What Is Sea Water/Phellinus Linteus Ferment Extract Filtrate?
Sea Water/Phellinus Linteus Ferment Extract Filtrate is a skin care ingredient born from the natural fermentation of mineral-rich sea water with the medicinal mushroom Phellinus linteus. During fermentation the mushroom’s enzymes break down its own cell walls, releasing beta-glucans, polyphenols and peptides while the sea water contributes magnesium, calcium and trace elements. Once the process completes the mixture is extracted then finely filtered to remove solids, yielding a clear liquid concentrate ready for cosmetic use.
Fermented botanicals first gained popularity in Korean beauty labs looking for gentler yet more potent actives. Phellinus linteus, prized in East Asian herbal traditions, joined the trend thanks to its antioxidant and soothing reputation. Blending it with sea water provided a stable fermentation medium and an extra dose of skin-friendly minerals, so formulators soon adopted the filtrate for hydration and barrier support.
The ingredient now appears in a variety of products such as hydrating sheet masks, anti-aging serums, daily moisturizers, facial mists, soothing gels and overnight ampoules where it serves as a multitasking hydrator and skin conditioner.
Sea Water/Phellinus Linteus Ferment Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this ferment filtrate delivers two main functions that translate into visible skin benefits:
- Humectant – draws water from the environment and the deeper layers of skin into the surface, helping to keep the complexion plump, soft and comfortably hydrated throughout the day
- Skin conditioning – supplies minerals, amino acids and beta-glucans that support the skin barrier, soothe mild irritation and leave the surface feeling smooth and supple
Who Can Use Sea Water/Phellinus Linteus Ferment Extract Filtrate
This ferment filtrate is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily because its main roles are lightweight hydration and barrier support. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well thanks to the soothing beta-glucans, although anyone with a known mushroom allergy should proceed cautiously as the source organism is a fungus.
The ingredient is plant-derived and contains no animal by-products so it is acceptable for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current research shows no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the filtrate is used topically in cosmetic amounts. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm product choices with a qualified healthcare provider.
Sea Water/Phellinus Linteus Ferment Extract Filtrate does not make skin more prone to sunburn and has no reported effect on photosensitivity. It also plays nicely with most other common actives, making it easy to slot into existing routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical ingredients vary. The following list covers potential but uncommon reactions associated with Sea Water/Phellinus Linteus Ferment Extract Filtrate when used in finished products. Most people will not experience these issues if the formula is properly made and used as directed.
- Redness or flushing – usually mild and short-lived if it occurs
- Itching or stinging – possible in highly sensitive or compromised skin
- Contact dermatitis – rare cases linked to an allergy to Phellinus species or fermentation by-products
- Hives – very uncommon but may appear in individuals with mushroom allergies
If any of these reactions develop stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1
Sea Water/Phellinus Linteus Ferment Extract Filtrate is primarily water with soluble minerals, amino acids, beta-glucans and small peptides, none of which are known to clog pores. It is lightweight, absorbs quickly and leaves no oily film, so the risk of trapping sebum or dead skin cells is very low. For these reasons formulators generally regard it as non-comedogenic, sometimes granting a cautious 1 because fermentation can leave microscopic residues that might bother extremely reactive skin.
Acne-prone users can typically use products containing this filtrate without worrying about new breakouts.
Formulation quality still matters; if the overall product is heavy in waxes or butters the finished item, not the ferment, could raise the pore-clogging potential.
Summary
Sea Water/Phellinus Linteus Ferment Extract Filtrate works as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent. Its cocktail of sea-derived minerals pulls moisture into the outer skin layers while mushroom-released beta-glucans and peptides calm irritation and reinforce the barrier, leaving skin hydrated, smooth and resilient.
The ingredient enjoys moderate popularity, especially in K-beauty serums and masks that highlight fermented actives, though it is still a niche pick compared with classics like hyaluronic acid.
Current data shows it is safe for most skin types with very few reported side effects. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to do a patch test before full-face use to make sure your skin agrees with it.