Hydroxypropyl Streptococcus Zooepidemicus 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 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Hydroxypropyl Streptococcus Zooepidemicus Ferment Filtrate?

Hydroxypropyl Streptococcus Zooepidemicus Ferment Filtrate is a skin care ingredient that starts out as a natural ferment produced by the friendly bacteria Streptococcus zooepidemicus. During fermentation these microbes create a nutrient rich broth loaded with moisture binding sugars and proteins. Chemists then react the filtrate with hydroxypropyl groups, a step that makes the material more stable and easier to blend into modern formulas. The result is a lightweight liquid that slips into water based products without changing their feel.

The link between this ferment and beauty goes back to the search for gentle hydrating agents that mimic the skin’s own natural sugars. As labs explored bacterial ferments for hyaluronic acid they discovered Streptococcus zooepidemicus delivered a consistent supply of skin friendly molecules. Adding hydroxypropyl groups was the next step to fine tune texture and boost shelf life, which opened the door for its use in everyday cosmetics.

Today you will spot Hydroxypropyl Streptococcus Zooepidemicus Ferment Filtrate in hydrating serums, sheet masks, daily moisturizers, soothing after sun gels, lightweight lotions and many anti aging blends that aim to plump and soften the skin without heaviness.

Hydroxypropyl Streptococcus Zooepidemicus Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is prized for one key role in skin care: skin conditioning. By attracting and holding water at the skin’s surface it helps keep the outer layer supple and smooth, which can lessen the look of fine lines and create a fresh dewy finish. It also supports a healthy barrier, making the skin feel comfortable and resilient after cleansing or environmental stress.

Who Can Use Hydroxypropyl Streptococcus Zooepidemicus Ferment Filtrate

This ferment derived humectant suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitive skin thanks to its lightweight texture and low likelihood of irritation. Extremely reactive or infection-prone skin should still proceed cautiously because any ferment component could, in rare cases, aggravate an already disrupted barrier.

The material is produced through bacterial fermentation with no animal-derived inputs so it meets vegan and vegetarian standards.

Current research shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is applied topically in cosmetic concentrations. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run all skincare choices past their physician to be safe.

Hydroxypropyl Streptococcus Zooepidemicus Ferment Filtrate is not known to cause photosensitivity and can be used in both daytime and night routines without heightened sun sensitivity. It plays well with common actives like niacinamide, peptides and soothing botanicals and it layers under sunscreens without pilling.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to Hydroxypropyl Streptococcus Zooepidemicus Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The effects listed below are potential outcomes and are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is formulated and stored correctly.

  • Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin
  • Temporary itching or tightness if the product is used on a compromised barrier
  • Breakouts or clogged pores in individuals who are highly prone to ferment related flare-ups
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in those with a specific allergy to Streptococcus-derived materials or fermentation by-products
  • Spoilage related irritation if the finished product becomes contaminated after opening

If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Hydroxypropyl Streptococcus Zooepidemicus Ferment Filtrate is water based, oil free and has a low molecular weight so it does not linger inside pores or leave an occlusive film that can trap dead cells. Ferments in this class act mainly as humectants that pull moisture toward the skin’s surface rather than coating it with fatty materials. Because of this makeup the ingredient is considered non-comedogenic and is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts. As with any raw material, the finished product’s full formula can change how pore friendly it feels, so texture and supporting ingredients matter.

Summary

Hydroxypropyl Streptococcus Zooepidemicus Ferment Filtrate works as a skin-conditioning humectant that binds water to the outer layer, helps maintain a resilient barrier and leaves skin looking plump and smooth. It does this by supplying moisture-loving sugars and proteins created during bacterial fermentation, then delivering them in a stable hydroxypropyl-modified solution that mixes easily into serums, lotions and masks.

The ingredient is gaining quiet traction in modern hydrating formulas, especially those that market a light feel or probiotic-inspired technology, yet it remains less famous than star players like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.

Current data labels it as low risk for irritation or pore clogging when used in standard cosmetic concentrations. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so patch testing any new product that features this ferment is a smart way to confirm compatibility before full-face use.

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