What Is Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Extract Filtrate?
Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Extract Filtrate is a liquid obtained after fermenting rice with two friendly microorganisms, Aspergillus and Saccharomyces. During fermentation these microbes break down rice starches and proteins into skin-loving molecules such as amino acids, peptides, minerals and simple sugars. The resulting filtrate is then separated from the solid rice residue, refined and preserved for cosmetic use.
The idea of using fermented rice water for beauty is far from new. Centuries ago women in parts of East Asia rinsed their hair and skin with leftover rice water to keep it soft and bright. Modern cosmetic science picked up on this folk practice in the late 20th century, identifying how controlled fermentation boosts the concentration of moisturizing compounds and makes them more skin-compatible. Today the filtrate is produced in stainless-steel tanks under strict hygiene standards, where temperature, pH and fermentation time are carefully managed. After fermentation the mixture is filtered, leaving a clear or slightly milky liquid that is then standardized for consistency before it goes into formulas.
You are most likely to find Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Extract Filtrate in hydrating toners, lightweight moisturizers, sheet masks, essence-style treatments and brightening serums. It also appears in some anti-aging creams where it pairs well with other humectants and botanical extracts to boost overall water retention.
Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for its ability to attract and hold water at the skin’s surface, helping formulas deliver an instant and lasting shot of hydration.
Humectant: As a humectant it pulls moisture from the environment and the deeper layers of the skin toward the outer layer, keeping skin plump and smooth. By maintaining water balance it can soften the appearance of fine lines, support a healthy skin barrier and enhance the spreadability of creams, gels and serums.
Who Can Use Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Extract Filtrate?
This ferment filtrate is gentle and water based so it suits nearly all skin types, from oily to dry and even sensitive. Its lightweight texture absorbs fast without leaving a greasy film, which makes it comfortable for acne-prone or combination skin. Very dry skin may need a richer cream on top to lock in the moisture it attracts, while highly reactive skin should look for formulas free of added fragrance or alcohol to minimize any chance of irritation.
The ingredient comes from rice and microorganisms, with no animal derived inputs, so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly.
There is no published evidence linking topical use of this ferment to problems during pregnancy or breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product they plan to use to their doctor just to be safe.
The filtrate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not regarded as a photosensitizer. Daily sunscreen is still recommended as part of a basic routine to protect overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Extract Filtrate vary from person to person. The following points outline possible but uncommon reactions when the ingredient is applied topically. Most users experience none of these issues when the product is formulated correctly.
- Mild redness or itching very sensitive skin may react to the natural acids or residual proteins formed during fermentation
- Stinging on compromised skin freshly exfoliated or broken skin can feel a brief sting as the liquid penetrates
- Allergic contact dermatitis rare immune response to rice proteins or fermentation byproducts can cause swelling or rash
- Fungal acne flare in predisposed users the moist environment created by humectants may aggravate an existing Malassezia imbalance
If any irritation or discomfort develops stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1 (very low)
Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Extract Filtrate is a water based liquid with no heavy oils or waxes so it does not block pores on its own. The molecules it contains are mostly small humectants such as amino acids and sugars that dissolve quickly, leaving little residue. A trace amount of fermented rice proteins could cling to the skin, which is why it is given a cautious 1 instead of a perfect 0.
Because of this low score the ingredient is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind the finished product’s overall formula matters more than any single raw material. If the rest of the product is rich in butters or comedogenic oils, pore clogging is still possible even though this ferment itself is low risk.
Summary
Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Extract Filtrate is mainly used as a humectant. By drawing water from the air and deeper layers of skin it boosts surface hydration, plumps fine lines and helps keep the skin barrier comfortable. The amino acids, peptides and minerals created during rice fermentation add a mild skin conditioning effect that can leave the complexion softer and smoother.
The ferment has gained steady popularity thanks to the rise of K-beauty inspired toners, essences and sheet masks, yet it is still a supporting act rather than a headline ingredient in most Western formulas.
Current data show it is safe for topical use with a very low rate of irritation. As with any new skincare product it is smart to do a small patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.