What Is Fomitella Fraxinea/Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Extract Ferment Filtrate?
Fomitella Fraxinea/Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Extract Ferment Filtrate comes from Amaranthus hypochondriacus, a resilient pseudocereal often called amaranth, that is fermented with the mushroom Fomitella fraxinea. During fermentation the fungus breaks down the plant material, releasing skin-friendly molecules such as amino acids, short-chain peptides, polysaccharides, vitamins and antioxidants. This bio-conversion makes the nutrients smaller and more available to skin.
Fermented botanicals gained popularity in Asian skincare through the early 2000s when beauty brands looked to traditional fermentation to boost potency without harsh processing. As consumer interest in gentle yet effective actives grew, formulators began adding this filtrate to modern products for its softening and conditioning properties.
Production starts with extracting the whole amaranth plant in water or a mild solvent. The extract is inoculated with Fomitella fraxinea under controlled temperature and pH until fermentation is complete. The mixture is then filtered to remove solids and sterilized to yield a clear liquid packed with the newly formed micro-nutrients.
You are most likely to spot this ingredient in hydrating toners, essences, sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers, anti aging serums and after-sun soothing gels where it lends a silky feel and a dose of plant-based nourishment.
Fomitella Fraxinea/Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Extract Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this fermented filtrate offers two key functions that translate into noticeable skin benefits:
- Skin conditioning: The blend of amino acids, sugars and vitamins supports the skin barrier, helping it stay smooth, supple and balanced. Over time it can improve overall texture and give a healthier-looking glow.
- Emollient: The lightweight polysaccharides form a soft film on the surface that traps moisture, reduces transepidermal water loss and leaves skin feeling silky without heaviness or grease.
Who Can Use Fomitella Fraxinea/Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Extract Ferment Filtrate
This fermented filtrate is gentle and lightweight which makes it a good fit for most skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitized skin. It delivers water-binding sugars without heavy oils so it rarely clogs pores, a plus for those who are acne-prone. People with a known allergy to mushrooms, amaranth or other grains should be cautious since trace proteins could trigger a reaction.
The ingredient is produced from a plant and a fungus so it contains no animal-derived material. For this reason products that list it as the only active are typically suitable for vegans and vegetarians, provided the rest of the formula also meets their standards.
No data links this filtrate to hormonal disruption or systemic absorption so it is generally considered low risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should have a doctor review their skincare routine to be safe.
The filtrate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used both morning and night without increasing the need for sun protection beyond the usual daily SPF recommendation.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Fomitella Fraxinea/Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Extract Ferment Filtrate can vary. The effects listed below are uncommon and most users will not notice any problems when the ingredient is formulated and used properly.
- Transient redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Mild itching due to allergy to mushroom or grain proteins
- Rare cases of contact dermatitis marked by rash or swelling
- Possible flare of fungal folliculitis in people already prone to it
- Increased absorption of other actives in the same product which might heighten their irritation potential
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1 (very low risk)
This filtrate is mostly water, small peptides and polysaccharides with virtually no heavy lipids or waxes that could clog pores. The lightweight film it leaves on skin is breathable and rinses away easily. Because the fungi-derived components are similar to those found in many non-comedogenic ferments, breakouts are unlikely. People who struggle with fungal acne should note that any ferment can, in rare cases, aggravate their condition, but reports are scarce for this specific ingredient.
Overall it is considered suitable for acne-prone or congestion-prone skin.
Summary
Fomitella Fraxinea/Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Extract Ferment Filtrate works mainly as a skin-conditioning emollient. Fermentation breaks the amaranth plant down into moisture-binding sugars, amino acids and antioxidants that smooth rough patches, reinforce the barrier and leave a soft, silky finish. Its light texture means it layers well with other hydrators and rarely interferes with active treatments.
While not a headline ingredient like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, it has been gaining quiet popularity in K-beauty style toners, essences and calming gels thanks to its gentle profile and vegan origin.
Current data shows it is low risk for irritation, non-comedogenic and pregnancy safe for most users. As with any new skincare ingredient, do a simple patch test before full-face use to make sure your skin agrees with it.