Lactobacillus/Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Flour 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: July 1, 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 Lactobacillus/Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Flour Ferment Filtrate?

Lactobacillus/Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Flour Ferment Filtrate starts with amaranth, a tiny nutrient-rich seed that has been eaten for centuries in South America. The seeds are finely ground into flour then mixed with the probiotic microorganism Lactobacillus. During fermentation the bacteria break down proteins, starches and fats in the flour, releasing amino acids, peptides, antioxidants and gentle acids. After the process is complete the solid parts are filtered out, leaving a clear liquid known as the filtrate.

Fermented plant extracts became popular in skincare in the early 2000s when brands looked to traditional foods like yogurt and kimchi for inspiration. The mix of probiotic by-products and plant nutrients proved helpful for keeping skin calm and balanced, so formulators began adding similar ferments to creams, serums and masks. Today Lactobacillus/Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Flour Ferment Filtrate can be found in hydrating essences, soothing facial mists, daily moisturizers, anti-aging serums and exfoliating lotions.

Lactobacillus/Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Flour Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multitasking ferment brings several benefits to a skincare formula:

  • Antioxidant: The filtrate carries natural compounds that neutralize free radicals, helping protect skin from pollution and UV-related damage that can lead to dullness and premature lines
  • Buffering: Its mild acidic nature helps adjust and stabilize the pH of a product, keeping the formula in the ideal range for skin comfort and for other active ingredients to work well
  • Exfoliating: Gentle acids produced during fermentation loosen dead surface cells, promoting a smoother brighter look without the scratchy feel of physical scrubs
  • Skin Protecting: The mix of peptides and sugars left by the Lactobacillus forms a light, invisible film that helps reinforce the skin barrier and reduce moisture loss

Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Flour Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is gentle enough for most skin types. Normal and combination skin typically tolerate it well while dry or mature skin may appreciate the extra antioxidants and barrier support. Oily or acne-prone skin can also benefit from the light exfoliation and balanced pH yet should start with lower concentrations in case the added acids feel too active. Highly sensitive or compromised skin should proceed cautiously since even mild acids might cause temporary tingling.

The ingredient is plant based and produced through bacterial fermentation so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. No animal-derived substrates or by-products are used in the process.

Current research shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals when Lactobacillus/Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Flour Ferment Filtrate is used topically at the levels found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should ask their healthcare provider before adding new skincare to their routine just to be safe.

The filtrate does not increase photosensitivity. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended for overall skin health but no extra precautions are needed solely because of this ingredient.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Lactobacillus/Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Flour Ferment Filtrate can vary. The points below describe potential side effects that are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.

  • Mild stinging or tingling upon application
  • Temporary redness or warmth
  • Dry patches if used too often on already dehydrated skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in people sensitive to amaranth or fermentation by-products
  • Increased sensitivity when layered with other strong exfoliants like high-percentage AHAs or retinoids
  • Isolated breakouts if the formula carrying the ferment is too occlusive for oily skin

If you notice persistent irritation or any adverse change in your skin stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0–1 (virtually non-comedogenic)

Lactobacillus/Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Flour Ferment Filtrate is a water-based ferment with no heavy oils or waxes. Its molecules are mostly low-weight peptides, sugars and acids that rinse away easily and do not clog pores. Because of this lightweight profile it earns a 0–1 on the 0-5 comedogenic scale.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin since it is unlikely to block follicles. Only if the finished formula pairs the ferment with richer emollients could pore congestion become a concern.

Summary

Lactobacillus/Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Flour Ferment Filtrate acts as an antioxidant, pH buffer, gentle exfoliant and skin protectant. Fermentation frees up amino acids and mild organic acids that sweep away dull surface cells, stabilize formula pH and neutralize environmental free radicals while peptide-sugar complexes form a microfilm that supports the skin barrier.

The ingredient enjoys moderate popularity, mostly in K-beauty style essences and soothing serums, though it has yet to reach the ubiquity of classics like hyaluronic acid.

Topically it is considered low risk with few reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new skincare product a brief patch test is wise to confirm personal tolerance.

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