Schizosaccharomyces 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: June 30, 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 Schizosaccharomyces Ferment Extract Filtrate?

Schizosaccharomyces Ferment Extract Filtrate comes from Schizosaccharomyces, a hardy yeast often used in brewing and biotechnology. When this yeast ferments in a nutrient rich broth it breaks down sugars and proteins, creating a liquid packed with amino acids, B vitamins, peptides, minerals and natural moisturising sugars. After fermentation the mixture is carefully filtered to remove yeast cells, leaving a clear lightweight fluid that slips easily into cosmetic formulas.

Interest in fermented skincare first grew in East Asia where brands looked to traditional fermentation methods for gentle yet effective active ingredients. Because the filtrate is water based and low in oil it fits well into modern clean beauty trends and has since made its way into global product lines.

Manufacturers start by growing the yeast in sterile tanks under controlled temperature and pH. Once the culture reaches its peak activity they stop the process, collect the broth, then pass it through fine filters. The result is a stable filtrate free of live microbes but rich in skin friendly compounds.

You will see Schizosaccharomyces Ferment Extract Filtrate in hydrating serums, sheet masks, essences, lightweight moisturisers, anti aging creams, after sun gels, soothing mists and even scalp tonics where a boost of water binding nutrients is welcome.

Schizosaccharomyces Ferment Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

When added to a skincare formula Schizosaccharomyces Ferment Extract Filtrate can improve both the feel of the product and the look of skin.

  • Humectant – draws moisture from the environment and the deeper layers of skin toward the surface, helping to keep skin plump, smooth and comfortable without a greasy finish
  • Skin Conditioning – supplies amino acids, peptides and vitamins that soften and nourish the skin barrier, leaving it supple and more resilient to daily stress

Who Can Use Schizosaccharomyces Ferment Extract Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is light and water based so it typically works for oily, combination, normal and dry skin. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because the live yeast cells have been removed but anyone highly reactive to fermented ingredients should proceed with care. It is also unlikely to clog pores, making it a comfortable pick for acne prone users. Extremely dry skin may need a richer cream on top since the filtrate draws in water but does not seal it in.

The ingredient is made from cultured yeast with no animal derived inputs so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

No data links Schizosaccharomyces Ferment Extract Filtrate to problems in pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It does not penetrate deeply or interfere with hormones, yet this is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should check with their doctor before adding any new skincare product.

The filtrate does not increase photosensitivity so regular daytime use is fine when partnered with a basic sunscreen.

It plays nicely with most common skincare actives and does not carry fragrance, alcohol or oils by default unless these are added by the final formulator.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Schizosaccharomyces Ferment Extract Filtrate vary from person to person. The points below list potential but uncommon side effects. In well formulated products most users will not notice any issues.

  • Mild redness or warmth shortly after application, especially on very sensitive skin
  • Itching or tingling linked to an individual sensitivity to yeast derived ingredients
  • Contact dermatitis triggered by another component in the finished formula rather than the filtrate itself
  • Rare breakout of fungal acne in those already prone to Malassezia related flare-ups

If any discomfort or visible irritation occurs stop use immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

Schizosaccharomyces Ferment Extract Filtrate is mostly water with trace amounts of amino acids, vitamins and sugars, none of which have a tendency to block pores. Its light molecular weight lets it absorb quickly without mingling with sebum, so the risk of forming congestion is very low.

Overall it is considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.

Only the full formula can guarantee a non-clogging result, so rich oils or waxes added by the brand may change how the finished product behaves.

Summary

This ferment filtrate works as a humectant and skin conditioner that draws in moisture then feeds the barrier with small peptides, B vitamins and soothing sugars. The result is skin that looks plump, feels soft and handles daily stress better.

Its use has grown with the spread of K-beauty where watery essences are favored, though it remains a niche extra compared with giants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid.

Safety data and real-world feedback show it to be gentle for most users, but a quick patch test is still smart whenever you try a new product.

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