Bacillus/Monascus/Perilla Ocymoides Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 23, 2025
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All information on this page is verified using The Personal Care Products Council's (PCPC) INCI database. Our ingredient analyses are based exclusively on PCPC's technical data to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Bacillus/Monascus/Perilla Ocymoides Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate?

Bacillus/Monascus/Perilla Ocymoides Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate is a liquid obtained after fermenting young Perilla ocymoides sprouts and rice bran with two friendly microorganisms, Bacillus and Monascus. During fermentation these microbes break down plant material and release a mix of amino acids, peptides, natural sugars, vitamins and antioxidants. The result is a lightweight fluid that can sink into skin easily and boost hydration.

The idea of using fermented extracts in beauty care comes from traditional Asian practices where rice and herbs were fermented for food and skin health. Over time formulators noticed the smooth feel and glow these ferments gave to skin and began refining the process for modern products. Today controlled lab fermentation ensures consistency and safety. After fermentation the mixture is filtered to remove solids leaving a clear or slightly tinted filtrate ready for cosmetic use.

You will most often see this ingredient in moisturizers, hydrating serums, sheet masks, soothing lotions and anti-aging creams. Because it is gentle and water-soluble it blends well with both light and rich textures and pairs nicely with other plant extracts, ceramides and mild acids.

Bacillus/Monascus/Perilla Ocymoides Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ferment filtrate offers several helpful roles in skin care.

  • Humectant – pulls water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface which helps keep skin plump soft and comfortable throughout the day
  • Skin conditioning – supplies small nutrients and soothing molecules that support a balanced skin barrier improving overall texture and radiance
  • Emollient – adds a light layer of softness smoothing rough spots and making skin feel silky without a greasy finish

Who Can Use Bacillus/Monascus/Perilla Ocymoides Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate works well for most skin types. Dry skin benefits from its moisture binding sugars and amino acids while oily or combination skin appreciates the light non greasy feel. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it because the fermentation process tends to reduce harsh plant compounds though very reactive skin should still start slowly.

The ingredient is entirely plant based and produced with microorganisms so it fits into vegan and vegetarian lifestyles with no animal byproducts involved.

No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women when this ferment is used topically. It is viewed as low risk however research on its use during pregnancy is limited. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run all products past a healthcare professional just to be safe.

Bacillus/Monascus/Perilla Ocymoides Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate does not make skin more sensitive to the sun and can be worn day or night without extra precautions beyond daily sunscreen.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can vary from person to person. The following are possible but uncommon reactions when Bacillus/Monascus/Perilla Ocymoides Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate is applied to skin assuming the product was properly formulated.

Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin

Allergic reaction in individuals with known rice or perilla allergies

Contact dermatitis triggered by fermentation byproducts or other ingredients in the final formula

Clogged pores or breakouts if paired with heavy occlusives on acne prone skin

If any of these effects show up stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

This ferment filtrate is water based and lightweight with no heavy oils or waxes so it rarely blocks pores. Any clogging risk usually comes from the overall formula rather than the filtrate itself which is why it earns a low score of 1. People who are prone to acne or breakouts can generally use it without worry although they should still pay attention to the other ingredients in the product. If the ferment is blended with thick butters or occlusives the finished product might become more pore clogging even though the filtrate alone is not.

Summary

Bacillus/Monascus/Perilla Ocymoides Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate acts as a humectant drawing water into the skin a skin conditioner providing amino acids vitamins and antioxidants for a smoother barrier and a mild emollient that leaves a silky finish. Fermentation breaks down plant material into smaller molecules that absorb quickly and deliver these benefits more efficiently.

While not as famous as superstar ingredients like hyaluronic acid this ferment is slowly gaining recognition in K beauty inspired formulas and niche clean beauty lines that value fermented botanicals for their gentle effectiveness.

Current data and user reports point to a very safe profile with low irritation and virtually no comedogenicity yet every person is different. When trying any new product containing this filtrate patch testing is a smart step to rule out individual sensitivities.

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