Bacillus/Lactobacillus/Stevia Rebaudiana Stalk Extract 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/Lactobacillus/Stevia Rebaudiana Stalk Extract Ferment Filtrate?

Bacillus/Lactobacillus/Stevia Rebaudiana Stalk Extract Ferment Filtrate starts with the stalks of the stevia plant, a leafy herb best known for its sweet leaves. The stalks are ground and soaked to pull out water-soluble compounds like natural sugars, amino acids and small amounts of minerals. This plant extract is then introduced to two friendly microorganisms, Bacillus and Lactobacillus. Over several days these microbes break down the extract through fermentation, creating skin-loving by-products such as peptides, moisturising sugars and organic acids. After fermentation the mix is carefully filtered to remove the bacteria, leaving behind a clear liquid rich in these new compounds.

Fermented plant ingredients gained popularity in Korean beauty labs in the early 2010s. Scientists noticed that fermentation makes plant extracts more compatible with skin, so brands began adding them to hydrating and soothing products. Today this particular ferment filtrate is found in lightweight facial essences, sheet masks, daily moisturisers, after-sun gels and anti-aging serums where a boost of water binding power is desired.

Bacillus/Lactobacillus/Stevia Rebaudiana Stalk Extract Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is valued for one main job in skincare.

Humectant: It attracts water from the environment and pulls it toward the upper layers of the skin. By holding onto that moisture it helps keep skin feeling soft and plump, reduces the look of fine lines and supports a smooth, fresh finish in creams, gels and masks.

Who Can Use Bacillus/Lactobacillus/Stevia Rebaudiana Stalk Extract Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Oily and acne-prone complexions appreciate its water-light, non-greasy texture while dry or mature skin benefits from the extra moisture it pulls in. Sensitive skin usually gets along with it too because it lacks added fragrance or strong acids.

Vegans and vegetarians can feel comfortable using it. The source materials are plant stalks and the fermentation relies on bacteria cultured in a lab, not on any animal-derived medium.

Current research shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is applied topically in cosmetic amounts. Still this is not medical advice — anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full ingredient list of a product to their healthcare professional before adding it to a routine.

The filtrate does not make skin more reactive to sunlight so there is no extra photosensitivity risk. People with a known allergy to stevia or fermented ingredients should proceed cautiously though this is rare.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Bacillus/Lactobacillus/Stevia Rebaudiana Stalk Extract Ferment Filtrate differ from person to person. The points below outline possible side effects but most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Redness or mild irritation
  • Itchiness for those with very sensitive skin
  • Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to stevia or fermentation by-products
  • Transient tingling if applied to freshly exfoliated or compromised skin

If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)

This filtrate is a thin water-like liquid rich in small, skin-compatible molecules produced during fermentation. It contains no heavy oils, waxes or fatty acids that are typically responsible for clogging pores, so it earns the lowest score on the comedogenic scale.

Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin since it hydrates without leaving an occlusive film.

Formulators often pair it with oil-free gels and essences aimed at blemish control because it delivers moisture without contributing to congestion.

Summary

Bacillus/Lactobacillus/Stevia Rebaudiana Stalk Extract Ferment Filtrate is a fermented plant ingredient used primarily as a humectant. The fermentation process creates small peptides, sugars and organic acids that pull water into the upper skin layers keeping skin supple and smooth. Because it is light and water-soluble it boosts hydration while maintaining a non-greasy feel.

Although not as mainstream as hyaluronic acid the ingredient enjoys steady popularity in Korean and indie skincare lines that focus on gentle hydration and postbiotic benefits. Its clean safety record, vegan origin and compatibility with most skin types make it an attractive choice for formulators looking to add fermentation tech to their products.

Current data shows it is safe at typical cosmetic levels with very low risk of irritation or pore clogging. As with any new skincare product a simple patch test is a smart step before full-face use just to rule out individual sensitivities.

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