What Is Aspergillus/Astragalus Sinicus Seed/Rice Ferment Filtrate?
Aspergillus/Astragalus Sinicus Seed/Rice Ferment Filtrate is a liquid obtained after fermenting Astragalus sinicus seeds and rice grains with a friendly mold called Aspergillus. Astragalus sinicus is a traditional green manure crop in East Asia while rice is a staple grain rich in carbohydrates, proteins and minerals. During fermentation Aspergillus breaks these raw materials down into smaller molecules such as amino acids, peptides, sugars and organic acids, then the finished broth is filtered to remove solid residues leaving a clear to slightly hazy fluid.
Fermented plant extracts have long been used in Asian beauty rituals for their skin-softening and nourishing qualities. Inspired by sake brewers’ famously smooth hands Japanese formulators began exploring rice ferment filtrates in skincare in the 1970s. Adding Astragalus sinicus seeds to the mix brings extra phytonutrients and the combined ferment has since found its way into modern K-beauty and J-beauty products.
The filtrate is produced in controlled tanks where soaked seeds and rice are inoculated with Aspergillus spores and allowed to ferment for several days at warm temperatures. After fermentation the liquid is pressed clarified and carefully filtered to ensure purity before being blended into cosmetic bases.
You will usually see Aspergillus/Astragalus Sinicus Seed/Rice Ferment Filtrate in hydrating sheet masks brightening essences lightweight moisturizers and anti-aging serums where it serves as a gentle botanical active.
Aspergillus/Astragalus Sinicus Seed/Rice Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is mainly valued for its skin conditioning ability. It helps improve the feel and appearance of skin by supplying naturally derived amino acids and sugars that attract moisture, supporting a smoother more supple complexion. The ferment also contains mild exfoliating acids that can encourage a fresher look without irritation making formulas feel more luxurious and skin friendly.
Who Can Use Aspergillus/Astragalus Sinicus Seed/Rice Ferment Filtrate
This ferment filtrate is generally suitable for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and mildly oily skin thanks to its lightweight hydrating profile. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because it lacks harsh acids or fragrances, though anyone with a known sensitivity to fermented ingredients or molds should proceed carefully. People prone to chronic fungal acne may also want to skip it as the saccharides created during fermentation can sometimes feed Malassezia yeast.
The ingredient is produced from plant seeds, rice and a microscopic fungus, with no animal by-products involved, making it acceptable for both vegetarians and vegans. Still, always verify the full formula of any finished product as other components might not share the same status.
No specific contraindications are reported for pregnant or breastfeeding women, however this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing individuals should show the product to a qualified healthcare professional before adding it to their routine just to be safe.
Aspergillus/Astragalus Sinicus Seed/Rice Ferment Filtrate does not increase skin’s sensitivity to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitising. Standard daily sunscreen is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Aspergillus/Astragalus Sinicus Seed/Rice Ferment Filtrate differ from person to person. The following issues are possible yet uncommon if the ingredient has been properly formulated and preserved.
- Localized redness or stinging in very reactive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to molds or legume-derived proteins
- Fungal acne flare in users already prone to Malassezia-related breakouts
- Rare itching or mild swelling around application site
- Cross-reaction with existing environmental mold allergies leading to transient skin discomfort
If irritation or any unexpected reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 This filtrate is almost entirely water with trace levels of amino acids, peptides and sugars so it does not add heavy oils or waxes that can block pores. While the carbohydrate content might in theory nourish yeast on very reactive skin it is unlikely to clog pores directly, giving it a low but not zero score.
Generally suitable for acne-prone users, though anyone who knows their skin is sensitive to fermented ingredients or Malassezia overgrowth should monitor how their skin responds.
Because finished formulas vary, a product that pairs this filtrate with rich plant oils or occlusive agents could end up more pore-clogging than the raw ingredient itself.
Summary
Aspergillus/Astragalus Sinicus Seed/Rice Ferment Filtrate is prized for skin conditioning, supplying lightweight hydration from naturally occurring amino acids and sugars while gentle organic acids refresh the surface for a smoother look. Its mild nature makes it a friendly addition to toners, essences and masks, especially in K-beauty where fermented botanicals are on trend.
The ingredient has a solid safety profile with few reported issues and is vegan friendly. Most people can use it without trouble, yet it is always smart to patch test any new product containing this ferment to confirm personal tolerance.