What Is Phellinus Linteus/Collagen Ferment Filtrate?
Phellinus Linteus/Collagen Ferment Filtrate is a liquid ingredient created when collagen is fermented by the mushroom Phellinus linteus, then carefully filtered to remove solids. During fermentation the fungus breaks down the large collagen protein into smaller peptides while adding its own skin loving sugars and antioxidants. The result is a lightweight fluid rich in moisture binding amino acids, beta glucans and minerals.
The idea of pairing fermented ingredients with skincare took off in Korea and Japan, where beauty chemists noticed that fermentation makes heavy ingredients easier for skin to absorb. Phellinus linteus has long been valued in traditional remedies, and when researchers combined it with collagen they found a gentle filtrate that keeps skin soft and resilient. Modern labs now produce the filtrate in controlled tanks: clean collagen, usually from fish or bovine sources, is mixed with the mushroom culture, allowed to ferment, then filtered, purified and preserved for use in cosmetic formulas.
You will most often spot this ingredient in hydrating serums, anti aging creams, sheet masks, eye treatments, soothing gels and barrier repair moisturizers where it boosts moisture and comfort.
Phellinus Linteus/Collagen Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking filtrate supports skin health in several ways
- Humectant: draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, helping skin stay plump and refreshed
- Skin Conditioning: smooths rough patches, improves softness and gives skin a healthy feel
- Emollient: fills in tiny gaps between skin cells to reduce flakiness and enhance suppleness
- Skin Protecting: forms a light shield that defends against daily stressors like wind and pollution while limiting moisture loss
Who Can Use Phellinus Linteus/Collagen Ferment Filtrate
Because it is a lightweight humectant and emollient, Phellinus Linteus/Collagen Ferment Filtrate suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive. Its calming beta glucans make it especially welcome for easily irritated complexions. Extremely acne-prone users may prefer a patch of lighter gels first, as any rich formula can feel heavy on very oily skin.
The collagen portion is typically sourced from fish or bovine tissue, so products containing this filtrate are not vegan and may not meet the standards of strict vegetarians. If the label specifies plant or microbial collagen you may find vegan-friendly options, but those are still uncommon.
No data suggests that topical use poses a risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women. The peptide fragments remain on the skin surface and are unlikely to enter the bloodstream, yet this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should ask their physician before adding any new skincare product, just to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, so it can be used morning or night without raising sun-related concerns. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to Phellinus Linteus/Collagen Ferment Filtrate differ from person to person. The issues listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and preserved correctly.
- Allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to mushrooms or the collagen source
- Redness or itching on very reactive skin
- Mild stinging if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Contact dermatitis from preservatives or other formula components rather than the filtrate itself
- Rare clogging or breakouts if used in a heavy cream on severely oily skin
- Spoilage-related irritation if a product is stored improperly or used past its expiry date
If you notice any of these effects stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Phellinus Linteus/Collagen Ferment Filtrate is mostly water-based and packed with small peptides, sugars and beta glucans that sit lightly on skin and rinse away cleanly. It contains no thick oils or waxes that are known to block pores, so the risk of congestion is low. The one-point deduction reflects that any ingredient with emollient qualities could, in theory, contribute to buildup if used in a very heavy formula.
Overall this filtrate is considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
As always the finished product’s full recipe matters: rich creams, occlusive balms or poorly preserved formulas can raise the clogging potential even when individual ingredients score low.
Summary
Phellinus Linteus/Collagen Ferment Filtrate acts as a humectant, skin-conditioning agent, emollient and skin protectant. Fermentation breaks collagen into tiny peptides that attract and hold moisture while the Phellinus linteus mushroom contributes soothing beta glucans and antioxidants. Together they hydrate, soften and bolster the skin barrier so skin feels smooth and resilient.
The filtrate is gaining quiet popularity in Korean and Japanese skincare and is starting to appear in Western masks, serums and creams, though it is still far from mainstream. Its gentle nature, low comedogenic score and compatibility with most actives make it an appealing addition for formulators looking to add lightweight hydration and calming benefits.
Current data shows topical use is safe for the vast majority of people with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to perform a small patch test before applying a product all over your face just to stay on the safe side.