Bacillus/Clover Flower/Soybean 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/Clover Flower/Soybean Ferment Filtrate?

Bacillus/Clover Flower/Soybean Ferment Filtrate is a liquid derived from fermenting soybeans (Glycine max) and clover blossoms (Trifolium pratense) with a friendly soil bacterium called Bacillus. During fermentation the microbe breaks down plant proteins and sugars into smaller molecules such as peptides, amino acids, antioxidants and skin-loving sugars. These lighter compounds absorb more easily and give the filtrate its conditioning and protective qualities.

Fermented plant extracts first gained attention in Asian beauty routines where they were prized for gentle effectiveness. As the global industry embraced clean and bioactive ingredients formulators began to explore mixed-botanical ferments like this one to deliver both nourishment and antioxidant defense without harsh additives.

Production starts with finely milled soybeans and dried clover flowers blended in water. Bacillus is introduced and the mixture is kept at a controlled warm temperature for several days. After fermentation the liquid is filtered to remove solids and then standardized for use in cosmetics.

You will usually spot Bacillus/Clover Flower/Soybean Ferment Filtrate in moisturizers, anti-aging serums, soothing masks, lightweight facial mists, leave-on hair conditioners and restorative scalp tonics where it supports softness and protection.

Bacillus/Clover Flower/Soybean Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multitasking ferment brings several useful functions to personal care formulas

  • Antioxidant – helps neutralize surface free radicals created by sun exposure and pollution which can otherwise contribute to dullness and early signs of aging
  • Hair Conditioning – coats strands with natural peptides and sugars to boost smoothness reduce static and add light softness without weight
  • Skin Conditioning – supplies amino acids and moisturising factors that support a healthy barrier leaving skin feeling supple and calm
  • Emollient – forms a thin comforting film that locks in water helping rough or dry areas feel softer and more flexible

Who Can Use Bacillus/Clover Flower/Soybean Ferment Filtrate

This ferment is generally well tolerated by every skin type. Dry and mature skin appreciate its emollient and antioxidant boost while oily and combination skin enjoy the light texture that does not feel greasy. Sensitive skin usually fares well since the fermentation process reduces many of the raw plant allergens yet anyone with a known soy or clover allergy should approach with caution as trace proteins may remain.

The ingredient is suitable for vegans and vegetarians because it is produced solely from plant material and a naturally occurring soil bacterium rather than animal-derived substances.

No data suggest any risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the filtrate is used topically in cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice though so anyone who is expecting or nursing should still show the full product list to their healthcare provider before adding it to a routine.

Bacillus/Clover Flower/Soybean Ferment Filtrate does not cause photosensitivity and can be used morning or night without increasing sun reactivity. It also plays nicely with common actives like vitamin C niacinamide and peptides.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to any skincare ingredient vary between individuals. The following is a list of potential side effects that could occur yet most users will never encounter them when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as directed.

  • Allergic reaction in those sensitive to soy or clover proteins leading to redness itching or hives
  • Transient stinging or warmth on very reactive or compromised skin
  • Rare cases of clogged pores or surface breakouts especially in individuals prone to fungal acne due to the ferment’s natural sugars
  • Mild scalp irritation if applied in leave-on hair products on an already inflamed scalp

If any unwanted reaction appears stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

Bacillus/Clover Flower/Soybean Ferment Filtrate is mostly water soluble and composed of small peptides, amino acids and sugars rather than heavy oils or waxes. Fermentation breaks down soybean lipids that could otherwise clog pores so only trace amounts of residual oil remain. Because of this light composition it rarely builds up inside follicles which keeps the comedogenic risk low.

Suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin in most cases.

People who struggle with fungal acne might want to monitor their skin when first using it since its natural sugars can occasionally feed surface yeast.

Summary

Bacillus/Clover Flower/Soybean Ferment Filtrate delivers antioxidant protection, skin and hair conditioning and mild emollient care. Fermentation turns soybean and clover proteins into readily absorbed peptides and humectant sugars that reinforce the moisture barrier, soften strands and help neutralise daily oxidative stress.

While not yet a mainstream powerhouse it is gaining attention within clean beauty circles that value fermented botanicals for gentle efficacy.

Topical use is considered very safe for the vast majority of consumers with only rare allergy related reactions reported. As with any new skincare ingredient a simple patch test remains a smart precaution before full face or scalp application.

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