What Is Bacillus/Biotin/Polysorbate 80/Soy Peptide Ferment Filtrate?
Bacillus/Biotin/Polysorbate 80/Soy Peptide Ferment Filtrate is a liquid ingredient created when the friendly microbe Bacillus ferments three cosmetic staples: biotin, polysorbate 80 and short chains of soy protein called peptides. Fermentation breaks these starting materials down into smaller pieces such as amino acids, sugars and organic acids, then the mixture is filtered so only the water-soluble goodness remains. The result is a clear or slightly hazy fluid packed with skin-loving molecules that hold on to water and help other ingredients spread smoothly.
Fermented extracts have been popular in skin care since the early 2000s when brands looked to traditional food fermentation for inspiration. By pairing modern lab controls with this age-old process, companies discovered that they could boost the skin benefits of vitamins, oils and proteins. Today this particular ferment is made in stainless-steel tanks where temperature, pH and oxygen are carefully managed. Once fermentation is complete, the solution is micro-filtered to remove the bacterial cells, leaving behind a preservative-free filtrate ready for formulators.
You will often spot Bacillus/Biotin/Polysorbate 80/Soy Peptide Ferment Filtrate in lightweight serums, hydrating essences, sheet masks, leave-on moisturizers, anti-aging lotions and even some hair conditioners. Brands like it because it slips into water phases without fuss, works at low doses and plays nicely with most other ingredients.
Bacillus/Biotin/Polysorbate 80/Soy Peptide Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ferment brings one standout benefit to cosmetic formulas.
As a humectant it attracts moisture from the air and draws it into the upper layers of skin. This added water helps skin look plumper, feel softer and stay comfortable for longer. Humectants also improve the spreadability of creams and serums so the formula glides on evenly and leaves a refreshed finish rather than a heavy film.
Who Can Use Bacillus/Biotin/Polysorbate 80/Soy Peptide Ferment Filtrate
This ferment is lightweight and water based so it suits almost every skin type. Dry skin benefits most because the extra moisture helps relieve tightness while normal, combination and oily skin enjoy the non-greasy feel. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well since it contains no added fragrance or alcohol, though anyone with a known soy allergy should be cautious because the peptides come from soy protein.
The ingredient is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. The soy peptides are plant derived, polysorbate 80 is produced from plant fats and sugar alcohols and biotin is made by chemical synthesis. The fermentation step uses harmless bacteria but no animal products or by-products.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women can generally use products containing this filtrate as it has no known hormone activity and is applied only to the skin. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should have their doctor review all skin care products just to be safe.
Bacillus/Biotin/Polysorbate 80/Soy Peptide Ferment Filtrate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so there is no extra need for sun avoidance beyond normal daily SPF habits.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Bacillus/Biotin/Polysorbate 80/Soy Peptide Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The issues listed below are possible yet unlikely for most users when the ingredient is formulated and preserved correctly.
Irritation – mild stinging or burning can occur on very reactive skin
Redness or itching – usually transient and related to overuse or a disrupted skin barrier
Allergic response to soy proteins – rare but possible in individuals with a soy allergy
Contact dermatitis – prolonged exposure in an occlusive product may trigger a rash in sensitive users
Breakout flare-ups – uncommon yet still possible if the overall formula is heavy or occlusive
If any of these effects appear stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 – the filtrate is water based and used at low levels so it does not leave an oily film that could block pores. While raw polysorbate 80 has a moderate comedogenic score, the amount remaining after fermentation and filtration is tiny and largely water soluble, lowering the overall risk.
Because of this low score the ingredient is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind that the final formula matters most; heavy occlusive creams built around this ferment could still clog pores even if the ferment itself is nearly non-comedogenic.
Summary
Bacillus/Biotin/Polysorbate 80/Soy Peptide Ferment Filtrate acts mainly as a humectant, pulling moisture from the air and binding it to the upper skin layers. Fermentation breaks biotin, soy peptides and polysorbate 80 into smaller, water grabbing molecules that slip easily into lightweight serums and lotions, leaving skin feeling fresh and hydrated.
Although not a household name, the ingredient is gaining quiet popularity with formulators who want a gentle plant based hydrator that behaves well in modern minimalist products.
Safety data show a very low irritation and allergy risk aside from rare soy sensitivity. As with any new skin care ingredient it is smart to patch test before full use just to be cautious.