Bacillus/Trapa Japonica Fruit 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
Share:
Inside this article:

All information on this page is verified using The Personal Care Products Council's (PCPC) INCI database. Our ingredient analyses are based exclusively on PCPC's technical data to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Bacillus/Trapa Japonica Fruit Extract Ferment Filtrate?

Bacillus/Trapa Japonica Fruit Extract Ferment Filtrate comes from the edible water chestnut known as Trapa japonica. Makers start by taking the fruit and creating a watery extract rich in natural sugars, minerals and gentle antioxidants. They then add a safe strain of the Bacillus bacterium, let the mixture ferment, and finally filter out the solid pieces. The clear liquid that remains is packed with small peptides, amino acids and moisturising factors that form during fermentation.

Fermented plant extracts rose to fame in Korean skin care, where brands looked for milder yet more effective ways to soften and brighten skin. Thanks to this trend, the filtrate of fermented Trapa japonica has found its way into mainstream beauty lines around the world.

The ingredient is now seen in hydrating toners, daily serums, sheet masks, lightweight moisturisers, soothing after-sun gels and anti aging creams that promise smoother, fresher looking skin.

Bacillus/Trapa Japonica Fruit Extract Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This filtrate is prized for its role as a skin-conditioning agent that helps skin feel soft, balanced and comfortable after application.

Who Can Use Bacillus/Trapa Japonica Fruit Extract Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is gentle enough for most skin types including oily, combination, dry, sensitive and mature skin. Its lightweight water based texture sinks in quickly so it does not weigh down oilier complexions while the added amino acids help lock in moisture for drier skin. Sensitive users usually tolerate it well because the fermentation step tends to lower the level of irritating compounds.

The ingredient is plant derived and the fermentation is carried out by a food-grade bacterium, so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. No animal by-products are used in the process.

Current data show no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and the filtrate is not known to enter the bloodstream in meaningful amounts. Still, this is not medical advice. Anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products to their routine.

Bacillus/Trapa Japonica Fruit Extract Ferment Filtrate is not photo-sensitising, meaning it will not make skin more sensitive to the sun. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical use of Bacillus/Trapa Japonica Fruit Extract Ferment Filtrate can vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated in a finished product.

Redness or flushing

Mild itching or stinging at the application site

Dry patches if the formula contains a high level of alcohol or astringents alongside the filtrate

Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to Trapa japonica or fermentation by-products

If any of these reactions occur, stop using the product immediately and seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Bacillus/Trapa Japonica Fruit Extract Ferment Filtrate is a water-light liquid that contains virtually no oils or waxes that could block pores. The fermentation process also breaks larger plant molecules into smaller skin-friendly compounds that rinse away easily, reducing any chance of buildup. Because of this it is considered non-comedogenic and is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

Do remember that the overall formula matters; if the filtrate is paired with heavy butters or occlusive silicones, the finished product may still clog pores even though this single ingredient does not.

Summary

Bacillus/Trapa Japonica Fruit Extract Ferment Filtrate works primarily as a skin-conditioning agent, meaning it helps skin stay soft, hydrated and comfortable. Fermentation creates small peptides, amino acids and natural humectants that draw water into the outer layers of skin while calming mild irritation.

The ingredient enjoys moderate popularity, especially in Korean and indie skincare circles that value fermented botanicals. It is less common in mass-market Western lines but is steadily gaining traction as consumers look for lighter alternatives to heavy moisturisers.

Safety data are reassuring; reactions are rare and the ferment is mild enough for daily use on most skin types. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to perform a brief patch test when trying a product for the first time to rule out individual sensitivities.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search