Where Science Meets the Sea
Inside the world of ishga
There’s a certain stillness to the Outer Hebrides - wild, elemental, and quietly restorative.
It’s here, on the Isle of Lewis, that ishga was born - a Scottish skincare brand built on marine science, Hebridean seaweed, and a deep respect for nature.
This is skincare shaped by place. And backed by proof.
From island roots to spa-grade skincare
The story of ishga began in 2013, when Malcolm, a scientist, his wife Joanna, a beauty therapist, and Martin, a seaweed expert, joined forces to create result-driven skincare powered by Hebridean seaweed.
After returning home to the Isle of Lewis from the University of Glasgow, Malcolm Macrae worked first in pharmaceuticals and later in water testing, where he reunited with his old school friend, Martin Macleod. Martin had been working in a local seaweed factory, and the two began to explore the untapped potential of Hebridean seaweed. Knowing how exceptionally rich it is in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants - and with the skincare expertise of Malcolm’s wife Joanna- they started experimenting with ways to transform this remarkable marine ingredient into high-performance skincare.
Together, they set out to create results-driven skincare that delivered visible benefits - without compromising skin health, sustainability, or integrity.
Why Hebridean seaweed matters for skin
Hebridean seaweed is naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants - making it one of skincare’s most powerful natural actives.
ishga harvests fresh seaweed by hand from pristine shorelines, using it immediately to preserve potency. Only the quantities needed are taken, allowing natural regeneration and protecting marine biodiversity.
Alongside seaweed, ishga formulations use local spring well water and pure Hebridean seawater, both sourced from one of Europe’s most unspoilt environments.
This isn’t inspiration. It’s formulation.
Crafted for the world’s most prestigious spas
At the heart of ishga’s performance is its signature seaweed extract, created using a low-temperature process that protects delicate vitamins, minerals, and enzymes.
This commitment to skin results has earned ishga a place in leading spa destinations worldwide. Including luxury hotels and wellness retreats such as The Dorchester, London, and Conrad Tokyo.
For GlowFound members, that means something simple: spa-grade skincare, brought home.
The same formulations trusted by professional therapists are available in ishga’s retail range, designed to turn everyday routines into restorative rituals.
Sustainability, without compromise
ishga doesn’t treat sustainability as a marketing layer. It’s built into every decision - from certified biodynamic seaweed harvesting and Soil Association organic certification, to ISO 22716 manufacturing standards, local sourcing, and the exclusive use of Hebridean spring and seawater instead of tap water.
Nothing is added for show. Nothing is included without purpose.
How ishga wants you to feel
Using ishga is about more than skincare results.
It’s about feeling restored.
Grounded.
Calm in your skin.
Each product is designed to reconnect you with the rugged beauty of the Hebrides — transforming daily self-care into something deeply nourishing, both physically and emotionally.
Why we feature brands like ishga at GlowFound
At GlowFound, we exist to cut through the noise.
We look for brands that meet our standards - ingredient integrity, proven performance, and genuine differentiation.
ishga is a perfect example of what our members value most - Scottish, science-led, spa-grade skincare that delivers results without hype or compromise.
Exclusive for GlowFound members
To celebrate this Scottish Beauty Edit, GlowFound members have the chance to win £200 in ishga product vouchers, redeemable directly on the ishga website.
It’s our way of giving you access to brands - and experiences - you might not discover on your own.
Discover ishga’s full spa-grade skincare range at ishga.co.uk
Pure. Powerful. Rooted in Scotland.
This is ishga. And this is why GlowFound exists.