What Is Phellinus Linteus/Rice/Safflower Flower Ferment Extract Filtrate?
Phellinus Linteus/Rice/Safflower Flower Ferment Extract Filtrate is made from a three-part team of natural materials. First come the bright red flowers of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) and simple rice grains (Oryza sativa). These are placed in a controlled vat with Phellinus linteus, a type of medicinal mushroom long valued in East Asian wellness traditions. Over time the mushroom breaks down the plant material through fermentation, unlocking smaller molecules and skin-loving nutrients. Once the process is complete the mixture is filtered, leaving a clear fluid rich in amino acids, polysaccharides, and gentle organic acids.
The idea of using fermented botanicals in beauty care took off in Korea and Japan, where people noticed that fermented rice water left hands soft and bright. Adding Phellinus linteus was a later twist, as researchers found the mushroom’s enzymes could boost antioxidant levels in the brew. Today the filtrate slips easily into modern formulations because it is water soluble and has a mild scent.
You will typically spot this ingredient in soothing sheet masks, lightweight hydrating toners, daily moisturizers, anti-aging serums and after-sun gels. Brands like it because it plays well with both simple aloe-based formulas and more high-tech peptide blends.
Phellinus Linteus/Rice/Safflower Flower Ferment Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ferment filtrate is classified as a skin conditioning agent, meaning its main job is to help skin feel softer, smoother and more balanced. Thanks to the natural sugars and amino acids formed during fermentation, it pulls water into the upper layers of skin for a quick boost of hydration. At the same time its gentle acids can nudge away dull surface cells, giving skin a fresher look. The added antioxidant compounds from Phellinus linteus help defend against everyday environmental stress, supporting a calmer, healthier complexion.
Who Can Use Phellinus Linteus/Rice/Safflower Flower Ferment Extract Filtrate
This ferment filtrate is gentle and water light so it usually suits every skin type including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Its hydrating sugars give dry or mature skin a moisture boost while the non greasy texture keeps oilier complexions comfortable. Sensitive users appreciate the soothing antioxidant profile although anyone with a proven allergy to mushrooms, rice or safflower extracts should proceed carefully.
The ingredient is derived solely from plant material and a fungus with no animal by-products or animal testing tied to its production making it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
No evidence links the topical use of this ferment to hormonal disruption so most pregnant or breastfeeding individuals can use it. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should clear all skincare items with a qualified health professional first just to be safe.
Phellinus Linteus/Rice/Safflower Flower Ferment Extract Filtrate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitizing. It also layers well with common actives such as vitamin C, niacinamide and peptides without raising stability issues.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Phellinus Linteus/Rice/Safflower Flower Ferment Extract Filtrate can vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Temporary itching linked to an allergy to mushroom or plant proteins
- Contact dermatitis if combined with other irritants in the same formula
- Rare fungal acne flare in individuals highly prone to Malassezia reactions
If a negative reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. This ferment filtrate is almost entirely water based with small, bio-available molecules that do not clog pores. It lacks heavy oils, waxes or large fatty acids that would normally sit on the skin and trap debris, so the likelihood of blocked pores is very low. The slight presence of natural sugars and amino acids may feed surface bacteria in rare cases, yet the concentration is usually too minimal to trigger breakouts.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
As with any fermented ingredient, formula partners such as thick butters or occlusive silicones, not the filtrate itself, are usually the real pore-clogging culprits. Check the full ingredient list of the product if congestion is a concern.
Summary
Phellinus Linteus/Rice/Safflower Flower Ferment Extract Filtrate conditions skin by drawing in moisture, sweeping away dull cells with mild organic acids and supplying antioxidants that calm daily stress. The fermentation step breaks plant material into smaller, skin-friendly pieces, boosting absorption and gentleness.
It enjoys quiet popularity in K-beauty formulas and a growing number of global toners, serums and masks yet remains a niche pick compared with classics like green tea or aloe.
Current data shows it is safe for most users, including sensitive, vegan and pregnant individuals, with only rare reports of irritation. As with any new skincare ingredient, patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with it.