How Osea Lets Ocean Heal You
By Hannah Sellers
As a native Californian, Osea has always caught my eye because of its authentic embodiment of a coastal aesthetic. When one opens an Osea package, the brand’s commitment to thoughtful design is evident: frosted glass bottles that feel substantial and luxurious in an era of ubiquitous plastic, minimalist packaging that reflects a genuine investment in sustainability rather than greenwashing, and citrus aromas that transport the mind to a spa in a single inhale. For those who prioritize clean ingredients, sustainability and efficacy, Osea represents a rare alignment of values and execution.
Since 1996, the Malibu-based skincare line has maintained the same principles: seaweed-based formulas, vegan and cruelty-free products, genuinely clean ingredients. Osea’s founder, Jenefer Palmer, built the brand on a family philosophy from her grandmother Elsa—one of the first female chiropractors in America. Bedridden from injury and unable to work, Elsa received a message in a dream: “The ocean will heal you.” She interpreted it literally, and began swimming in the Long Island Sound. Once she began the practice, she made a remarkable recovery. That conviction in the sea’s restorative properties became a generational wisdom that empowered Palmer to bring the ocean into skincare.
Today, Jenefer runs Osea alongside her daughter and CEO Melissa, preserving the brand’s ocean-first ethos and expanding their reach. As the brand approaches its 30th birthday, I spoke with Jenefer about her water-inspired rituals, the enduring power of seaweed and how she’s kept the brand true to its origins while guiding it gracefully into the future.
The Wake Edit: What is your go-to skincare routine for a day in the water?
Jenefer Palmer: My daily regimen is cleansing with our Ocean Cleansing Milk and misting my face with Sea Minerals Mist to replenish hydration. I then apply Hyaluronic Sea Serum, which helps to plump and smooth the complexion. To lock in moisture, I use Essential Hydrating Oil and finish with Advanced Protection Cream to protect my skin from environmental stressors. For a day in the water, I’m making sure to apply SPF and wear sun-protective clothing. Don’t forget to wear sun protection all year round!
TWE: Why was seaweed the ingredient you chose to anchor OSEA around?
JP: Seaweed has been at the heart of Osea from the very beginning. One of nature’s most incredible superfoods, it’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, and as an abundant, sustainable resource, it offers vast benefits for the skin. By anchoring Osea around seaweed, we create products that are not only effective but also sustainable and in harmony with nature.
TWE: Clean beauty has grown so much since OSEA began. How do you stay true to your roots while continuing to evolve?
JP: Clean beauty has evolved tremendously since we launched Osea, and it’s been incredible to watch the category grow. For us, staying true to our roots means honoring the same intentions we started with — creating skincare that is sustainable, clean, and vegan. As we turn 30 next year, our logo, packaging, and glass bottles have remained consistent, reflecting our commitment to integrity. At the same time, we continue to innovate by developing new formulations, expanding our product line, and exploring additional sustainable packaging options — so we can meet the needs of today’s conscious consumers. It’s all about balancing tradition with thoughtful evolution while staying true to our mission of effective, clean, and sustainable skincare.
TWE: What excites you most about the future of Osea?
JP: We’re excited to continue expanding into new product categories and to bring even more innovation to future launches. We look forward to expanding strategic collaborations and deepening Osea’s impact in ingredients and environmental advocacy—all while preserving the company’s core values. Of course, we’re looking forward to the brand’s 30th birthday as well!
