Key Differences: ishga Anti-oxidant Marine Cream vs Balancing Marine Cream

New name, but same great formula. Our Balancing Marine Cream, formerly our Men’s Marine Cream, delivers many skincare benefits just like our Anti-oxidant Marine Cream. 

Our two award-winning formulas each have their own unique benefits based on their natural ingredients and essential oils. Let’s look into each to allow you to decide which one is more suitable for your skin type. 

Seaweed Extract 

Seaweed is one of the world’s most naturally abundant sources of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants and essential fatty acids.  

Our unique Hebridean seaweed extract is the cornerstone of our range. It’s extracted directly into Hebridean spring water using a low temperature extraction process, which protects the beneficial compounds and enzymes. Our process has been independently tested with outstanding results, rich in polyphenols for healthy skin. 

Antioxidant polyphenols provide protection against environmental damage to the skin by neutralising free radicals. Seaweed is an incredible marine plant which has been proven to regenerate skin cells, support collagen, contain detoxifying effects, supply a potent source of antioxidants, promotes hyaluronic acid production, and is a powerful hydrator for all skin types. 

We use Hebridean seaweed extract in both our Anti-oxidant Marine Cream and Balancing Marine Cream, but you will find a higher percentage of the extract in the Anti-oxidant Marine Cream, making it a slightly richer formula which may be suitable for those looking to add a moisture boost to skin whilst tackling fine lines and wrinkles.  

Read more about the incredible benefits of seaweed skincare here. 

Key ingredient differences 

Our Anti-oxidant and Balancing Marine Creams both feature similar moisturising bases, with slightly different essential oils. Knowing the unique benefits of these ingredients will help you choose the best ishga Marine Cream for you. 

Bergamot 

Bergamot is an essential oil extracted from the rind of oranges, used in both our Marine Creams, however you will find 4x more in our Anti-oxidant Marine Cream. It’s a popular oil used in skincare formulas due to the calming and soothing effects it has on skin. The oil has antiseptic and antibacterial properties which make it an ideal ingredient to aid with skin conditions such as acne. It has astringent properties which help to tighten pores and reduce excess sebum production, making it ideal for those who have oily skin. 

Patchouli 

Patchouli oil is made from the leaves of the Pogostemon Cablin plant. This essential oil is found in our Balancing Marine Cream. It is known for its detoxifying and anti-ageing properties. The oil will help to regenerate the epidermis while the active compounds help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is also useful in soothing dry, irritated skin and it contains anti-inflammatory properties which can help to reduce irritation. 

Sandalwood 

Sandalwood essential oil comes from sandalwood trees, mainly from Indian and Australian species. The oil is extracted from the wood by steam distillation. The oil has anti-inflammatory properties and also contains antioxidant components. Sandalwood nourishes the skin and improves the elasticity of skin cells which can help in reducing the appearance of scars. The antioxidant properties help to maintain skin plumpness and also prevent wrinkles and fine lines. This is found in our  Balancing Marine Cream. 

Key ingredients in both our Marine Creams 

• Apricot Kernel - Adds moisturising and protecting properties. 
• Cucumber extract - Hydrating, moisturising, cooling and soothing benefits. 
• Aloe vera - Hydrates, soothes and promotes skin renewal 
• Shea butter – Boosts skin moisture, contains anti-inflammatory properties and can heal skin. 
• Extract of macadamia - Contains essential fatty acids Omega 6 and 7, which absorb excess sebum while nourishing thirsty skin. 
• Citrus peel – Can reduce breakouts, improve pigmentation and reduce signs of ageing. 

Both of our Marine Creams are vegan and cruelty-free. 

Texture and consistency 

Our Anti-oxidant Marine Cream has a richer texture compared to our Balancing Marine Cream, which is more lightweight in consistency. If you have dry skin, you may find our Anti-oxidant Marine Cream more suitable for your needs as it will provide deep hydration. If you have sensitive or combination skin, you may benefit more from a lightweight mosituriser like the Balancing Marine Cream.  

Still unsure? 

Both our Marine Creams will deliver excellent results, based on our unique Hebridean seaweed extract, and it’s down to personal preference to choose your favourite! If you aren’t sure yet, both formulas are available in 30ml size to try out first. 

If you have any skincare questions you can get in touch here. We also have one to one virtual skincare consultations available to book with one of our trained ishga skincare therapists who can talk through your skin needs and provide tailored advice via a video call. Find out more here.