What Is Bacillus/Morus Alba Leaf/Soybean Seed Ferment Filtrate?
Bacillus/Morus Alba Leaf/Soybean Seed Ferment Filtrate is a plant-based skincare ingredient created by fermenting soybean seeds and white mulberry leaves with the help of a friendly Bacillus microorganism. During fermentation the plant material is broken down into smaller molecules such as amino acids, organic acids, peptides and antioxidants that skin can more easily recognize and use. This bio-processing also reduces potential irritants naturally found in raw plant matter and enriches the final liquid with skin-loving nutrients.
Fermented botanicals have been staples in traditional beauty routines across East Asia for centuries, prized for their gentle yet effective performance. Modern cosmetic labs picked up on this heritage in the early 2000s when Korean beauty brands began showcasing fermented extracts for their improved absorption and potency. Bacillus/Morus Alba Leaf/Soybean Seed Ferment Filtrate soon joined the roster thanks to its balanced mix of oil-regulating, soothing and protective qualities.
To make the filtrate producers first clean and mill soybean seeds and mulberry leaves into a fine slurry. They then add a carefully selected strain of Bacillus, maintain a warm oxygenated environment and let fermentation run for several days. Afterward the mixture is filtered to remove solids, yielding a clear to light brown liquid that is stable and easy to blend into water-based formulas.
You will most often see this ingredient in lightweight moisturizers, balancing toners, clarifying serums, sheet masks and leave-on treatments aimed at oil control, blemish prevention or daily antioxidant support.
Bacillus/Morus Alba Leaf/Soybean Seed Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ferment brings several useful actions to a formula:
- Anti-Sebum: Helps regulate excess oil, giving skin a fresher matte look while reducing the chance of clogged pores
- Antimicrobial: Creates an unfriendly setting for blemish-causing bacteria which can aid in keeping breakouts at bay
- Antioxidant: Supplies natural compounds that neutralize free radicals, supporting a more youthful appearance and shielding skin from daily environmental stress
- Emollient: Softens and smooths the skin surface, improving texture and enhancing comfort without a heavy feel
Who Can Use Bacillus/Morus Alba Leaf/Soybean Seed Ferment Filtrate
This gentle ferment suits most skin types including oily, combination and acne-prone skin thanks to its oil-balancing and calming nature. Dry or mature skin can benefit from its light emollient and antioxidant touch, though they may want to pair it with a richer moisturizer for added comfort. Highly sensitive skin tends to tolerate the ingredient well, yet anyone with a known soy allergy should approach with caution because the source material is soybean.
The filtrate is produced solely from plant leaves and seeds through microbial fermentation without any animal-derived substances, making it acceptable for vegans and vegetarians.
No data suggest that the ingredient poses a special risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should discuss new skincare products with a qualified healthcare professional to be safe.
Bacillus/Morus Alba Leaf/Soybean Seed Ferment Filtrate does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daily sunscreen habits are still encouraged for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Bacillus/Morus Alba Leaf/Soybean Seed Ferment Filtrate differ from person to person. The following points outline possible, though uncommon, side effects. When the ingredient is properly formulated most users will not experience these issues.
- Irritation: temporary redness, warmth or mild stinging can appear on sensitive skin
- Allergic response: itchiness or hives may occur in individuals with a soy or mulberry allergy
- Contact dermatitis: rare cases of swelling or rash if the skin barrier is already compromised
- Dry patches: overuse in very dry skin types could lead to a tight feeling
If discomfort or an unexpected reaction develops discontinue use and consult a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
This watery ferment filtrate is mostly composed of small peptides, amino acids and antioxidants produced during fermentation. It contains very little residual oil or large fatty molecules that could clog pores. The presence of light humectant and soothing compounds keeps it skin friendly without forming an occlusive film, which is why it earns a low score of 1.
Because of its near non-comedogenic nature the ingredient is generally suitable for people prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
As with most botanical ferments the exact composition can vary by batch, but reputable suppliers test each lot to maintain low lipid content and consistent purity which helps keep pore-clogging risk minimal.
Summary
Bacillus/Morus Alba Leaf/Soybean Seed Ferment Filtrate acts as an anti-sebum balancer, a mild antimicrobial, a source of plant-derived antioxidants and a feather-light emollient. Fermentation breaks down soybeans and mulberry leaves into micro-nutrients that calm oil glands, discourage blemish-causing bacteria, mop up free radicals and leave skin smoother without heaviness.
While not yet a mainstream household name the filtrate has been gaining traction in K-beauty inspired toners, gels and sheet masks thanks to its multitasking benefits and clean label appeal.
Topically the ingredient is regarded as safe for the vast majority of users. It is vegan, free of common irritants and does not heighten sun sensitivity. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so performing a small patch test with any new product that contains this ferment is a smart precaution.