What Is Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Hordeum Vulgare Ferment Extract Filtrate?
Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Hordeum Vulgare Ferment Extract Filtrate is a plant and yeast derived ingredient made from whole barley (Hordeum vulgare) that has been fermented by two friendly microorganisms, Aspergillus and Saccharomyces. During fermentation these microbes break down barley’s natural proteins, sugars and minerals into smaller skin-loving fragments, and the resulting liquid is then filtered and further hydrolyzed so the molecules are even smaller and easier for skin to enjoy. What you end up with is a lightweight fluid rich in amino acids, peptides and nourishing sugars.
Fermented plant extracts have been part of traditional skin care in parts of Asia for decades, and formulators quickly noticed that the process creates ingredients that are gentle and highly bio-available. As Korean beauty trends gained global attention in the early 2000s, this particular ferment filtrate started showing up in modern creams and lotions. Its rise in popularity is tied to the push for more natural yet effective moisturizers that leave skin soft without feeling greasy.
The production process begins with whole barley grains soaked in water. Aspergillus spores and Saccharomyces yeast are added, and the mix is left to ferment under controlled conditions. After a set time the liquid portion is separated, filtered to remove solids, then treated with enzymes or mild acid to hydrolyze larger molecules. The final step is concentration and stabilization so the extract stays fresh in a cosmetic jar.
You will most often see Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Hordeum Vulgare Ferment Extract Filtrate in hydrating toners, lightweight serums, daily moisturizers, sheet masks and anti-age creams that promise a smooth supple feel.
Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Hordeum Vulgare Ferment Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ferment filtrate brings one main benefit to skin care formulas.
As an emollient it helps soften and smooth the skin surface by filling in tiny gaps between dead skin cells. This creates a silky touch, reduces flaky patches and enhances the overall comfort of a product. Because the ingredient is water based and lightweight, it delivers this plush finish without leaving an oily film, making it suitable for both rich creams and quick-absorbing gels.
Who Can Use Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Hordeum Vulgare Ferment Extract Filtrate
This ferment filtrate is generally friendly to all skin types. Its weightless water base suits oily and combination skin while the natural sugars and amino acids help dry or mature skin hold onto moisture. Sensitive complexions also tend to tolerate it because the fermentation process breaks big proteins into smaller, gentler pieces. The only group that may need extra caution is anyone with a known allergy to barley or yeast since trace residues could remain.
Because the ingredient comes from plants and microorganisms and involves no animal derivatives, it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Always double-check the full product label though, as other components in the formula might not follow the same standard.
Current safety data shows no specific risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when this ingredient is used topically in normal cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run their skin care routine past a qualified doctor just to be safe.
The filtrate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so there is no added need for special photo-protection beyond a regular broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Hordeum Vulgare Ferment Extract Filtrate vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects yet most users will not experience them if the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Skin irritation such as redness, stinging or mild burning
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to barley, gluten or yeast
- Rare flare-ups of malassezia-related fungal acne in very reactive skin
- Occasional clogged pores if the overall product texture is too rich for highly oily skin
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1
This ferment filtrate is almost entirely water with dissolved amino acids, peptides and sugars so it lacks the heavy oils or waxes that typically clog pores. Its molecules are small and rinse cleanly from the follicle which keeps the chance of blockage very low. For that reason it sits at the bottom of the scale.
Because of its lightweight nature it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
Keep in mind that the finished product formula matters; richer creams that include butters or thick silicones could still cause congestion even if this single ingredient is non-clogging.
Summary
Hydrolyzed Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Hordeum Vulgare Ferment Extract Filtrate is used mainly as a water-based emollient that slips between skin cells to smooth rough patches and leave a soft velvety feel. Fermentation breaks barley down into tiny fragments so skin can take up the beneficial sugars and amino acids quickly, boosting surface hydration without weight.
It enjoys steady popularity in Korean and Japanese skin care and is now creeping into Western moisturizers and toners as brands hunt for gentle plant-derived actives that perform like synthetics but sound more natural on the label.
Current research shows a strong safety profile with very low irritation risk except for those with specific barley or yeast allergies. As with any new cosmetic ingredient a small patch test is still wise before full-face use just to rule out personal sensitivity.