ACTIVE
Marine Ferment Extract
A fermented extract of a deep-sea marine bacterium, used alongside richer moisturisers to help skin look firmer and more resilient over time.
Source
Fermented marine bacterium (Alteromonas)
Used for
The look of firmer, more resilient skin
How it works
Alteromonas macleodii is a bacterium first identified in seawater near deep-sea hydrothermal vents. Alteromonas Ferment Extract, the name that appears on ingredient lists, is the filtrate produced when this marine bacterium is fermented. It is rich in exopolysaccharides, the long-chain sugars the bacterium produces to survive in its environment.
In laboratory research on human skin cells, Alteromonas Ferment Extract supported the activity associated with firm, resilient-looking skin (Gedik, 2025).
It is typically used at low levels alongside richer moisturising ingredients rather than on its own, and suits most skin types for daily use.
In laboratory research on human skin cells, Alteromonas Ferment Extract supported the activity associated with firm, resilient-looking skin (Gedik, 2025).
It is typically used at low levels alongside richer moisturising ingredients rather than on its own, and suits most skin types for daily use.
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Studied on human skin cells in the lab for a firmer-looking, smoother-looking complexion
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Made by fermenting a deep-sea marine bacterium that produces long-chain sugars
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A gentle marine-derived active suited to daily use
Questions
What is Alteromonas ferment extract?
It is an ingredient made by fermenting Alteromonas, a marine bacterium. One strain, Alteromonas macleodii, was found in fluid collected near an active deep-sea hydrothermal vent, and it secretes an unusual, long-chain sugar called an exopolysaccharide, with a thickness similar to xanthan gum. (Raguénès et al., 1996)
Is marine ferment extract the same as seaweed or algae extract?
No. Despite the marine name, Alteromonas is a deep-sea bacterium rather than a seaweed or alga. (Raguénès et al., 1996)
Is there research on it for skin?
Yes. Laboratory research on skin cells has looked at Alteromonas ferment extract and the activity linked to firm, resilient-looking skin, which is why it is used in formulas for a smoother, more resilient look. (Gedik, 2025)
Where it comes from
Alteromonas macleodii subspecies fijiensis was first described in 1996 from fluid collected near an active hydrothermal vent on the deep-sea floor. It produces a long-chain sugar, or polysaccharide, built from natural sugars such as glucose, mannose and galactose. (Raguénès et al., 1996)
The research
- Gedik G. Formulation of an anti-aging cream containing Alteromonas ferment extract and evaluation of the effect on collagen concentration. Journal of Research in Pharmacy. 2025;27(2). (opens in a new tab)
- Raguénès G, Pignet P, Gauthier G, Peres A, Christen R, Rougeaux H, Barbier G, Guezennec J. Description of a new polymer-secreting bacterium from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent, Alteromonas macleodii subsp. fijiensis, and preliminary characterization of the polymer. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 1996;62(1):67-73 (opens in a new tab)
- Rougeaux H, Talaga P, Carlson RW, Guezennec J. Structural studies of an exopolysaccharide produced by Alteromonas macleodii subsp. fijiensis originating from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent. Carbohydrate Research, 1998;312(1-2):53-59 (opens in a new tab)
Found In
Type: Face Care
Phyto-Retinol Refining Moisturiser
50mlRegular price £38.00Sale price Regular price
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