How Iceland Moss Can Benefit Your Skin
August 16, 2023
![]()
We incorporated Iceland moss into our Get Up & Go Invigorating Body Wash because of its many benefits and naturally refreshing fragrance. Since using various sea mosses, including Iceland moss, is becoming more popular in skincare right now, we put together this guide that explains what Iceland moss and how Iceland moss can benefit your skin.
What Is Iceland Moss?
Iceland moss, a.k.a. Cetraria islandica, is actually a large lichen. Yep, that’s right: Despite the name, Iceland moss is not actually a moss, but is rather a lichen instead-though it does have a moss-like appearance, hence the name. Its leaves are a greenish or reddish brown color on the top and white on the underside. Because the plants lack deep roots, it usually stays on the short side, about 5-10 cm in height. It covers the ground, rocks, or other areas where it is growing in a dense blanket of plants. It grows very slowly but is quite resilient, hence which it flourishes in colder areas.
The Origins of Iceland Moss
Contrary to the name, Iceland moss is not only found in Iceland. While it can be found on the lava fields and plains of Iceland, the lichen also grows in alpine areas of the Northern hemisphere, including other Scandinavian countries as well as Canada and the United States. Iceland moss has historically been used for medicinal purposes as well as food for both animals and humans.
Iceland moss can be distilled into a brown dye that can be used to color other objects. It is also a source of glycerol — also called glycerin or glycerine — which is used to manufacture soaps, creams, and other cosmetic products like our body wash. The Iceland moss is first turned into a gel, then mixed in with other natural skincare ingredients to create the final formulation. Iceland moss has a naturally refreshing, energizing scent that goes well in many cosmetic products.
Iceland Moss Benefits
Iceland moss is very high in vitamins and minerals — including calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin K — making it beneficial to apply to the skin. Not only does this promote overall healthy skin, it can also help to soothe redness and irritation.
Not only that, Iceland moss is high in antioxidants that help to protect your skin from free radical damage that is caused by factors such as pollution and UV exposure. Free radicals cause the collagen and elastin in your skin to break down more quickly, speeding up signs of visible aging. Using products high in antioxidants, like sea moss, will help to guard against free radical damage.
That being said, Iceland moss is very soothing and hydrating, so it’s also appropriate for dry skin types as well. It will also help your skin to feel plump and elastic and maintain a hydrated appearance.
How to Use Iceland Moss in Your Skincare Routine
Because of all of these benefits, we made Iceland moss one of the main ingredients of our Get Up & Go Invigorating Body Wash. To use our body wash, get your skin damp with water, then generously lather some of the body wash in your hand, on a washcloth, or on a netted sponge. Avoid the eye area and rinse them out with water if they come into contact with the body wash. Follow up with the rest of your skincare and body care routine.
Not sure what other products you should be using on your face and body? Take our personalized skincare quiz to get recommendations tailored to your unique needs!