What it is
Plankton extract is sourced from marine plankton and supplies a mix of water-soluble compounds such as amino acids, sugars, and minerals depending on the source organisms and processing. In cosmetics it is used as a skin-conditioning agent, often featured in formulas with a marine or hydrating positioning. It is typically added at low levels within the water phase.
Safety & warnings
Marine extracts are generally well tolerated, though their composition can vary by source, so sensitive individuals may wish to patch test. It is not a comedogenic oil and is not a recognized fragrance allergen. It is used at low levels in leave-on skincare without notable irritation concerns.
Origin & sourcing
Marine-derived. It is obtained from plankton, the microscopic aquatic organisms that drift in seawater; specific source species and cultivation methods vary by supplier.
Questions everyone asks
Where does plankton extract come from?
It is a marine-derived ingredient obtained from plankton, the microscopic organisms found in seawater.
Does plankton extract offer sun protection?
No. It is a conditioning ingredient and is not a UV filter.