Glasswort can be found along all the shorelines of Europe and every year it produces cylindrical branches that resemble a type of ragged cactus. Beneath this ragged exterior, the plant has developed quite a remarkable biological organization - it is halophilic (it likes salt) and perfectly able to survive in its harsh coastline conditions. It also resists tidal flows by regulating the water level in its cells. Used as a food because of its high content of vitamins and minerals, glasswort also produces an oil which is perfectly suitable for use in skin care. In cosmetics, glasswort extract helps retain water in epidermal cells to provide skin with optimal moisturisation. The extract used by Clarins Laboratories is organic.