses.  Where kelp can replace industrial products like single-use plastic (e.g. Sway and Notpla), the environmental benefits are undeniably compelling.

While growing, kelp provides habitat for marine organisms, protects coastlines from storms, and deacidifies the immediate ocean environment. Kelp farming also allows waterfront communities to economically diversify, mitigate climate change effects, and supplement incomes. 

Where is your kelp grown and your products made? 

We grow kelp on our coastal farm in Kittery, Maine; our products are handcrafted in small batches in nearby York, Maine.

Is KelpGlow safe to use during pregnancy? 

Congratulations!  We recommend that pregnant individuals consult with their healthcare provider before incorporating any new supplement or product into their routine, including KelpGlow Facial Oil. Ingredients are listed on each of our product pages.

What skin types is KelpGlow best suited for? 

KelpGlow is suited for all skin types including sensitive, mature, acne, or allergy-prone skin. For those who are sensitive to essential oils, we recommend KelpGlow Fragrance Free.

Does KelpGlow cause breakouts in acne prone skin? 

We purposely formulated KelpGlow using oils that score low on the comedogenic scale, meaning they are unlikely to cause breakouts. KelpGlow can be used on all types of skin, including dry, mature, normal, oily, and acne-prone.

Can I use KelpGlow in place of my moisturizer? 

Yes, KelpGlow can be used in place of moisturizer! This is how our Co-Founder Krista prefers to wear it. However, during the coldest, driest months (January in Maine, for example), you may prefer to first apply a thin layer of moisturizer. Another alternative is to mix KelpGlow with your current moisturizer (a method preferred by our Co-Founder Inga!). Remember that oil-based products are great at “locking in” moisture, so it’s best to use KelpGlow within the first couple minutes after drying your face.

Can men use KelpGlow?

Yes! KelpGlow is great for men, too. It has a light citrus scent and is non-comodogenic. 

What is the shelf life of KelpGlow? 

Unopened KelpGlow has a shelf life of 24 months. After opening, please use within 12 months. If you use KelpGlow regularly, a 1-ounce bottle should last about 2-4 months. 

 

Orders/Shipping/Returns FAQ

What forms of payment do you accept?  

For website sales we accept all major credit cards (we see you, Diners Club), Amazon Pay, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Meta Pay and Shop Pay.

Where do you ship? 

Currently we ship only within the United States; and we offer free shipping for orders over $50!

Do you accept returns? 

We accept returns of unopened product only. Please see our return policy for more information. 

How can I cancel an order? 

Please email us at hello@coldcurrentkelp.com to cancel an order.