What it is
This material is created by fermenting Euglena, a single-celled photosynthetic microorganism, in the presence of oleic acid. The resulting ferment is used in skincare as a conditioning ingredient that contributes lipids and biomass-derived components to the formula. Euglena is valued in cosmetics for its content of beta-glucan (paramylon) and fatty acids.
Safety & warnings
As an oleic-acid-containing ferment, it includes an unsaturated fatty acid that can be comedogenic and may not suit acne-prone skin at higher levels. It is generally well tolerated as a conditioning ingredient.
Origin & sourcing
Biotechnological; produced by fermentation of cultured Euglena microalgae together with oleic acid, a common unsaturated fatty acid.
Questions everyone asks
What is Euglena?
Euglena is a single-celled microalga grown in culture; it is used in cosmetics and supplements for its beta-glucan and fatty-acid content.
How is this ingredient made?
It is produced by fermenting Euglena biomass with oleic acid to yield a lipid-rich conditioning material.