Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Rice/Sucrose 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/Saccharomyces/Rice/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate?

Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Rice/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate is a liquid that comes from fermenting sugarcane molasses, plain sucrose and rice with two friendly microbes, Lactobacillus and Saccharomyces. During fermentation these microbes break down the sugars and starches into smaller molecules such as amino acids, peptides, minerals and skin friendly sugars. The mix is then gently filtered to remove the live microbes, leaving a clear nutrient rich filtrate that is easy to use in skincare.

Beauty brands first looked at fermented ingredients after seeing how traditional rice water kept hands soft and bright in many Asian cultures. As lab methods got better formulators began using controlled fermentation to create more stable and potent versions for modern products. This particular filtrate has gained popularity over the past decade in Korean and Japanese skincare before spreading worldwide.

To make it on a commercial scale manufacturers blend rice extract with sucrose and molasses, inoculate the mixture with the two microbes then let it ferment at a warm, steady temperature. Once the desired profile is reached they filter out solids, adjust the pH and add mild preservatives so the liquid stays fresh in a cosmetic formula.

You will most often spot Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Rice/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate on the ingredient list of hydrating toners, lightweight essences, sheet masks, soothing serums, barrier supporting creams, scalp sprays and anti aging lotions that aim to smooth fine lines and revive dull skin.

Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Rice/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multi tasking ingredient brings several helpful roles to a formula

  • Humectant – pulls water from the air and from deeper skin layers to the surface for a plump, dewy look while helping prevent tightness
  • Skin conditioning – the blend of amino acids, peptides and sugars softens rough patches, supports a smooth texture and can boost overall radiance
  • Skin protecting – forms a light breathable film that limits moisture loss and helps shield skin from daily stressors like wind and pollution keeping the barrier strong

Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Rice/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is gentle enough for nearly every skin type. Dry skin welcomes the extra moisture it pulls in, oily and combination skin appreciate its light non-greasy feel and even sensitive skin tends to tolerate it well because it is free of common irritants like fragrance and alcohol. People with a known allergy to rice or yeast extracts should avoid it as a precaution since trace proteins can remain after filtration.

The ingredient is produced entirely from plant sugars and grains using bacteria and yeast, with no animal-derived additives, so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

Current safety data shows no issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ferment is used topically at normal cosmetic levels. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should ask a healthcare provider before adding new skincare products just to be safe.

Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Rice/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate does not cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Daily sunscreen is still recommended to protect the barrier that the ferment helps support.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Rice/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and preserved.

  • Mild redness or stinging in very reactive skin
  • Temporary itching as skin adapts to the new product
  • Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to rice or yeast derivatives
  • Irritation from spoiled or contaminated product if the preservative system fails

If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a qualified medical professional

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Rice/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate is a water-based humectant with no heavy oils or waxes that could block pores. Its small molecule sugars and amino acids sit lightly on the skin and rinse away easily, so it is considered non-comedogenic.

That makes it a friendly option for people who struggle with clogged pores or acne prone skin.

One thing to keep in mind is the finished formula. If the filtrate is combined with richer butters or silicone occlusives the overall product might feel heavier even though the ferment itself does not clog pores.

Summary

Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Rice/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate attracts water like a sponge, smooths texture and reinforces the skin’s outer barrier thanks to a cocktail of naturally produced amino acids, peptides and minerals created during fermentation. It works as a humectant, a skin conditioner and a light protective film former all in one.

The ingredient rose to fame in Korean and Japanese routines then spread to Western shelves, showing up in hydrating toners essences and barrier creams. While not yet as mainstream as hyaluronic acid it is gaining fans for its gentle multitasking nature.

Current research and long market use point to a high safety profile with very low irritation potential and no comedogenic concerns. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to patch-test any new product that contains the filtrate before applying it to the whole face.

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