What Is Alteromonas Exopolysaccharides?
Alteromonas Exopolysaccharides are long chain sugars released by the marine bacterium Alteromonas during controlled fermentation. Harvested from seawater environments, these polysaccharides form a natural gel that holds moisture around the bacteria, a trait that makes them valuable for skin care. After scientists noticed the protective film these sugars created in their ocean habitat, researchers began exploring the same shielding effect for human skin.
To obtain the ingredient for cosmetics, Alteromonas cultures are grown in stainless-steel fermenters filled with a nutrient solution. As the bacteria multiply they secrete exopolysaccharides into the liquid. The broth is then filtered to remove the cells, purified, concentrated and finally dried into a fine powder that is easy to add to creams or serums.
You will most often see Alteromonas Exopolysaccharides in hydrating masks, daily moisturizers, anti-aging serums, soothing after-sun lotions and barrier-support treatments. Its film-forming nature also makes it popular in primers and makeup products that aim to smooth the skin surface.
Alteromonas Exopolysaccharides’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas Alteromonas Exopolysaccharides serve one key role.
Skin conditioning: The polysaccharides sit on the skin as an invisible breathable veil that locks in water, softens rough patches and helps calm temporary redness. By reinforcing the surface barrier they leave skin feeling smooth and supple while giving products a silky glide during application.
Who Can Use Alteromonas Exopolysaccharides
This marine derived sugar suits most skin types, especially dry, sensitive and mature skin that benefit from extra moisture retention. Its lightweight film does not typically clog pores so even combination or oily skin can tolerate it, though very acne prone users may prefer spot testing formulas that pair it with richer oils. Because the ingredient is obtained through bacterial fermentation and involves no animal material it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians, provided the finished product does not include other animal derived additives.
Current data show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is applied topically. It sits on the surface, is not known to penetrate deeply and shows no hormone disrupting activity. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run the full product list by their doctor to be safe.
Alteromonas Exopolysaccharides do not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so they are fine for daytime use without extra sun precautions beyond a regular sunscreen. The ingredient is also stable across a broad pH range and pairs well with common actives like vitamin C or retinoids without losing efficacy or causing degradation.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Alteromonas Exopolysaccharides vary from person to person. The points below outline potential reactions but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used at cosmetic levels in a well formulated product.
- Transient redness or stinging in very sensitive skin
- Mild itching or tightness if the film forming layer is too thick
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to polysaccharides
- Product pilling when layered with heavy silicone primers
- Breakouts if combined with highly comedogenic oils in the same formula
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Alteromonas Exopolysaccharides are water soluble polysaccharides that sit on the skin as a light breathable film rather than seeping into pores or adding oil. This structure means they have a very low tendency to trap sebum or dead cells, earning a rating of 1. The only time they might contribute to congestion is when used in formulas packed with heavy butters or silicones because the combined layers can feel occlusive.
Overall this ingredient is considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Because Alteromonas Exopolysaccharides are not oils they do not interfere with most acne treatments and can even help reduce dryness from actives like benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
Summary
Alteromonas Exopolysaccharides condition the skin by forming a soft micro-thin veil that locks in moisture, smooths surface texture and calms temporary redness. Their long sugar chains attract water and then hold it against the epidermis while reinforcing the barrier so skin feels supple and looks refreshed.
The ingredient has gained steady popularity in hydrating masks, anti-aging serums and makeup primers, especially within marine inspired and biotech-driven skincare lines, though it is still less common than classic humectants like hyaluronic acid.
Safety data show it is non toxic, non irritating for most users and vegan friendly when sourced as a purified ferment. Even so skin is personal so it is smart to patch test any new product containing Alteromonas Exopolysaccharides before applying it to the entire face.