Blue Thistle, a moisturising and skin-recharging active ingredient.

A hardy coastal plant, recognizable by its rounded bluish flower and spiny green leaves, the Blue Thistle (Eryngium maritimum or Sea Holly) is a protected species. Rich in nutrients, it is also a botanical active ingredient used in many marine skincare products. We invite you to learn more about this remarkable dune plant — renowned for its exceptional resilience and beneficial properties for the skin.

Blue Thistle: a resilient plant adapted to the extreme conditions of coastal life

Blue thistle, also known as sea holly (Panicaut maritime), grows naturally on the sandy dunes of the French coastline, from the English Channel to the Mediterranean — including the shores of Brittany. Firmly anchored in the sand by a highly developed root system, it thrives in the extreme conditions of the seaside and is therefore considered an extremophile plant.

Exposed to intense summer sunlight, winter winds and salt-laden air — particularly on the Pen Lan peninsula in Brittany — blue thistle has developed an exceptional ability to adapt and survive in harsh environments.

Easily recognisable on coastal walks, blue thistle stands between 30 and 60 centimetres tall and is characterised by its deeply serrated, spiny green leaves. From June to September, it blooms, revealing striking spherical flowers in shades of azure and violet nestled at the heart of its foliage.

Protected by the Conservatoire du Littoral, of which it has become an emblematic species, blue thistle is safeguarded from trampling and uncontrolled harvesting. This protection ensures the preservation of the plant while allowing us to benefit from its remarkable natural properties.

Constantly challenged by a demanding natural environment, sea holly has developed unique adaptive mechanisms that allow it to maintain a rich reservoir of nutrients. It is a true botanical treasure for the formulation of high-performance cosmetic products.

Moisturising and nourishing: the cosmetic benefits of sea holly

Blue thistle is used to create deeply moisturising and nourishing skincare. Exceptionally rich in essential fatty acids and vital nutrients, this powerful plant active ingredient stimulates skin cell activity, encouraging the natural production of lipids and structural proteins such as collagen, elastin and keratin.

It also supports the synthesis of sugars such as hyaluronic acid. Together, these elements help strengthen the skin’s structure, improving firmness while restoring suppleness and a smooth, refined texture.

With its nourishing and hydrating properties, blue thistle is an invaluable ally for damaged and very dry skin. It helps restore elasticity and firmness, leaving the skin visibly repaired, plumped and revitalised. Facial features appear smoother, the complexion looks brighter, and the skin radiates renewed vitality.

Enriched with our exclusive Algo4 complex, the Vagues facial skincare range harnesses the benefits of blue thistle to deliver comfort and nourishment to even the driest skin — like a wave of refreshing hydration.

Discover our serums, exfoliators, day and night creams, and nourishing masks for skin that feels fresher, smoother and visibly firmer.