What Is Bacillus/Monascus/Lavandula Angustifolia Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate?
Bacillus/Monascus/Lavandula Angustifolia Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate is a bio-fermented ingredient created by combining young lavender sprouts and nutrient-rich rice bran with two well-known microorganisms, Bacillus subtilis and Monascus purpureus. During fermentation these microbes break down plant material into smaller, skin-friendly molecules while also producing antioxidants, amino acids and gentle acids. The resulting liquid is then filtered to remove solids, leaving a clear to amber filtrate packed with beneficial compounds.
Fermentation has been used for centuries in food and skincare to boost nutrient content and improve stability. Korean and Japanese beauty researchers embraced this approach in the early 2000s to create milder yet potent actives, leading to the inclusion of this particular filtrate in modern formulations.
The ingredient is produced by soaking lavender sprouts and rice bran in a controlled growth medium, inoculating the mix with Bacillus and Monascus cultures, then allowing it to ferment at warm temperatures for several days. After fermentation the broth is filtered, sterilized and standardized for cosmetic use.
Because of its soothing profile and ability to protect formulas from light-induced degradation, you will often see this filtrate in serums, lightweight moisturizers, brightening or anti-aging essences, sheet masks and leave-on treatments that aim to calm skin while extending shelf life.
Bacillus/Monascus/Lavandula Angustifolia Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ferment offers two main functions that boost both product performance and skin feel
- Light stabilizer: Helps shield sensitive ingredients such as vitamins and botanical extracts from breaking down when exposed to light, so the overall formula remains effective for longer and color changes are minimized
- Skin conditioning: Delivers moisturizing sugars, peptides and antioxidants that soften the skin surface, enhance smoothness, support a healthy barrier and add a light, hydrating feel without greasiness
Who Can Use Bacillus/Monascus/Lavandula Angustifolia Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate
This ferment is considered gentle enough for most skin types, including normal, dry, combination and oily. Its lightweight water-like texture suits acne-prone skin and its soothing elements are appreciated by sensitive or redness-prone complexions. Those with a history of allergies to fermented ingredients or lavender should proceed with more caution, as the botanical origin could trigger a response in a small minority.
The ingredient is derived entirely from plant material and microorganisms, with no animal derivatives or by-products, so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current data shows no specific contraindications for pregnancy or breastfeeding. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product to their doctor before use to be safe.
Bacillus/Monascus/Lavandula Angustifolia Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate is not known to increase photosensitivity, and it can be used day or night without extra sun-related precautions beyond the daily sunscreen most dermatologists already recommend.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Bacillus/Monascus/Lavandula Angustifolia Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential outcomes only and most users will not experience any negative effects when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Skin irritation such as mild stinging or burning on application
- Redness or flushing, especially on very reactive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching or small bumps
- Breakouts or congestion in individuals highly sensitive to fermented extracts
- Eye irritation if the product is applied too close to the lash line
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and seek advice from a medical professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. This ferment filtrate is almost entirely water based with only trace amounts of lipids, so it lacks the heavy oils and waxes that typically clog pores. Its small peptides, sugars and acids are readily absorbed or evaporate, leaving little residue on the skin surface.
Because of the low rating it is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. Only those who react poorly to any type of ferment should proceed with caution.
Formulators sometimes pair the filtrate with richer emollients, so always look at the full ingredient list of the finished product if you are highly sensitive to pore-clogging ingredients.
Summary
Bacillus/Monascus/Lavandula Angustifolia Sprout/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate works primarily as a light stabilizer and a skin conditioning agent. The antioxidants and protective metabolites formed during fermentation help shield delicate actives from photo damage while the naturally generated amino acids, sugars and gentle acids hydrate and soften the skin barrier without heaviness.
The ingredient enjoys modest popularity in K-beauty and indie formulations but has yet to become a mainstream staple, largely due to its specialized production process and limited global supply.
Overall it is considered safe for everyday use with a low risk of irritation or pore clogging. As with any new skincare ingredient a quick patch test on a small area is a smart step before applying a full-face product.