French marine skincare and spa brand Phytomer has unveiled a new facial serum, Oligoperformance, formulated with marine exosomes designed to help the skin fight oxidative stress — a key driver of premature ageing.
Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals, highly reactive and unstable molecules, damage skin cells. These free radicals are commonly generated by exposure to ultraviolet radiation, pollution, smoking, stress and other modern lifestyle factors. Over time, this process contributes to wrinkles, loss of firmness and the formation of dark spots.
At the core of the new formula are exosomes extracted from an ancient blue microalgae, Phormidium persicinum. Phytomer says these “messenger cells” stimulate the antioxidant molecule thioredoxin, which plays a critical role in activating the skin’s natural repair mechanisms.
According to the company, the marine exosomes help protect collagen and elastin fibres while reducing carbonylation — the oxidation of skin proteins caused by UV exposure — which accelerates visible ageing.
The serum also contains a firming extract of red coral, which is said to revitalise fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen, helping to redensify the dermis. Additional ingredients include sea lily and vitamin B, which work to target pigmentation and promote a more even skin tone.
Dr Céline Laperdrix, Phytomer’s research and innovation director, said the product was developed in response to the increasing environmental and lifestyle pressures placed on the skin.
“Today, our skin is subjected to unprecedented stress from environmental factors such as pollution, UV radiation, screen exposure, sleep deprivation and lifestyle-related stress,” she told Spa Business. “As we are all affected by this oxidative stress, we wanted to create a formula that doesn’t just care for the skin on the surface, but supports it in defending itself every single day.”
She added that marine exosomes form the backbone of the new technology. “Derived from a remarkable ancestral blue microalgae, they are present in an extraordinary concentration — thirty million marine exosomes in every 30ml bottle. This powerful antioxidant molecule, which is naturally found in the skin, is capable of reactivating the cellular repair system. As a result, this antioxidant serum is both a preventing and correcting one, helping protect against free-radical damage while preserving the skin’s youthfulness and firmness.”
Oligoperformance is available in a 30ml retail dropper bottle priced at €88 including tax, while a 50ml professional version costs €60.50 excluding tax.
