What Is Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Euglena/Rice Ferment?
Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Euglena/Rice Ferment starts with plain rice grains that are rich in natural starches and proteins. These grains are placed in a controlled tank with two friendly microorganisms, Aspergillus and Euglena gracilis. During fermentation the microbes break the rice down into smaller molecules like amino acids, peptides and sugars. After the ferment is complete it is further hydrolyzed, which means the mixture is treated with water and sometimes gentle enzymes to split the larger pieces into even tinier, skin-loving fragments. The result is a lightweight liquid packed with water-binding compounds.
Fermented rice ingredients have roots in traditional Japanese beauty practices where sake brewers were known for soft youthful hands. Modern labs took that folk wisdom, added precise microbial strains and purification steps, and created a stable ingredient that can be scaled for today’s skincare lines.
You will commonly spot Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Euglena/Rice Ferment in hydrating toners, sheet masks, lightweight serums, soothing moisturizers and brightening or anti-aging treatments. Formulators like it because it blends easily into water-based products and boosts the overall feel of the formula without adding heaviness.
Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Euglena/Rice Ferment’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ferment mainly works as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin and helping formulas stay fresh.
As a humectant it attracts water from the environment and the deeper layers of the skin, then holds it at the surface. This supports a plump smooth look, improves skin flexibility and can make other active ingredients spread more evenly. Because it is lightweight it leaves a soft finish rather than a greasy film, making it suitable for everything from refreshing mists to rich creams.
Who Can Use Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Euglena/Rice Ferment
This ferment suits most skin types including dry, combination, oily and sensitive because it hydrates without leaving a heavy residue. Those with very reactive or fungal-acne-prone skin should monitor how their skin responds since the ingredient is derived from microorganisms, though issues are rare.
It is plant and microbe derived with no animal inputs so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current research shows no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show all skincare products to a qualified doctor before use.
The ferment does not increase sun sensitivity and can be used both day and night without special precautions beyond standard sunscreen use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Euglena/Rice Ferment vary from person to person. The following list covers potential side effects that could occur in uncommon cases when the ingredient is applied topically. When included at appropriate levels in a well-formulated product most users experience none of these issues.
- Redness or flushing
- Mild stinging or burning sensation
- Itchiness
- Contact dermatitis
- Allergic rash or hives
- Acne-like breakouts on very blemish-prone skin
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5. Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Euglena/Rice Ferment is a water-soluble humectant with no oily or waxy residues that could block pores so it is considered non-comedogenic. It is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Because the ingredient is often paired with other lightweight hydrators in watery formulas its overall pore-clogging potential stays low. If it appears in a richer cream the final product’s comedogenicity will depend more on the base oils and butters than on the ferment itself.
Summary
Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Euglena/Rice Ferment is valued for its humectant power. The rice grains are fermented then hydrolyzed, producing small amino acids, peptides and sugars that pull water into the skin and help it hold onto that moisture. This leaves the surface looking plump smooth and comfortable without heaviness.
While not as famous as hyaluronic acid it is gaining traction in Japanese and Korean inspired skincare where gentle hydration is a key focus. You will mostly find it in toners essences masks and lightweight serums aimed at delivering quick refreshing moisture.
Topical use is considered very safe with low risk of irritation or pore blockage. Still, skin can react differently from person to person so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains this ferment before applying it to the whole face.