Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Root/Sprout Extract Ferment Extract 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/Panax Ginseng Root/Sprout Extract Ferment Extract Filtrate?

Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Root/Sprout Extract Ferment Extract Filtrate is a skin care ingredient made by fermenting ginseng roots and young sprouts with the friendly bacterium Lactobacillus. After fermentation the mixture is filtered, leaving behind a clear liquid rich in smaller bio-active molecules that skin can absorb with ease. Ginseng itself has been a beauty staple for centuries in East Asia thanks to its natural mix of sugars, amino acids and antioxidant compounds called ginsenosides. By adding fermentation to the process formulators discovered they could break down some of the larger ginseng molecules into more skin-friendly parts and boost the level of skin-loving peptides and enzymes.

The ingredient began appearing in modern cosmetics in the early 2010s when Korean beauty brands started blending traditional herbal extracts with new biotech methods to create gentler yet more potent formulas. Today suppliers ferment carefully cleaned ginseng roots and sprouts in stainless steel tanks, keep the temperature and pH steady for several days, then filter the liquid to remove bacteria and plant solids. The result is a light water-like filtrate that slips easily into many kinds of products.

You will most often spot Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Root/Sprout Extract Ferment Extract Filtrate in hydrating masks, anti-aging serums, daily moisturizers, brightening essences and soothing after-sun gels. Because it is water-soluble and mild it fits well in both leave-on and rinse-off formulas.

Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Root/Sprout Extract Ferment Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ferment filtrate is prized for the way it improves how skin looks and feels.

Its key role is skin conditioning, meaning it helps keep the surface soft, smooth and balanced. The mix of fermented sugars and amino acids supports the skin barrier so moisture stays in longer while the natural antioxidants from ginseng guard against dullness caused by everyday stressors. Regular use can leave skin looking refreshed and feeling comfortably hydrated without a heavy or greasy after-feel.

Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Root/Sprout Extract Ferment Extract Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is lightweight and water based so it suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it because fermentation lowers the pH and trims down larger molecules that might otherwise be irritating. People with very reactive or botanical allergies should still double-check the full formula to be sure no other trigger ingredients are present.

The raw materials are plant derived and the fermentation relies on the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus, which makes the ingredient appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. No animal products are involved in its production.

There is no published evidence suggesting that topical ginseng ferments pose a risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women. That said this information is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should show any planned skincare products to their healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

The filtrate does not increase photosensitivity so it can be used morning or night without making skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended to defend against everyday UV exposure.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Root/Sprout Extract Ferment Extract Filtrate vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and applied.

  • Redness or stinging in very sensitive skin
  • Mild itching if the user is allergic to ginseng or other root extracts
  • Contact dermatitis when combined with other strong actives that disrupt the skin barrier
  • Rare bacterial contamination issues if a finished product is stored improperly after opening

If any discomfort swelling or persistent irritation occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 out of 5. Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Root/Sprout Extract Ferment Extract Filtrate is a thin water based liquid with no heavy oils or waxes that could clog pores. Fermentation breaks large ginseng molecules into smaller pieces that rinse cleanly and sit lightly on the skin, so the risk of blocked pores is considered extremely low. This makes the ingredient suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Because it is water soluble it will not build up on the skin surface and can be layered under other products without adding weight.

Summary

Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Root/Sprout Extract Ferment Extract Filtrate conditions the skin by supplying lightweight sugars, amino acids and antioxidants that help lock in moisture, support the barrier and fend off everyday oxidative stress. Fermentation boosts these benefits by shrinking large plant compounds into forms the skin can absorb quickly.

The ingredient rose to fame in Korean beauty circles about a decade ago and now shows up in a growing number of global serums, masks and moisturizers, though it is still less common than classic hydrators like hyaluronic acid.

Current research and real-world use suggest it is very safe for most skin types with only rare reports of irritation. As with any new skincare addition it is smart to patch test a small area first to make sure your skin agrees with the full product formula.

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