Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Tetragenococcus/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/Saccharomyces/Tetragenococcus/Rice Ferment Filtrate?

Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Tetragenococcus/Rice Ferment Filtrate comes from fermenting rice (Oryza sativa) with three friendly microbes: Aspergillus, Saccharomyces and Tetragenococcus. During fermentation these microorganisms break rice starches into smaller molecules like amino acids, peptides, sugars and organic acids. What you get after filtering out the solids is a watery liquid rich in skin-loving nutrients and natural moisturizers.

Fermented rice liquids have been used for centuries in East Asia as hair and skin rinses. Modern cosmetic chemists refined the process by selecting specific microbial strains, controlling temperature and time then passing the brew through fine filters to remove residue. The result is a clear, lightweight filtrate that blends easily into creams, gels and serums.

You will often spot this ingredient in hydrating face masks, daily moisturizers, brightening essences, anti-aging serums and soothing after-sun treatments. Because it is water-based and mild it suits leave-on as well as rinse-off formulas.

Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Tetragenococcus/Rice Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skin care this ferment tackles two key jobs that help products feel better and work harder.

  • Humectant: Pulls water from the air and the deeper layers of skin to the surface leaving skin soft plump and refreshed. This boost in hydration can make fine lines look smoother and improve the spreadability of a product.
  • Skin conditioning: Supplies amino acids and vitamins that support the skin barrier helping it stay resilient against dryness and environmental stress. This can lead to a healthier glow and a more even texture over time.

Who Can Use Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Tetragenococcus/Rice Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is gentle enough for nearly all skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin because it is water light and free of common irritants like fragrance and alcohol. Extremely reactive or infection-prone skin should still proceed with caution since any ferment can introduce trace bio-components that might upset an already compromised barrier.

The ingredient is derived solely from rice and microorganisms so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. No animal byproducts are involved in the culturing or filtration steps.

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals can generally use products containing this ferment because it is applied topically and not known to penetrate deeply or disrupt hormones. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should clear all skincare products with a healthcare professional to be extra safe.

The filtrate does not cause photosensitivity and it pairs well with daytime routines. Normal sun protection practices still apply.

It mixes comfortably with most cosmetic actives such as niacinamide, vitamin C and gentle exfoliating acids making formulation conflicts rare.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Tetragenococcus/Rice Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects however they are uncommon when the ingredient is used at standard cosmetic levels.

  • Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin during initial uses
  • Itchiness or hives in individuals allergic to rice proteins or yeast derivatives
  • Fungal folliculitis-like breakouts in people highly prone to malassezia overgrowth
  • Excess surface moisture that can leave skin feeling tacky if layered too thickly

If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5 – non-comedogenic

This ferment filtrate is almost entirely water with lightweight amino acids sugars and minerals. It contains no heavy oils or waxes that can block pores so it earns the lowest possible score on the comedogenic scale.

That makes it a friendly choice for skin that clogs or breaks out easily although the overall formula of the product still matters. If a cream pairs this filtrate with rich butter or thick silicones the final pore-clogging risk will rise.

Summary

Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Tetragenococcus/Rice Ferment Filtrate acts mainly as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent. Its blend of fermented rice water draws moisture into the skin then supplies amino acids vitamins and soothing organic acids that help strengthen the barrier and smooth texture.

The ingredient has a solid following in Korean and Japanese skin care where watery essences and lotions are popular but it is still a bit of a hidden gem in many Western lines. As more brands explore gentle fermented actives its presence is slowly growing.

Overall safety is high. It is non-comedogenic vegan and rarely irritates. Still skin is personal so give any new product a quick patch test to be sure it plays nicely with your unique complexion.

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