Science
Mechanism of Action
Enterococcus faecium, or its key components, functions as a probiotic by synthesizing bacteriocins that actively combat pathogenic microbes on the skin's surface. It forms a protective barrier by binding to skin cells, thereby competing with harmful microorganisms for vital resources and attachment sites, which effectively inhibits infection. Specific strains may also produce folate, a nutrient essential for optimal cell metabolism, division, and the synthesis of amino acids and vitamins. Preclinical research indicates its ability to enhance immune cell function and boost cell proliferation. More broadly, probiotic ingredients like Enterococcus faecium contribute to restoring an acidic skin pH, alleviating oxidative stress, reducing photodamage, and fortifying the skin's barrier function, leading to a balanced microbiome and diminished skin redness and sensitivity.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Topical application of a cell-free extract of Enterococcus faecalis SL-5 significantly reduced inflammatory acne lesions compared to placebo, suggesting its potential as an antibiotic alternative. A similar finding noted Enterococcus faecalis reduced acne by 50% in a human study.
- 02 A facial lotion containing a fermentation extract of Enterococcus faecalis CBT SL-5 resulted in significantly improved investigator-assessed facial acne compared to a control lotion.
- 03 An extract of Enterococcus faecium L-15 directly enhanced the self-renewal and proliferation of mouse skin-derived precursor cells by activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Enterococcus faecium, particularly in its non-viable forms (extracts, lysates), exhibits robust stability. It demonstrates tolerance to a wide range of pH conditions, with specific strains showing high acid tolerance at pH 3.0-4.0. Its active bacteriocin components are also known for good stability and resistance to high temperatures, as well as both acidic and alkaline environments. Certain strains also exhibit tolerance to alcohol.
Safety
Safety Profile
Enterococcus faecium has not undergone a formal review by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) or Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS). While the species can act as an opportunistic pathogen, specific probiotic strains used in cosmetics (typically as non-viable extracts or fermentation products) undergo extensive safety assessments. For instance, specific food-grade strains like Enterococcus faecium B13 and KQ 2.6 have been verified to lack major virulence genes and exhibit appropriate antibiotic susceptibility, indicating potential safety for specific applications. The FDA generally categorizes skin microbiome products as cosmetics, and non-viable microorganisms are recognized for use in cosmetics.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Enterococcus faecium is a valuable probiotic ingredient, offering direct benefits in cellular regeneration and strong indirect evidence, through closely related species, for anti-inflammatory and acne-reducing properties.
Related
Similar Ingredients
Finding similar ingredients…
References
Sources