What’s Cooking at ARS: Introducing Porphose, a New Spin-Off Using Porphyridium for Skin Health

At Algae Research and Supply (ARS), we explore practical applications for microalgae in science, industry, and education. One of our most promising research paths involves Porphyridium, a unicellular red algae known for producing complex extracellular compounds. These compounds: especially those present in its culture medium: have shown utility in topical applications.

This research led to the formation of Porphose, a new spin-off brand dedicated to developing skin-compatible products using Porphyridium Conditioned Media (PCM).

What is PCM (Porphyridium Conditioned Media)?

PCM is the aqueous solution collected from Porphyridium cultures following growth and bioaccumulation. It contains:

• Sulfated exopolysaccharides (s-EPSs): molecules with moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and barrier-supporting properties

• Polysaccharides and peptides: shown in studies to support wound healing and tissue regeneration

These compounds are not extracted or synthesized: they are present in the media naturally during culture maintenance. The resulting solution is sterile-filtered and incorporated directly into formulations.

Current Products Using PCM

Porphose has launched with three formulations, each focused on minimalism, skin compatibility, and functionality:

1. Porphose Eczema Relief
A topical gel designed for contact dermatitis and eczema-related irritation.

• Fragrance-free: steroid-free

• Contains only essential ingredients

• Designed to reduce visible inflammation and improve skin hydration

2. Porphose Skin Shielding Mist
A hydrating facial spray formulated for barrier support and daily use.

• Designed to reduce environmental irritation

• Lightweight and compatible with cosmetic layering

• Useful for sensitive or redness-prone skin types

3. Offshore Salt Spray
A hair and scalp product combining marine salt with PCM.

• Intended for texture styling while avoiding fragrance sensitizers

• Supports scalp comfort in sensitive individuals

• Contains no synthetic polymers or alcohols

Scientific Foundation and Mission Alignment

The decision to spin off Porphose aligns with ARS’s broader goal: to develop algae-based tools that provide environmental and health benefits. Porphyridium has been the subject of numerous studies for its exopolysaccharide production, antioxidant content, and capacity for stress resilience. Porphose applies these findings to non-pharmaceutical skincare contexts.

All formulations are designed with sensitivity in mind and developed in accordance with ARS’s commitment to sustainability, minimal ingredient profiles, and carbon-conscious sourcing.

Learn More

Porphose products are available at porphose.com and on Amazon.
Educational culture kits for Porphyridium are available through ARS.

If you are an educator or researcher interested in Porphyridium cultures or want to explore how PCM is produced, please contact us directly.

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