What Is Bacillus/Dendropanax Morbiferus Sap Extract Ferment Filtrate?
Bacillus/Dendropanax Morbiferus Sap Extract Ferment Filtrate is a fermented blend made from two main raw materials: the sap drawn from the stems of the Dendropanax morbiferus tree and nutrient rich soybeans. During production these natural sources are mixed and allowed to ferment with the help of Bacillus, a friendly soil-born microorganism often used in food fermentation. After the microbes break down the larger plant molecules the mixture is filtered, leaving behind a clear liquid that is packed with smaller peptides, sugars and amino acids that skin can readily absorb.
This ingredient is fairly new on the beauty scene. Brands in South Korea began exploring unusual tree saps a little over a decade ago to find gentler alternatives to synthetic humectants. When formulators discovered that fermenting Dendropanax sap with Bacillus boosted its antioxidant levels the filtrate quickly found its way into hydrating and anti-aging lines.
Today you will most often spot Bacillus/Dendropanax Morbiferus Sap Extract Ferment Filtrate in lightweight moisturizers, soothing sheet masks, leave-on hair conditioners, emulsions that need extra stability and multi-tasking serums aimed at guarding the skin barrier.
Bacillus/Dendropanax Morbiferus Sap Extract Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ferment delivers several perks to both skin and hair care formulas:
- Emulsion stabilising: Helps keep oil and water parts of a cream or lotion from separating which makes the product stay smooth and usable for longer
- Hair conditioning: Forms a light film on strands that boosts softness and adds slip so hair feels manageable without weight
- Humectant: Draws water from the air and pulls it into the upper layers of skin providing a quick hit of moisture that can plump fine lines
- Skin conditioning: Supplies amino acids and sugars that leave skin feeling soft supple and hydrated after rinse off or leave on use
- Skin protecting: Supports the natural barrier by adding a breathable layer that reduces moisture loss and shields against daily environmental stress
Who Can Use Bacillus/Dendropanax Morbiferus Sap Extract Ferment Filtrate
This fermented filtrate is lightweight and non greasy so it suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and mildly dry skin. Its humectant action can also benefit dehydrated or mature skin that needs extra moisture. Very dry or compromised skin may need a richer occlusive on top since the ferment itself will not lock in water as effectively as heavier butters or waxes.
The ingredient is plant derived and the fermentation step uses the microorganism Bacillus, a bacterium that is not sourced from animals. No animal byproducts are involved in its production so it fits vegan and vegetarian preferences.
Current research shows no specific hazards for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the filtrate is used topically in cosmetic amounts. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare choice past a qualified healthcare professional just to be safe.
The filtrate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it can be used both day and night without increasing the risk of sunburn. As with any new botanical ferment people with a known sensitivity to soy or tree saps should scan the full ingredient list of a product before use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Bacillus/Dendropanax Morbiferus Sap Extract Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is included at typical cosmetic levels and formulated correctly.
- Redness or flushing
- Mild stinging or tingling immediately after application
- Itchiness or tight feeling in very sensitive skin
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to soy or tree sap constituents
- Rare acne like breakouts if paired with overly occlusive bases on blemish prone skin
If you notice any persistent discomfort or irritation stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
This filtrate is mainly water, small peptides, sugars and amino acids so it sinks in quickly and leaves very little residue. It does not include heavy oils or waxes that typically clog pores which keeps its comedogenic potential low. A trace amount of naturally occurring fatty components from soybean may cause issues for a small subset of very reactive skin, but at the low levels used in finished formulas the risk of blocked pores is minimal.
Overall it is considered friendly for those who are prone to acne or breakouts, especially when used in lightweight lotions, gels or serums.
Keep in mind that the final pore-clogging potential of any product will also depend on the other ingredients and the texture of the full formula.
Summary
Bacillus/Dendropanax Morbiferus Sap Extract Ferment Filtrate acts as a humectant, skin conditioner, skin protectant, hair conditioner and emulsion stabiliser. The fermentation step breaks large sap and soybean molecules into smaller pieces that bind water, reinforce the skin barrier and smooth hair cuticles while also helping creams stay uniformly mixed.
Although still a niche ingredient outside South Korea it has been gaining quiet traction with indie and K-beauty brands that want to highlight fermented botanicals.
Current data shows it is safe for topical use with a very low chance of irritation for most people. As with any new cosmetic active it is wise to do a quick patch test before adding it to your daily routine just to make sure your skin agrees with it.