What Is Bacillus/Monascus/Krill/Soybean Ferment Filtrate?
Bacillus/Monascus/Krill/Soybean Ferment Filtrate is a skin care ingredient created by fermenting soybeans and krill with two well-known microorganisms: Bacillus and Monascus. During fermentation the proteins, lipids and antioxidants in soy and krill are broken down into smaller molecules like peptides, amino acids, fatty acids and vitamins that skin can more readily absorb. Krill contributes marine omega-3s and the red pigment astaxanthin, while soy offers isoflavones and moisturizing sugars. Once fermentation is complete the mixture is carefully filtered so only the lightweight liquid filtrate remains, free of live microbes and large particles.
The idea of using fermented materials in beauty formulas stems from traditional Asian skin care where rice or soy ferments have been praised for their brightening and smoothing abilities for centuries. Modern labs adopted the same concept in the early 2000s, applying controlled fermentation to a wider mix of natural resources including marine ingredients. Bacillus/Monascus/Krill/Soybean Ferment Filtrate took shape as brands looked for multitasking actives that combine plant and marine nutrition with the skin-friendly benefits of fermentation.
Production starts with cleaned soybeans and sustainably sourced Antarctic krill. These are blended with water, inoculated with Bacillus and Monascus then held at warm temperatures for several days. The microbes secrete enzymes that digest the raw materials and release skin-loving compounds. After reaching the desired activity level the mixture is pasteurized to stop fermentation and is pressed or centrifuged to obtain a clear amber liquid. This filtrate is then standardized for use in cosmetics.
You will most often spot Bacillus/Monascus/Krill/Soybean Ferment Filtrate in hydrating serums, anti-aging creams, sheet masks, after-sun gels, eye treatments and any formula that aims to replenish moisture while fighting environmental stress.
Bacillus/Monascus/Krill/Soybean Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This fermented filtrate offers several benefits that make it a versatile addition to modern skin care.
- Antioxidant: Supplies astaxanthin, isoflavones and peptides that help neutralize free radicals generated by UV light or pollution, supporting a brighter more even tone and delaying visible signs of aging.
- Humectant: Delivers small sugars and amino acids that draw water into the upper layers of skin, boosting immediate hydration and improving plumpness.
- Skin Conditioning: The ferment smooths rough texture, supports the skin barrier and can leave the surface feeling softer and more resilient.
- Emollient: Provides lightweight marine and soy lipids that glide over the skin filling in microscopic gaps so skin feels silky and comfortable without a greasy finish.
Who Can Use Bacillus/Monascus/Krill/Soybean Ferment Filtrate
This ferment filtrate is generally suitable for normal, dry, combination and oily skin since it offers lightweight hydration without a heavy feel. Sensitive skin often tolerates it well thanks to the gentle nature of fermented molecules, though anyone with a known soy or shellfish allergy should avoid it because the source materials include soybean and krill proteins.
Because krill is an animal, the ingredient is not appropriate for vegans or strict vegetarians. It does fit within a pescatarian routine provided the product comes from a sustainably sourced krill fishery.
Current research shows no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the filtrate is used topically, but this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review all skincare choices with a healthcare professional to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, so there is no extra need for sun avoidance beyond normal daily SPF use. It is water soluble and plays well with most actives, making it easy to layer in both morning and evening routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Bacillus/Monascus/Krill/Soybean Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential issues and most people will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Allergic response: itching, hives or swelling in those sensitive to soy, shellfish or fermentation byproducts
- Skin irritation: temporary redness or stinging if the formula contains a high concentration or is combined with other strong actives
- Breakouts: occasional clogged pores in individuals who are highly acne prone or react to any new emollient
- Contact dermatitis: rare occurrence of rash or flaking in those with compromised skin barriers
- Unwanted odor change: fermented ingredients can develop a noticeable scent that some users find unpleasant
If any negative reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a qualified medical professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 The filtrate is mostly water based and contains small peptides, sugars and lightweight lipids that rinse away easily. It lacks the heavier waxes or butters that typically clog pores so the risk of congestion is very low. A few individuals who break out from any new emollient could still react, but overall the ingredient is considered non-clogging.
Acne-prone skin can generally use products with Bacillus/Monascus/Krill/Soybean Ferment Filtrate without added concern.
Formulas that pair this ferment with richer oils or occlusives could raise the overall comedogenicity of the final product, so always look at the full ingredient list if you are very breakout sensitive.
Summary
Bacillus/Monascus/Krill/Soybean Ferment Filtrate acts as an antioxidant, humectant, skin-conditioning agent and light emollient. Fermentation breaks soy and krill nutrients into smaller molecules that are better absorbed, supplying protective astaxanthin and isoflavones, water-binding amino acids and sugars, barrier-supportive peptides and silky marine lipids.
While not yet a mainstream star, the ingredient is popping up in niche K-beauty serums and a handful of global anti-aging formulas because it offers multiple benefits in one step.
Topical use is considered low risk for most skin types provided there are no soy or shellfish allergies. As with any new skincare product it is wise to perform a small patch test first to ensure personal compatibility.