Cold Current Kelp
Cold Current Kelp is a women-owned Maine skincare brand that grows regenerative kelp and formulates clean facial oils and personal care products. Founded in 2021 by marine biologist Dr. Inga Potter and Krista Rosen, the company operates its own kelp farm off the coast of Kittery, Maine.
The Story
Cold Current Kelp is a women-owned skincare company based in Southern Maine that has built its entire brand around a single ingredient most beauty brands only mention on the label: kelp. Founded in 2021 by marine biologist Dr. Inga Potter and business strategist Krista Rosen, the company operates its own regenerative kelp farm off the coast of Kittery, Maine, giving it complete control over the ingredient from sea to skin.
What distinguishes Cold Current Kelp in the crowded clean beauty space is its vertical integration. Rather than sourcing kelp extract from third-party suppliers, the co-founders grow, harvest, dry, and formulate their own kelp-based products. Every batch of kelp is traceable to specific latitude and longitude coordinates in Maine waters, and the company performs heavy metal and safety testing in-house. This farm-to-formula approach allows the brand to verify its regenerative ocean farming claims and maintain strict quality standards.
The product line centers on the KelpGlow Facial Oil, available in several variants including Signature Citrus, Fragrance Free, and Coastal Lavender. These oils are formulated without dyes, preservatives, or artificial fragrance, aligning with the brand's "blue beauty" ethos. The company has also expanded into accessories and launched an Amazon store to reach customers beyond its original direct-to-consumer and regional retail base.
Cold Current Kelp's story is also notable because Dr. Inga Potter is both a co-founder and a guest on the podcast episode being enriched. Her scientific background in marine ecology and environmental science directly informs the brand's regenerative farming methodology, making the company a natural fit for a discussion about building a purpose-driven business around a personal passion.
Key Facts & Metrics
Products & Services
KelpGlow® Facial Oil (Coastal Lavender)
A calming facial oil combining regenerative Maine kelp extract with the soothing properties of coastal lavender. This nutrient-rich formula hydrates and balances skin while promoting relaxation. Like all Cold Current Kelp products, the kelp is traceable to Maine waters and the product is free from dyes, preservatives, and artificial fragrance.
KelpGlow® Facial Oil (Fragrance Free)
A pure, fragrance-free facial oil formulated with regenerative Maine kelp extract for sensitive skin. This gentle yet effective formula provides essential moisture and nutrients without added scents or irritants. Every batch is traceable to specific Maine coastal coordinates and tested for heavy metals and safety.
KelpGlow® Facial Oil (Signature Citrus)
A luxurious facial oil infused with regenerative Maine kelp extract and brightening citrus oils. This lightweight, fast-absorbing formula delivers deep hydration and a radiant glow while supporting marine regeneration. Made with traceable kelp harvested from Southern Maine waters, free from dyes, preservatives, and artificial fragrance.
Company Timeline
2021 â Founded in Kittery, Maine
Krista Rosen and Dr. Inga Potter founded Cold Current Kelp in 2021, combining Krista's background in law and climate policy with Inga's marine biology expertise. The co-founders launched the company with a mission to grow regenerative kelp in Maine waters and develop clean, effective skincare products.
2021 â Launched KelpGlow Facial Oil
The company introduced its flagship product, KelpGlow Facial Oil, developed in-house by chemist Kirsten Thomas and chemical engineer Bob Leipold. The formula uses traceable, regeneratively farmed Maine kelp extract as the core ingredient.
2023 â Expanded Product Line and Retail Presence
Cold Current Kelp expanded its skincare line to include multiple scented variants of KelpGlow Facial Oil and launched accessories including tote bags and trucker hats. The brand secured placement in Maine-based retail locations and grew its direct-to-consumer Shopify business.
2024 â Amazon Store Launch
Cold Current Kelp launched its official Amazon storefront, making its kelp-based skincare products available to a national audience. This marked a significant expansion beyond the brand's original direct-to-consumer and regional retail channels.
