Bacillus/Vigna Angularis Seed 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 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/Vigna Angularis Seed Ferment Filtrate?

Bacillus/Vigna Angularis Seed Ferment Filtrate starts with adzuki beans, the small red seeds of the plant Vigna angularis that has been a staple in East Asian cuisine and skincare rituals for centuries. When these beans are fermented with the friendly microorganism Bacillus, the process breaks down large compounds into smaller skin-loving molecules, then the mixture is filtered to remove solids. The result is a lightweight liquid rich in amino acids, peptides, and natural sugars that skin can readily absorb.

Fermentation boosts the bean’s nutrient profile, creating a filtrate that delivers moisture and antioxidant support without the heaviness of raw plant extracts. Its rise in cosmetics began with Korean beauty formulators looking for gentle botanical alternatives to harsher synthetic actives. Today it appears in serums, sheet masks, gel moisturizers, soothing lotions, anti aging creams, and rinse off treatments that aim to hydrate and protect the skin’s barrier.

Bacillus/Vigna Angularis Seed Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This fermented bean filtrate brings several helpful actions to a formula

  • Humectant – draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface so skin feels plump and looks dewy
  • Skin Conditioning – supplies amino acids and peptides that soften texture making skin smoother to the touch
  • Emollient – forms a light flexible layer that fills in tiny cracks so the complexion feels supple and less tight
  • Skin Protecting – reinforces the natural barrier helping defend against irritation dryness and environmental stress

Who Can Use Bacillus/Vigna Angularis Seed Ferment Filtrate

Thanks to its lightweight texture and balanced mix of humectant and emollient components this filtrate suits nearly every skin type. Dry skin welcomes the extra moisture, oily skin benefits from hydration without heavy oils, combination skin appreciates its versatility and sensitive skin often tolerates the gentle fermented liquid well. People with an existing allergy to legumes or fermented ingredients should proceed with caution because the source bean and fermentation by-products could trigger irritation.

The ingredient is produced from a plant seed and bacteria, with no animal derived components or processing aids, so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian preferences.

No data indicate problems for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the filtrate is used topically at cosmetic levels, yet this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should show any skincare formula to a qualified healthcare provider for added reassurance.

It does not increase sensitivity to sunlight and pairs smoothly with sunscreens and other daytime products. The filtrate also mixes well with common actives like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid making formulation layering straightforward.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Individual responses to topical Bacillus/Vigna Angularis Seed Ferment Filtrate can vary. The following outlines potential but uncommon reactions a small number of users might experience when the ingredient is correctly formulated in a product.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis presenting as redness itching or rash
  • Mild stinging or burning on highly compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Pimple flare-ups in those extremely prone to acne if the finished product contains other comedogenic ingredients
  • Rare cross-reactivity in people with legume allergies

If any discomfort or persistent reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0–1.

This filtrate is water based, low in oils and waxes and absorbs quickly so it is unlikely to clog pores. No data link it to increased comedones and its lightweight molecular profile lets it sit on skin without forming an occlusive film. For these reasons formulators usually consider it non comedogenic or minimally comedogenic.

Suitable for acne or breakout prone skin.

Keep in mind the finished product matters too. If the formula pairs the filtrate with heavier oils or silicones the overall comedogenic profile can shift upward.

Summary

Bacillus/Vigna Angularis Seed Ferment Filtrate acts as a humectant, skin conditioner, emollient and skin protectant. Fermentation turns adzuki bean nutrients into smaller amino acids, peptides and sugars that draw moisture to skin, smooth rough patches, create a soft flexible surface layer and help reinforce the barrier.

While not yet a household name it is gaining traction in K beauty inspired serums, masks and light creams thanks to its gentle hydration and vegan origin.

Current research and real world use show it is well tolerated with few side effects, making it a safe pick for most routines. Still, every skin is different so patch testing a new product that contains this ingredient is a smart step.

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