Why is everyone suddenly eating sea moss by the spoonful?

Topically, it might offer barrier support and calming effects, but Dr Agarwal points out that the skin is a selective barrier. “Nutrient penetration is often overstated. Eating it might actually offer more benefits, provided there are no underlying contraindications.”

People with shellfish or seaweed allergies should tread carefully. “Topical application can sometimes lead to contact dermatitis. And when consumed, the high iodine content might trigger breakouts—particularly along the jawline—in those with acne-prone or hormone-sensitive skin.”

Her take? “Sea moss can support a routine and hydrate gently for some skin types, but don’t expect dramatic results.”

A nutritionist’s take

Nutritionally, the enthusiasm is a little more tempered. “We don’t yet have robust research to confirm all the claims,” says Karishmma Chawla, a Mumbai-based functional medicine nutritionist. “But there’s early data pointing to its potential.”

There’s no one right format—gel, capsule or powder. “It depends on how your body processes it. Bio-individuality matters more than packaging,” she explains. Her advice? Always take it under expert supervision, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Dosage, too, is trial and error. “There are no fixed rules,” she says. “Start slow, see how your body responds and go from there.”

Chawla also cautions against jumping in without laying the right groundwork. “Just because it’s rich in minerals doesn’t mean your body can make the most of it. I look at how well a client’s gut and liver are functioning first. If those detox pathways are sluggish, even a good supplement can end up stressing the system instead of supporting it.”

Her bottom line: “No supplement should exist in isolation. I always start with food, and only layer in supplements once the basics are sorted.”

So… is sea moss worth it?

Maybe—but probably not in the way Instagram makes it seem. There’s not enough hard science to crown sea moss a miracle, but with the right guidance and realistic expectations, it might earn a quiet, algae-slicked place in your wellness routine.

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