The beauty industry is abuzz with peculiar supplements and skincare steps. It’s no surprise that the internet may be more likely to interact with a gold-flaked serum rather than a generic gel moisturizer — after all, it’s a shiny hook for consumerism. Beauty influencers boast that an ancient yet newly resurfaced superfood leads to rejuvenating results and natural enhancements. That superfood is none other than sea moss. But the question remains: is sea moss really worth the hype?  

What is Sea Moss?  

Also known as Irish moss, this tufted seaweed is a red algae species that carries a long history of industrial and wellness value. Sold in various forms of powder, dried and gel materials, this sea moss is used as a source of carrageenan, a leading ingredient in dairy products and other processed foods for thickening and stabilizing purposes. But before its role in commercial markets and mass food production, sea moss was initially used for its holistic and health-boosting properties.   

From medicinal remedies to homeopathic aids, sea moss has been prevalent within various cultural diets due to its thriving abundance along rugged coastlines in Europe and North America. According to Professor Susan Brawley of the University of Maine’s School of Marine Sciences, the use of sea moss is nothing new.  

 “Indeed, for centuries, that is exactly what coastal people did across the North Atlantic,” said Brawley. “When I came to Maine, a colleague who was a native Mainer gave me her handed-down family recipes for how to collect, clean and prepare Irish moss.” 

Among these numerous diets, sea moss harvesting has been customary in Caribbean, Irish and African health practices for generations, using the sea moss for its rich source of nutrients and vitamins. 

What Experts Say and Health Claims  

Praised for its extensive list of benefits — it’s known to support gut health, immune systems, thyroid function, heart health and even weight loss — sea moss is portrayed as the ideal addition to a health guru’s supplement routine. However, when it comes to social media’s broad claims, market motives may sometimes hide reality. Therefore, it’s important to separate influencer advocacy from scientific fact. 

While sea moss is proven to be vitamin and nutrient-rich in calcium, magnesium and vitamin B12, registered dietitian Beth Czerwony said there is limited research on its overall effectiveness, impact and health benefits.“There seem to be quite a few health benefits of sea moss, but they aren’t heavily studied,” said Czerwony.  

Overconsumption may also be a risk towards certain individuals, as sea moss contains compounds that act as natural blood thinners.   

The Grand Experiment 

As a result of growing online speculation, many have decided to test it out themselves. TikTokers and bloggers are documenting monthlong experiments — careful to maintain their usual wellness routines — and they’ve all come to different conclusions. Some claim that their skin is glowing and they’ve felt less bloated, while others feel no difference.  

When asked whether sea moss is worthwhile, McKenna Pringle, blogger for “The EveryMom” said, “Well, the short answer is no. But, everybody, every immune system and everyone’s hormones are different. So, sea moss could very well do something for you.” 

As with any beauty or health trend, it’s important to approach this from a critical standpoint. What feels right to your body may not work for others, and vice versa.  

While sea moss’s current rise in fame is largely due to internet icons and applauding influencers, its presence in Europe, North America and numerous coastal cultures has been around for centuries. Only recently are human studies and scientific approaches focusing on its broader properties and valued places in our diets. All this to say that while trends can boom overnight, scientific evidence, research and history are important factors in truly determining viral supplements’ effectiveness and impacts. If you’re curious to try it out, there is little harm and positive possibilities for your health when done in moderation. If you decide to pass, be it for the slight fishy taste or simple lack of research, the wellness market remains full of nutritional superfoods and supplements that are tried-and-true to benefit our bodies.  

Here’s some superfoods with positive properties that are often attributed to sea moss: 

1. Acai Berries  

 On a tastier note, acai berries — technically drupes due to containing pits — are an antioxidant-rich fruit that supports skin health, the immune system, and energy levels. These antioxidants neutralize the presence of free radicals in the body, helping to prevent diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.  

 2. Fish (Salmon and Tuna)  

 Eating fish is a great way to reach your nutrient and protein goals, especially with iodine intake. Iodine is crucial in managing thyroid health, as it plays an important role in determining energy, weight gain, and muscle weakness.   

3. Chia Seeds 

High in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, chia seeds have been a staple food to the human diet for over 5,000 years. Fiber supports digestion and keeps our body full for longer, promoting a healthy gut. Omega-3 fatty acids target the body’s inflammation while strengthening brain and cardiovascular health.  

words_karly rae lieblong. illustration&design_jay moyer.

This article was published in Distraction’s Fall 2025 print issue.

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