Lactobacillus/Glucose/Hydrolyzed Sea Urchin Roe Ferment Filtrate: 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: July 1, 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 Lactobacillus/Glucose/Hydrolyzed Sea Urchin Roe Ferment Filtrate?

Lactobacillus/Glucose/Hydrolyzed Sea Urchin Roe Ferment Filtrate starts its life in the ocean, coming from the roe of sea urchins. The roe is first broken down into smaller pieces through a process called hydrolysis, making its proteins and sugars easier to work with. This hydrolysate is then mixed with glucose and introduced to Lactobacillus, a friendly type of bacteria often used in yogurt making. During fermentation the bacteria digest the mixture, releasing skin-loving compounds and creating a nutrient-rich liquid. Once fermentation is finished, the blend is filtered to remove any solid bits, leaving a clear filtrate that can be added to skincare formulas.

Seafood-inspired skincare may sound new, yet marine extracts have been popular in beauty for decades. Brands looking for fresher, more exotic ingredients turned to sea urchin roe in the last few years because it is packed with amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Fermentation boosts its skin benefits while cutting down potential irritation, a method borrowed from traditional food preservation that has become a rising trend in cosmetics.

The filtrate’s ability to draw and hold water makes it valuable for products focused on hydration and smoothing. You will most often spot it in lightweight serums, sheet masks, hydrating essences, gel moisturizers and anti-aging creams where a dewy finish is desired without heavy oils.

Lactobacillus/Glucose/Hydrolyzed Sea Urchin Roe Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is prized for one key role in skincare formulas.

As a humectant it attracts water from the environment and pulls it into the upper layers of skin. This surge of moisture helps soften rough patches, plumps up fine lines and leaves the complexion looking fresh and supple. By keeping the skin’s surface hydrated it also supports a smoother texture and can enhance the spreadability of the overall product, making creams and gels feel lighter and more comfortable during wear.

Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Glucose/Hydrolyzed Sea Urchin Roe Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate suits most skin types, especially dry, normal and combination skin that crave extra hydration. Oily skin can also benefit because the ingredient is water based and light, though those who want a strictly matte finish might prefer a different moisturizer. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well since fermentation tends to break down larger molecules into gentler forms, yet anyone with a known seafood allergy should approach with caution.

The roe comes from sea urchins so the ingredient is not suitable for vegans or strict vegetarians who avoid animal derived materials. Pescatarians and consumers comfortable with marine sourced ingredients may have no ethical issue using it.

No data suggests the filtrate poses a risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically. It is not known to penetrate deeply or influence hormones, still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare product past a doctor just to be safe.

The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity so there is no special need for additional sun precautions beyond normal daily sunscreen use.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical use of Lactobacillus/Glucose/Hydrolyzed Sea Urchin Roe Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions only and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.

  • Mild redness or stinging on very sensitive or compromised skin
  • Allergic response such as itching or hives in individuals with seafood allergies
  • Contact dermatitis if combined with other irritating ingredients or if the product is formulated with high levels of fragrance or alcohol
  • Pimple like bumps if the overall formula is too rich for the user’s skin type, though the filtrate itself is not oily

If any negative reaction occurs stop use immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5. Lactobacillus/Glucose/Hydrolyzed Sea Urchin Roe Ferment Filtrate is water based and oil free, so it does not clog pores or leave a residue that could trap dead skin cells. Its main role is to pull moisture into the skin rather than sit on top of it which keeps pores clear.

Because of this it is generally safe for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.

The final product formula still matters. If the filtrate is paired with heavy oils or waxes the overall product could become pore clogging even though this single ingredient is not.

Summary

Lactobacillus/Glucose/Hydrolyzed Sea Urchin Roe Ferment Filtrate acts mainly as a humectant. It draws water from the air and deeper skin layers into the surface, boosting hydration, smoothing rough spots and giving skin a plump look. Fermentation breaks down sea urchin roe proteins into smaller parts that hold water easily and are gentle on the skin.

While marine ferments are gaining attention, this specific filtrate is still a niche pick used mostly by indie and prestige brands looking for standout ingredients. You will not see it in every drugstore lotion yet but its popularity is growing as more companies experiment with ocean sourced actives.

Topical use is considered low risk for most people. Reported issues are rare and usually linked to seafood allergies or very sensitive skin. As with any new skincare product it is smart to do a quick patch test before full use just to stay on the safe side.

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