laminaria-ochroleuca Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract ( Antilikeune 6) is golden algae harvested off the Breton Islands. The sun’s rays cause the production of cytokines and prostaglandins responsible for inflammatory reactions or “sunburn”. Antileukine protects against this by greatly reducing the release of cytokines and prostaglandins and photo-damage. In all kinds of skin applications including solar/sun protection products, it provides effective protection. It is these lipids that enable the algae membranes to resist the oxidative stress encountered during photosynthesis and exposure to excessive sunlight. These same lipids are thought to be associated with the remarkable skin protection afforded by Antilekine 6 against sunlight. Extensive efficacy testing has shown that Antileukine 6 has the ability to inhibit the inflammatory mediators IL-1, IL-6 and PGE2 that are produced as a result of UV radiation. In addition, Studies on cell cultures of monocytes and dendritic cells clearly show that Antileukine 6 has a protective effect against UV-induced immune suppression. This immune protection capability enables UV-damaged cells to be eliminated more effectively. DNA damage by UV radiation is a key factor in development of skin cancer. Antileukine 6 has DNA protective properties, which have been demonstrated ex-vivo. Antileukine 6 enhanced the DNA protection of these formulations. Inclusion of Antileukine 6 into day care products is highly recommended to boost protection from solar radiation. An additional benefit of Antileukine 6 is its ability to help replenish the lipid barrier and optimize the moisture content of the epidermis. Optimizing the water content in turn leads to a smoother, more supple skin.