As illustrated in the simplified schematic, UVC rays (100-280 nm) are blocked by the Earth’s ozone layer. Approximately 5-10% of UVB rays (280-315 nm) cross the ozone layer and penetrate the epidermis (top layer of skin), leading to either direct or indirect DNA damage and increasing oxidative stress through reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. Nearly 95% of UVA rays (315-400 nm) pass the ozone layer and reach the skin, penetrating to the dermis (middle layer of skin). This causes several harmful effects on skin, mainly through oxidative stress caused by ROS. Increased ROS also leads to increases in matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) induced by nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB) and activation protein-1 (AP-1), both of which are transcription factors for pro-inflammatory cytokines. Skin inflammation also occurs through TNF-α and activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (including IL-1β and IL-8).
Our Science
10+ years exploring the ocean’s chemistry, backed by pioneering technology, has unlocked new solutions for health and wellness.
Evolutionary intelligence, decoded for your skin.
Over billions of years, marine ecosystems have become evolution’s most creative laboratory. Underwater life survives relentless UV, constant microbial threats, and fierce competition for resources.
To thrive, marine organisms have evolved extraordinary chemical strategies. Seaweeds generate molecular sunscreens, sponges produce powerful antimicrobial compounds, and corals maintain complex chemical communication networks.
These same survival molecules, honed over eons, hold incredible potential for human health. At TERNS, we translate the ocean’s time-tested chemistry into innovative solutions that support your skin’s resilience, recovery, and long-term vitality.
SCIENCE X NATURE
Discovery to Innovation
For over a decade, we’ve researched and catalogued the ocean’s chemical language using advanced computational metabolomics. Our technology platform allows us to map the comprehensive chemistry of marine life with human biology, creating profiles of nature’s most promising molecules.
By systematically identifying and refining these marine-derived ingredients, we optimize skincare solutions with the level of precision and effectiveness previously unimaginable.
Our Breakthrough Solution: The Sirenas Complex
After analyzing hundreds of marine extracts and thousands of associated molecules, we've developed our patent-pending Sirenas Complex - a unique blend of marine-derived ingredients designed to combat UV-induced skin damage and accelerated aging.
Our complex works on multiple levels:
+ Rebalances inflammatory pathways that accelerate aging
+ Neutralizes free radicals caused by UV exposure
+ Strengthens skin barrier function for resilient, healthy skin
The Science
Breakdown of the main culprits leading to premature aging and skin damage
Sun, Stress, and Skin: The Inflammaging Effect
An active lifestyle with consistent exposure to sun, wind and environmental stress can cause low-level chronic inflammation that accelerates signs of aging, affect your skin’s natural ability to recover and increase risk of other skin health issues like skin cancer.
UV Exposure Drives Up to 90% of Skin Aging
UV Exposure Drives Up to 90% of Skin Aging
Did you know that 80–90% of visible skin aging comes from the sun? Protecting your skin isn’t just about avoiding sunburn—it’s about combating the leading cause of premature aging.
Even with proper sun protection, daily exposure to UV and environmental stressors creates low-level, chronic inflammation that accelerates visible signs of aging, also known as photoaging. Over time, this accumulated stress to your skin can compromise overall skin health.
Consistent exposure to sun + elements leads to excess:
Meet the Scientists Behind Terns
Eduardo Esquenazi, PhD
TERNS FOUNDER AND CEO / SIRENAS CO-FOUNDER
Biomedical researcher with 20+ years transforming nature's chemistry into groundbreaking health solutions.
Phil Baran, PhD
TERNS ADVISOR / SIRENAS CO-FOUNDER
MacArthur Fellow and world-leading organic chemist advancing sustainable, nature-derived innovations.
Paige Stout, PhD
TERNS PRODUCT INNOVATION
Expert in marine natural products chemistry leading Terns' research and product innovation.
Neal Bhatia, MD
TERNS ADVISOR
Board-certified dermatologist overseeing clinical studies and advising on product formulation and claims.
Michael Howell, PhD
TERNS ADVISOR
Immunologist with 10+ clinical therapies to his credit, guiding Terns' research and product development.