She’s thicc, she’s multi-hyphenate and she’s had all the wellness girlies talking.

From taking a starring role in Hailey Bieber’s viral ‘Strawberry Glaze Skin’ Erewhon smoothie, to racking up millions of views on TikTok, sea moss - or more specifically, sea moss gel- has been having quite the moment in the superfood spotlight.

With purported benefits from weight loss to immune support to increased collagen production (i.e., glowy hair and skin), it seems there isn’t much this gloopy, gelatinous ingredient can’t do, which is probably why you’re seeing so many clips of celebrities and influencers scooping the stuff into their mouths with the gusto of a heroically stoned person going at a jar of Nutella.

And while it’s always worth approaching any trending superfood with a big ol’ spoonful of scepticism, when it comes to this humble ocean plant there are some claims that do stack up.

Like all seaweeds, sea moss is a nutritional powerhouse, high in minerals such as iodine, potassium, calcium, as well as vitamins, essential amino acids and polyphenols.

There’s evidence it has been harvested by humans for food and medicinal purposes for thousands for years. The Irish variant - scientifically known as Chondrus crispus - was notably cultivated during the Irish potato famine of 1845-1852; its nutrient-dense properties helping keep many alive during a period of devastating starvation.

In the current day, there’s early but promising research into the use of sea moss in preventing Parkinson's disease, boosting the immune system, and supporting thyroid health.

Cosmetically, sea moss has a rich history of use in skincare, particularly in Ireland, East Asia and the Caribbean.

Far from an overnight celebrity, it’s long been a mainstay of traditional hair and skin preparations and natural skincare products.

Due to its mucilaginous (aka thick and gel-like) nature, sea moss has both a high moisture content itself and also acts as a humectant to lock in moisture - helping to keep hair soft and smooth and skin hydrated and plump.

Sea moss is rich in sulphur, which has anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties that can help keep the scalp clean and reduce dandruff. Its high iodine content can also assist in balancing the scalp’s natural oils.

Sea moss contains folic acids and fatty acids that stimulate cell division and nourish the scalp. It’s also rich in essential nutrients like zinc and selenium, which are known to support strong hair follicles.

An abundance of vitamins A and E in sea moss provides a natural shine to your hair. These vitamins help smooth the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and lending a glassy, glossy finish.

Naturally anti-inflammatory thanks to an abundance of polyphenols, sea moss can help soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and ease the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis.

Vitamins A and K, along with potassium, also play well together to help combat environmental stressors.

While we absolutely do not recommend slapping sea moss gel on yourself in lieu of sunscreen, there is credible, albeit early, research showing it could help prevent UV damage, thanks in particular to a free-radical-fighting antioxidant called fucoidan. This research has exciting potential for UV-protective haircare, so watch this space!