What it is
This ingredient is produced by culturing Sphingomonas bacteria and collecting the extract from the fermentation, which is rich in polysaccharide and metabolite material. It is used in cosmetics as a moisturizing, skin-conditioning biotechnology ingredient that can help the skin feel hydrated and comfortable. In sunscreens it is a supporting active rather than a UV filter, and it is popular in formulas marketed as soothing.
Safety & warnings
Fermentation-derived extracts of this kind are generally well tolerated and are commonly chosen for soothing, hydrating formulas. As with any complex biological extract, sensitization cannot be entirely ruled out for predisposed individuals, and tolerability also depends on the rest of the formula.
Origin & sourcing
Biotechnological; obtained by fermenting Sphingomonas bacteria and processing the resulting culture into an extract.
Questions everyone asks
What is Sphingomonas ferment extract?
It is a biotechnology ingredient made by fermenting Sphingomonas bacteria, used as a moisturizing and skin-conditioning additive.
Does it provide sun protection?
No. It is a hydrating, skin-conditioning ingredient, not a UV filter.