What Is Pleurochrysis Carterae Extract?
Pleurochrysis Carterae Extract comes from Pleurochrysis carterae, a single-celled marine alga that thrives in clean coastal waters. The extract is a mix of water-binding polysaccharides, proteins, minerals and amino acids, along with a small amount of nourishing lipids. Marine algae first attracted cosmetic formulators in the 1990s when researchers noticed their ability to survive harsh salt, sun and tide conditions. Over the following decades, gentle extraction techniques made it possible to capture those survival molecules for skin care.
To produce the extract, cultivated algal biomass is harvested, rinsed and mechanically broken to open the sturdy cell walls. The slurry is then filtered to remove debris, followed by low-heat concentration to preserve heat-sensitive compounds. Some manufacturers finish with spray drying to create a fine powder that is easy to dose during production.
Thanks to its light texture and water-loving nature, Pleurochrysis Carterae Extract appears in hydrating serums, gel moisturizers, sheet masks, soothing after-sun lotions, eye creams, anti-aging concentrates and refreshing facial mists.
Pleurochrysis Carterae Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This marine ingredient earns its place on the label through two key roles:
- Humectant: The polysaccharide fraction pulls moisture from the environment and helps trap it in the upper layers of the skin, giving an instant plumping effect and reducing the look of fine lines caused by dehydration.
- Skin Conditioning: Proteins, amino acids and trace minerals support a softer, smoother feel, helping the skin surface stay supple while improving the glide and spreadability of a formula.
Who Can Use Pleurochrysis Carterae Extract
The extract’s light, water based profile makes it a good match for most skin types including dry, normal, oily and sensitive. Its humectant nature helps hydrate without leaving a greasy film so even breakout-prone skin can usually tolerate it. Those with a known allergy to marine algae or seaweed should avoid it as cross reactions are possible.
Because the ingredient is harvested from algae and no animal derivatives are involved in the extraction process it is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
Current research shows no evidence that Pleurochrysis Carterae Extract poses a risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when used topically. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should have their doctor review the full product ingredient list before use to be safe.
The extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, and it plays well with most other common skincare actives. It remains stable in a wide pH range, which helps formulators pair it with vitamin C, niacinamide or gentle exfoliating acids without issue.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can vary from person to person. The following points cover potential side effects linked to topical Pleurochrysis Carterae Extract though they are not expected to be the norm when the ingredient is used correctly in a well formulated product.
- Redness or irritation – very sensitive skin may react to naturally occurring minerals or proteins in the extract
- Allergic contact dermatitis – rare but possible in individuals with a pre-existing marine or algae allergy
- Breakouts in iodine sensitive users – marine extracts can carry trace iodine that may aggravate acne in a small group of people
- Itching or stinging – usually short lived and linked to compromised skin barrier or overuse of multiple actives
If you notice persistent discomfort or any unexpected reaction stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Pleurochrysis Carterae Extract is chiefly composed of water-loving polysaccharides and very low levels of lipids, so it does not form a heavy film that could clog pores. Any naturally occurring oils are present in trace amounts that rinse or absorb away easily. The small risk comes from those trace lipids and minerals that might linger on extremely oily skin, which is why it is rated a cautious 1 rather than 0.
This makes the extract generally appropriate for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind the final formula matters; if the extract is paired with heavier butters or waxes the product’s overall pore-clogging potential could rise.
Summary
Pleurochrysis Carterae Extract works as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent. Its polysaccharides draw moisture into the upper skin layers for a quick plumping hit while proteins, amino acids and minerals smooth the surface and support softness.
The ingredient is still a niche addition, found mainly in marine-themed lines and some Korean beauty formulas rather than in every drugstore moisturizer. As awareness of ocean-derived actives grows its use is slowly expanding.
Topically applied Pleurochrysis Carterae Extract is considered low risk, with rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to perform a small patch test when trying a product that contains it just to be safe.