Fish Vitreous Humor Extract: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Fish Vitreous Humor Extract?

Fish Vitreous Humor Extract is obtained from the clear gel that fills the eye of tuna. This gel is rich in water bound to proteins, collagen like fibers and sugar based molecules that hold moisture. Together they create a lightweight fluid that feels similar to the natural fluids that cushion human skin cells.

Coastal communities have long valued every part of the fish for its nourishing properties and early beauty recipes sometimes included fish gels for their skin softening feel. Modern labs picked up on this folk wisdom in the early 2000s when researchers looked for sustainable marine byproducts that could boost hydration. The result was a purified extract that meets today’s cosmetic safety and quality standards.

The extract is produced by collecting the vitreous humor from food grade tuna that has already been harvested for fillets. The material is chilled, screened to remove tissue fragments then gently treated with food safe enzymes. After fine filtration it is concentrated, adjusted to the right pH and preserved so it stays stable until it is blended into creams or serums.

Because of its silky texture and ability to bind water, Fish Vitreous Humor Extract is most often found in sheet masks, hydrating serums, anti aging moisturizers, after sun gels, eye area creams and other leave on treatments that aim to plump and comfort the skin.

Fish Vitreous Humor Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This marine derived extract offers several valuable actions when added to skincare formulas.

  • Humectant – Attracts water from the environment and deeper skin layers, helping skin look dewy and feel comfortably hydrated throughout the day
  • Skin Conditioning – Supports a smoother surface, improves softness and can reduce the rough feel that comes with dryness
  • Emollient – Forms a light film that fills in microscopic cracks, leaving skin feeling silky, flexible and better protected against moisture loss

Who Can Use Fish Vitreous Humor Extract

The ingredient’s light water binding nature makes it a good match for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and even oily skin that craves weightless hydration. It can also be suitable for mildly sensitive skin because it lacks harsh acids or fragrances. People with known fish or seafood allergies should avoid it since the protein traces could trigger a reaction.

Because it is sourced from tuna, Fish Vitreous Humor Extract is not appropriate for vegans or vegetarians who exclude animal derived ingredients. Those who keep kosher or halal diets may also choose to skip it for similar reasons.

Topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding is generally considered low risk as the molecules are large and stay on the skin’s surface. Still this is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should show any product containing the extract to a healthcare professional before use to be safe.

The extract does not increase photosensitivity so it can be used day or night without raising the risk of sun related irritation. As with any marine ingredient proper preservation is important so choose products from reputable brands that follow good manufacturing practices.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Fish Vitreous Humor Extract vary by individual. The points below list potential side effects but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated.

  • Allergic reaction in those with fish or shellfish sensitivities leading to redness itching or hives
  • Mild stinging or irritation on very compromised or freshly exfoliated skin if the formula has a high concentration
  • Breakouts or congestion in rare cases if the product’s overall recipe contains heavy occlusives alongside the extract
  • Unpleasant odor development if the product is old or has been stored improperly which can signal spoilage

If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 out of 5 – Fish Vitreous Humor Extract is primarily water bound to proteins with very little oil or wax. Because comedogenicity is driven by heavy or greasy molecules that can clog pores, this lightweight marine gel sits on the surface and is easily rinsed away. Its film-forming action is thin, breathable and unlikely to trap excess sebum or debris.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, especially when used in formulas that avoid heavy occlusives.

As with any ingredient the finished product formula matters. If combined with rich butters or thick silicones, overall pore-clogging risk can rise even though the extract itself is low.

Summary

Fish Vitreous Humor Extract functions as a humectant, skin conditioner and emollient. The sugar-rich proteins pull water into the skin, the collagen-like fibers smooth rough patches and the light film they form reduces moisture loss for a soft hydrated feel.

It remains a niche ingredient found mainly in marine-focused or luxury hydration lines rather than mass market products, partly due to sourcing limits and its animal origin.

Topical use is generally safe for most skin types aside from those with fish allergies. Formulas meeting good manufacturing practices show a low irritation profile but, as with any new skincare product, perform a small patch test first to be extra cautious.

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