By Liane Scior
Director of Education

Phytomer’s newest launch, Accept CICA, is a thoughtful response to one of the biggest shifts we’re seeing in clinic today, the rise in sensitised, reactive, and barrier-compromised skin.

Whether it’s from over-exfoliation, aesthetic treatments, environmental exposure, or simply modern lifestyle stressors, more clients are presenting with skin that is no longer functioning optimally. And when the barrier is impaired, everything changes, hydration drops, inflammation increases, and tolerance to actives becomes significantly reduced.

This is where marine ingredients really stand apart. The ocean is incredibly rich in minerals, trace elements, and bioactive compounds that closely resemble what our skin naturally needs to function properly. Because of this, marine-derived ingredients tend to be highly bioavailable and exceptionally well tolerated, making them ideal for skins that are fragile, reactive, or in recovery mode.

At the heart of Accept CICA is Organic Fermented Codium, a green algae that has been fermented to enhance its potency and skin compatibility. Fermentation is key here, it breaks the ingredient down into smaller, more active molecules, allowing for better penetration and efficacy. Codium works by supporting the skin’s natural barrier function, helping to stimulate lipid production and strengthen the structure of the stratum corneum. For sensitised skin, this means less water loss, improved hydration, and a stronger defence against external irritants.

Another standout is Phyco-Defense, which takes a slightly different approach by focusing on the skin’s reactivity pathways. Many clients describe sensitive skin as feeling hot, tight, or prickly, and this often comes down to neurogenic inflammation. Phyco-Defense helps to regulate these responses, essentially calming the communication signals that trigger discomfort. This makes it particularly valuable post-treatment, or for clients prone to flare-ups where the skin feels unpredictable and easily triggered.

Brown algae phycosaccharides bring in that essential hydration and protection element. These act like a breathable, biomimetic shield on the skin’s surface, helping to lock in moisture while protecting against environmental stressors. At the same time, they function as powerful humectants, drawing water into the skin and maintaining hydration levels, which is critical when the barrier is compromised. Well-hydrated skin is always more resilient, and this ingredient plays a key role in restoring that balance.

One of the more innovative inclusions is Weaving Algae Oil, which works deeper within the skin’s lipid structure. Think of it as reinforcing the “cement” between skin cells. It mimics the skin’s natural intercellular lipids and helps to rebuild cohesion within the barrier. As this structure becomes more intact, the skin becomes smoother, stronger, and far less reactive over time. It’s a beautiful example of how marine lipids can be used to truly repair, not just soothe.

Finally, plant-based squalane rounds out the formulation with its well-known ability to replenish and soften without overwhelming the skin. Because it is so similar to the skin’s own sebum, it integrates seamlessly, providing nourishment while maintaining a lightweight, breathable finish. For sensitised skins that can’t tolerate heavier occlusives, this is an ideal way to restore comfort and flexibility.

What makes Accept CICA particularly valuable in a professional setting is that it doesn’t just offer short-term relief. It supports long-term barrier repair while actively reducing sensitivity triggers, making it suitable across a wide range of clients, from post-procedure recovery to those with chronic sensitivity or impaired skin function.

As therapists, we’re increasingly moving away from aggressive correction and toward rebuilding skin health from the inside out. This line fits perfectly into that philosophy, combining advanced marine science with a deep understanding of how sensitised skin behaves.