Aspergillus/Rosa Damascena Leaf/Rice Ferment 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/Rosa Damascena Leaf/Rice Ferment Filtrate?

Aspergillus/Rosa Damascena Leaf/Rice Ferment Filtrate is a fermented blend made from the leaves of the damask rose and rice that has been processed by the friendly mold Aspergillus. During fermentation the microorganism breaks down plant material into smaller, skin-loving compounds such as amino acids, sugars and small peptides. This filtrate is then carefully separated from the solid plant matter to give a clear liquid rich in nutrients that skin can recognize and use.

Roses have been linked to beauty rituals for centuries, while rice water has long been praised in East Asian skin care. Modern labs noticed that combining these botanicals with fermentation could make their benefits easier for skin to absorb. Over time formulators began including the filtrate in products that need to hydrate, soothe and revive a dull complexion, leading to its presence in many contemporary skin care lines.

The production starts with freshly harvested damask rose leaves and polished rice. They are soaked in water, inoculated with a safe strain of Aspergillus and kept at a controlled temperature so fermentation can occur. After several days the mixture is filtered to remove solids, then refined and preserved for use in cosmetics.

You will most often spot Aspergillus/Rosa Damascena Leaf/Rice Ferment Filtrate in lightweight essences, hydrating serums, sheet masks, anti-aging creams and brightening lotions. It is valued where a gentle, plant-derived conditioning boost is desired without adding heaviness or strong fragrance.

Aspergillus/Rosa Damascena Leaf/Rice Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is mainly prized for one key role in skin care products.

Skin conditioning: The mix of natural sugars, amino acids and peptides left after fermentation helps skin stay soft, smooth and supple. By supporting the skin barrier and drawing in moisture it can make a formula feel more hydrating while giving the complexion a healthier appearance.

Who Can Use Aspergillus/Rosa Damascena Leaf/Rice Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is generally well tolerated by most skin types. Its lightweight water-like texture works for oily, combination and normal skin while the naturally occurring humectants give dry or dehydrated complexions an extra drink of moisture. Sensitive skin usually does fine since the ingredient is mild, though anyone with a known allergy to roses, rice or ferment-based products should proceed with caution.

Because the filtrate comes from plants and a food-grade microorganism, it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal-derived materials are involved in the fermentation or extraction process, though checking the entire product’s ingredient list is always smart.

Current research shows no specific concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when using this ingredient topically. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show their chosen skincare products to a qualified doctor to be safe.

The filtrate does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also plays nicely with most common actives such as vitamin C, niacinamide and gentle acids, making it easy to slot into an existing routine.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Aspergillus/Rosa Damascena Leaf/Rice Ferment Filtrate can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential reactions, though they remain uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used properly.

Skin irritation – mild redness, tingling or stinging may occur in very sensitive individuals

Allergic contact dermatitis – rare but possible in people allergic to rose, rice proteins or fermentation byproducts

Breakouts – a small number of users with acne-prone skin may notice clogged pores if the overall formula is too rich or occlusive

Eye irritation – if the product accidentally gets into the eyes it can cause temporary discomfort or watering

If any of these effects develop stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5. Aspergillus/Rosa Damascena Leaf/Rice Ferment Filtrate is a water-based liquid that contains mainly low-molecular humectants and peptides rather than heavy oils or waxes that could block pores, so it is considered non-comedogenic.

That makes it generally suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts.

As always the finished product formula matters most, so pore-clogging can still occur if the filtrate is paired with rich butters or thick silicones.

Summary

Aspergillus/Rosa Damascena Leaf/Rice Ferment Filtrate is added to cosmetics primarily as a skin-conditioning agent. Fermentation breaks rose leaves and rice into skin-friendly sugars, amino acids and peptides that help attract moisture, reinforce the skin barrier and leave the surface smooth and supple.

While not yet as famous as ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, this gentle ferment is showing up more often in modern essences, serums and masks thanks to the growing popularity of fermentation technology in beauty.

Topical use is considered very safe with low risk of irritation or pore clogging. Still, skin is individual, so doing a small patch test with any new product is a smart move before applying it to the entire face.

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