What Is Galactomyces/Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice Ferment Filtrate?
Galactomyces/Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice Ferment Filtrate is a liquid obtained by fermenting the sap of the Japanese white birch tree with a strain of yeast called Galactomyces. The birch sap brings natural sugars, minerals and amino acids while the yeast releases additional vitamins, peptides and antioxidants during fermentation. The result is a nutrient rich fluid that spreads easily on skin.
The story of this ingredient starts with sake brewers in Japan who noticed that their hands stayed smooth after hours of handling fermented mash. Beauty chemists later combined that same Galactomyces yeast with birch sap, a folk remedy for dry skin in parts of Asia, to create a ferment that offers both hydration and skin softening benefits.
To produce it, fresh birch sap is collected at the start of spring, filtered to remove debris then inoculated with Galactomyces under clean lab conditions. The mixture ferments for several days at a steady temperature. After fermentation it is carefully filtered to remove any solid matter, leaving a clear lightweight liquid ready for cosmetic use.
You will most often find this ferment filtrate in hydrating essences, lightweight serums, sheet masks, toners, lotions and sometimes in all in one creams that aim to boost moisture and support a healthy skin barrier.
Galactomyces/Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Its main role in skincare is as an emollient. As an emollient it helps fill in tiny gaps on the skin surface so it feels smoother and softer, reduces rough patches and supports the skin’s moisture barrier which can lead to better hydration over time.
Who Can Use Galactomyces/Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice Ferment Filtrate
This ferment filtrate is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Its lightweight texture and emollient action make it helpful for skin that feels rough or dehydrated, yet it does not add a greasy film so oily skin usually tolerates it well. Sensitive skin can also benefit thanks to the gentle nature of birch sap but anyone with a known yeast allergy should approach with caution because the ingredient comes from Galactomyces fermentation.
The raw materials are plant derived and the fermenting yeast is grown in a lab so the ingredient is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly with no animal by-products involved.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women can typically use products containing this filtrate as it has no known links to hormonal disruption or systemic absorption. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should ask a healthcare professional before starting a new skincare product just to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to the sun and has no special storage or daytime restrictions. It layers well with most actives and moisturizers so it can fit into both morning and evening routines without extra steps.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical use of Galactomyces/Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice Ferment Filtrate can vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues but they are uncommon when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as directed.
- Redness or mild stinging in very sensitive skin especially on first use
- Itching or rash in individuals allergic to yeast or birch-related compounds
- Breakouts if someone is prone to fungal acne and reacts to ferment derived ingredients
- Contact dermatitis if the product also contains other irritants and the skin barrier is already compromised
If any irritation or unusual reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. This filtrate is a thin water-like liquid with virtually no heavy oils or waxes that could clog pores. Its main job is to smooth and hydrate the surface rather than form an occlusive film, so it carries only a minimal risk of trapping sebum inside follicles. That makes it generally acceptable even for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, though individuals who are highly reactive to fermented ingredients should monitor their skin’s response. Because it is yeast derived some people prone to fungal acne may prefer caution if they know they are sensitive to ferment extracts.
Summary
Galactomyces/Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice Ferment Filtrate acts primarily as an emollient that fills tiny gaps between skin cells so the surface feels softer and retains moisture better. Fermentation enriches the birch sap with vitamins, amino acids and antioxidants that help support a healthy barrier and improve overall skin texture.
The ingredient enjoys steady popularity in Korean and Japanese skincare where lightweight hydrating essences are common, while still being a bit of a hidden gem in Western routines. Its safety profile is favorable with low comedogenicity and rare irritation reports, which means most people can use it without issue. As with any new cosmetic, patch testing a small area first is a smart way to ensure personal compatibility.