Bacillus/Calcium Carbonate/Corn Starch/Soybean Oil/Seed 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 publicly available nomenclature standards and reference materials from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) and the European Commission's CosIng database. Our analyses are based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Bacillus/Calcium Carbonate/Corn Starch/Soybean Oil/Seed Ferment Filtrate?

Bacillus/Calcium Carbonate/Corn Starch/Soybean Oil/Seed Ferment Filtrate is a skin-friendly liquid made by letting the helpful Lactobacillus bacteria ferment a mix of finely ground calcium carbonate, corn starch, soybean oil and soybean seeds. During fermentation the bacteria break down these raw materials and release skin-loving proteins, sugars and fatty acids into the surrounding fluid. The finished filtrate is then separated from solid residues and purified, leaving a lightweight ingredient rich in mild conditioning compounds.

The idea of using fermented plant oils and starches in beauty care began in Asia, where fermented rice water and soybean extracts have been used for centuries to soften skin. Modern labs expanded on this by adding mineral calcium carbonate and controlling the process with Bacillus strains, giving formulators a consistent and stable ingredient that keeps the natural goodness of soy and corn while boosting skin tolerance.

Production starts with food-grade calcium carbonate, non-GMO corn starch and soybean oil. These are blended with warm water, inoculated with Lactobacillus and left to ferment under strict temperature and pH control. After several days the mix is filtered, and the clear liquid is collected, standardized and preserved so it stays fresh when added to cosmetics.

You will most often spot this filtrate in leave-on lotions, lightweight creams, hydrating serums, soothing masks and gentle anti-aging formulas where brands want a plant-based alternative to synthetic conditioners.

Bacillus/Calcium Carbonate/Corn Starch/Soybean Oil/Seed Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This fermented blend is valued for one key role in skin care products.

Skin conditioning: The filtrate deposits a thin veil of amino acids, natural sugars and lipids on the surface of the skin. This helps smooth rough patches, supports a soft touch, improves moisture retention and leaves the complexion looking healthy without a greasy feel.

Who Can Use Bacillus/Calcium Carbonate/Corn Starch/Soybean Oil/Seed Ferment Filtrate

This gentle ferment fits most skin types, including dry, normal, combination and slightly oily skin. Its light texture adds softness without a heavy film so even acne-prone users often tolerate it well. Very oily or highly sensitive skin may still prefer to introduce it slowly since the natural lipids could feel too rich for some or cause temporary flushing in reactive complexions.

The ingredient is produced from mineral calcium carbonate, corn, soybean oil and soy seeds then fermented by Lactobacillus. No animal-derived matter is involved, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Current data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the filtrate is used in leave-on cosmetics. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should show the full product label to a healthcare professional before daily use just to be safe.

The filtrate does not increase sun sensitivity. It also plays well with most common actives such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and gentle plant oils.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Bacillus/Calcium Carbonate/Corn Starch/Soybean Oil/Seed Ferment Filtrate differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects only and most users will not notice any problems when the ingredient has been properly formulated into a product.

Transient redness or warmth

Mild itching on very sensitive skin

Rare clogging or increased oiliness on extremely oily skin

Allergic response in individuals with a soy allergy

If irritation or another unwanted reaction appears stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified medical professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 2/5 – The filtrate contains a small amount of residual soybean lipids that can block pores in very oily skin yet the fermentation process breaks down much of the heavier oil and starch molecules, lowering their clogging potential. Most of the finished material is water-based and lightweight so it sits closer to the non-comedogenic side of the scale.

Generally suitable for acne-prone users but those with persistently congested or extremely oily skin may prefer to monitor how their complexion responds.

Because every finished product uses the filtrate at different levels its real-world pore-clogging risk also depends on the other ingredients in the formula.

Summary

Bacillus/Calcium Carbonate/Corn Starch/Soybean Oil/Seed Ferment Filtrate is primarily a skin-conditioning agent that smooths texture, boosts surface hydration and leaves skin feeling soft. It does this by delivering a blend of naturally fermented amino acids, sugars and light lipids that mimic skin’s own moisturizing factors and support a healthy barrier.

Although you will not see it in every mainstream moisturizer it is gaining quiet popularity among clean beauty and K-beauty brands looking for plant-based alternatives to synthetic conditioners.

Current data and typical usage levels suggest the filtrate is low risk for irritation aside from those with soy allergies. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a fresh product before full-face use to ensure your skin agrees with it.

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