What Is Crosslinked Bacillus/Glucose/Sodium Glutamate Ferment?
Crosslinked Bacillus/Glucose/Sodium Glutamate Ferment is a naturally derived polymer created when the helpful soil bacterium Bacillus subtilis ferments simple glucose and the amino-acid salt sodium glutamate. After fermentation the resulting biopolymer is hit with controlled irradiation, which crosslinks the chains and makes a more robust three-dimensional network. The end product is a sponge-like molecule that swells with water yet feels light and silky on skin and hair.
The concept of using fermented polymers in beauty dates back to the early 2000s when brands started looking for plant- or microbe-sourced thickeners to replace synthetic carbomers. Crosslinking was later added to boost stability so the ingredient could survive heat, pH swings and vigorous shaking during manufacturing and consumer use.
Production starts with food-grade glucose and sodium glutamate dissolved in water. Bacillus subtilis is added and allowed to ferment under sterile, temperature-controlled conditions. Once the desired viscosity is reached the mixture is filtered to remove cells, then exposed to a precise dose of electron beam or gamma irradiation that locks the polymer chains together. The finished gel is dried or kept in solution, then blended into cosmetic bases.
You will find Crosslinked Bacillus/Glucose/Sodium Glutamate Ferment in lightweight moisturizers, hydrating serums, sheet mask essences, soothing gels, anti-aging creams, styling gels, curl creams and aerosol-free setting sprays where it lends body and a soft flexible hold.
Crosslinked Bacillus/Glucose/Sodium Glutamate Ferment’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ferment improves both the performance and feel of many personal care formulas.
- Emulsion stabilising – keeps oil and water phases blended so lotions stay smooth from the first pump to the last drop
- Hair fixing – forms an invisible flexible film that helps hair hold its shape while fighting frizz and humidity
- Humectant – attracts and binds moisture to the skin surface providing immediate hydration and a plumper look
- Skin conditioning – leaves a soft cushiony finish that reduces the tight or sticky feel sometimes left by other thickeners
- Viscosity controlling – thickens watery formulas into luxurious gels or creams and prevents them from running or separating in the package
Who Can Use Crosslinked Bacillus/Glucose/Sodium Glutamate Ferment
This ferment is gentle enough for most skin types, including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Its water-binding nature offers lightweight hydration without clogging pores or leaving a heavy film, making it a good fit for acne-prone or easily congested complexions. There are no known concerns for people with conditions such as rosacea or eczema, though individual tolerance can vary.
The ingredient is produced from plant-derived glucose and a naturally occurring amino acid salt using a bacterium that is removed at the end of processing. No animal matter is involved, so it is considered suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals generally can use products containing Crosslinked Bacillus/Glucose/Sodium Glutamate Ferment. Current safety data do not point to hormonal activity or systemic absorption risks. That said, this information is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all skincare choices with a healthcare provider.
The ferment does not increase photosensitivity and has no known interactions with sun exposure, acids or retinoids. It is odorless and colorless, so it rarely affects fragrance or dye sensitivities.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Crosslinked Bacillus/Glucose/Sodium Glutamate Ferment differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated correctly.
- Mild redness or warmth at the application site
- Itching or transient stinging in very sensitive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals reactive to fermented materials
- Build-up on hair shafts if overused in leave-in styling products
If any irritation, rash or discomfort occurs the product should be rinsed off and use stopped. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1 (very low)
Crosslinked Bacillus/Glucose/Sodium Glutamate Ferment is a large water loving polymer that forms a weightless film and rinses away cleanly, so it has almost no tendency to block pores. It contains no oils or waxes and is used at low percentages, giving it a non-comedogenic profile in finished products.
Because of this it is generally considered suitable for those who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Its inability to feed acne-causing bacteria and its quick, clean rinse further reduce any clogging risk.
Summary
Fermented from glucose and sodium glutamate then crosslinked for strength, this biopolymer attracts moisture, cushions skin, keeps emulsions from splitting, controls viscosity and gives flexible hold to hair. It does all of that while feeling silky and lightweight.
The ingredient is not yet a household name like hyaluronic acid but its plant based origin, soft touch and multitasking nature are making it more common in new serums, gels and styling creams.
Safety data show a very low chance of irritation or pore clogging, making it a friendly option for most skin and hair types. Still, it is smart to patch test any new product to be sure it plays well with your unique skin.