Science
Mechanism of Action
The ingredient functions as a sophisticated postbiotic complex, rich in beneficial fermentation byproducts including intracellular and extracellular metabolites, enzymes, peptides, organic acids (such as lactic acid), and fragments of deactivated microbes. Specifically, components like Lactococcus Ferment Lysate actively promote epidermal growth and enhance barrier function by stimulating the gene expression of crucial cell-binding proteins (e.g., Occludin, Desmocollin 1, Desmoglein 1) and enzymes involved in skin cell turnover (Kallikrein 5 and 7). It also stimulates the production of antimicrobial peptides vital for skin immunocompetence. Lactobacillus ferment contributes by functioning as a DNA repair enzyme, offering protection against environmental aggressors, and exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help balance the skin's microflora and mitigate symptoms associated with acne and rosacea. Other Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) components, including certain Leuconostoc strains, further contribute bioactive substances like prebiotics (e.g., dextran, mannitol, oligosaccharides), fostering a healthier skin environment.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Topical application of 1% Lactobacillus ferment significantly reduced skin sensitivity.
- 02 Topical application of 5% Lactobacillus ferment demonstrated effectiveness in anti-acne treatment, accelerating the reduction of acne lesion size and redness more rapidly than salicylic acid.
- 03 Oral ingestion of 10^10 cfu/d Lactococcus lactis H61 fermented milk increased cheek sebum content in young women, indicative of beneficial effects on the skin barrier.
- 04 Oral ingestion of 10^10 CFU/d Lactococcus lactis H61 fermented milk improved self-reported scores for skin elasticity and texture in middle-aged women.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Given reported effective concentrations for components are between 1% and 5% for topical applications, this ingredient is expected to be included at active percentages and not simply 'dusted' for marketing purposes.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
While specific optimal pH data for the entire ferment extract in cosmetic formulations is not available, the stability of its constituent metabolites and enzymes would generally benefit from pH ranges conducive to its microbial origins. For reference, optimal growth pH for Lactococcus strains is between 6.3 and 6.9, and for Lactobacillus plantarum, it is between 5.5 and 6.2, with inhibition below pH 4.0.
Safety
Safety Profile
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that related Lactobacillus ferments are safe as used in cosmetics, with the highest reported concentration for Lactobacillus Ferment being up to 5.6% in face and neck products. Many Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) genera, including Lactococcus, Lactobacillus, and Leuconostoc, are classified as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA and have Qualified Presumption of Safety (QPS) status by the EFSA. These cosmetic ingredients are primarily fermentation byproducts, not live bacteria, minimizing risk.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
This multi-ferment complex is a valuable ingredient for promoting overall skin health, offering benefits from barrier strengthening and soothing sensitivity to balancing microflora and addressing acne concerns.
Related
Similar Ingredients
Finding similar ingredients…
References
Sources