Aspergillus 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 23, 2025
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All information on this page is verified using The Personal Care Products Council's (PCPC) INCI database. Our ingredient analyses are based exclusively on PCPC's technical data to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Aspergillus Ferment Extract Filtrate?

Aspergillus Ferment Extract Filtrate is a skin care ingredient that starts life in a lab, not a field. Scientists grow a safe strain of the mold Aspergillus on a nutrient medium, let it ferment, then filter out the solid parts. What remains is a clear liquid full of small, water loving molecules and natural enzymes that form during fermentation. This filtrate is prized because it is lightweight, water soluble, and able to blend easily with many other ingredients.

Fermented ingredients first gained popularity in Asian beauty routines, where the gentle byproducts of microbial activity were found to soothe and hydrate skin. Over time global brands noticed the trend and began adding Aspergillus Ferment Extract Filtrate to formulas that aim to top up moisture and support a healthy skin barrier. Today you can spot it on the label of hydrating masks, daily moisturizers, refreshing mists, and anti aging serums that promise a dewy finish.

Manufacturers choose this filtrate because it can be produced in controlled batches, ensuring quality stays steady from one lot to the next. The process is also eco friendly since it happens at room temperature and relies on water based extraction rather than harsh solvents.

Aspergillus Ferment Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient has one main job in skin care formulas: it acts as a humectant. Humectants draw water from the air and pull it toward the skin surface, helping to keep skin feeling soft and plump. By holding extra moisture in the outer layers of the skin, Aspergillus Ferment Extract Filtrate can smooth the look of fine lines, reduce flaky patches, and give the complexion a fresh, healthy glow.

Who Can Use Aspergillus Ferment Extract Filtrate

This humectant is generally well tolerated by every skin type, from very dry to oily and even sensitive, because it is lightweight and water based. People prone to dehydration or looking for a dewy finish often find it especially helpful. No specific skin type needs to avoid it, though anyone with a known mold allergy should be cautious and scan ingredient lists carefully.

The ingredient is produced through a controlled fermentation process that does not involve animal tissue, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Of course final formulas may pair it with other ingredients such as beeswax or collagen, so label readers should confirm that the overall product aligns with their lifestyle.

There is no data suggesting that Aspergillus Ferment Extract Filtrate poses a risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when used in topical cosmetics. Still, this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should show any skin care lineup to their doctor to be certain it fits their individual needs.

The filtrate is not known to make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it does not raise the risk of sunburn. Standard daytime sun protection is still wise for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Aspergillus Ferment Extract Filtrate differ from person to person. The following list covers potential but uncommon effects. In well formulated products most users will not notice these issues.

  • Mild redness or itching in those with very sensitive skin
  • Transient stinging if applied to freshly exfoliated or broken skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to mold derived ingredients
  • Eye irritation if the product migrates into the eyes

If you experience any of the above discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5 – Aspergillus Ferment Extract Filtrate is a lightweight water based humectant that leaves no oily residue, so it does not clog pores or trap debris. It contains small hydrophilic molecules that sit on the skin surface and pull in moisture rather than forming a heavy film. For this reason it is considered non-comedogenic and is suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.

Because the ingredient is purely aqueous it pairs well with oil free or gel textures often marketed to blemish prone users. If breakouts occur they are more likely due to other components in the formula than to the filtrate itself.

Summary

Aspergillus Ferment Extract Filtrate is primarily a humectant that hydrates skin by attracting and binding water to the outer layers. The fermentation process produces small sugars and amino acids that enhance moisture retention and help maintain a smooth resilient barrier. First popular in Korean beauty products, it now appears in a growing range of international masks, serums and mists aiming for a dewy finish.

Current data shows it is low risk for irritation and non-comedogenic, making it a safe choice for most skin types including sensitive and acne prone. Still, every formula is unique so perform a quick patch test whenever you try a new product containing this ingredient to ensure it agrees with your skin.

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