What Is Grifola Frondosa /Licorice Root Extract Ferment Filtrate?
Grifola Frondosa /Licorice Root Extract Ferment Filtrate is a skin care ingredient made by fermenting licorice root extract with the maitake mushroom, Grifola frondosa. Licorice root is known for its soothing and brightening qualities while maitake is valued for its rich blend of sugars, amino acids and antioxidants. When the mushroom digests the plant extract during fermentation it breaks large molecules into smaller ones that are easier for skin to take in and it also creates new skin loving compounds such as peptides and extra antioxidants.
The idea of fermenting plant extracts took off in East Asian beauty labs in the early 2000s because it made traditional herbal ingredients feel lighter on the skin and absorb more quickly. This particular filtrate appeared soon after as brands looked for gentler ways to deliver the well loved benefits of licorice without the stickiness often linked with raw extracts. Today cosmetic chemists filter the finished brew to remove the mushroom cells then standardize the liquid so every batch has a consistent level of active compounds.
You will mostly see Grifola Frondosa /Licorice Root Extract Ferment Filtrate in hydrating serums, lightweight moisturizers, sheet masks, anti aging creams and brightening spot treatments. Its multitasking nature lets formulators add both moisture and antioxidant defense without loading a product with many separate ingredients.
Grifola Frondosa /Licorice Root Extract Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ferment brings several helpful roles to a skin care formula.
- Antioxidant: Helps neutralize free radicals produced by UV light and pollution which can slow the look of premature aging and keep skin tone more even
- Humectant: Draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface giving an immediate plumping effect and a smoother feel
- Skin Conditioning: Softens and soothes rough or stressed areas supporting a comfortable barrier and making skin appear healthier over time
Who Can Use Grifola Frondosa /Licorice Root Extract Ferment Filtrate
This ferment works well for almost every skin type including dry, normal, combination and oily. Its light texture and water binding ability make it helpful for dehydrated skin while the soothing licorice by-products can calm redness that often troubles sensitive complexions. The ingredient is not known to clog pores so acne-prone users usually tolerate it without issue. The only group that may need extra care is anyone with a known mushroom or licorice allergy since trace proteins from either source could remain in the filtrate.
The filtrate is made by fermenting plant material with fungi so it contains no animal derived substances. That makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished product formula and manufacturing process are also free of animal inputs.
Current research shows no specific risk linked to topical use of this ferment during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask their healthcare provider before adding new skincare to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity. Standard daytime sun protection is still advised since antioxidants work best alongside sunscreen but there is no extra need to avoid sunlight because of this ferment.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Grifola Frondosa /Licorice Root Extract Ferment Filtrate differ from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes and should be rare when the ingredient is included at appropriate levels in a well-formulated product.
- Mild itching or redness
- Stinging sensation on very sensitive or broken skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people allergic to mushrooms or licorice root
- Eye irritation if product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
This filtrate is largely water based and contains lightweight humectants plus antioxidant molecules formed during fermentation, none of which are known to clog pores. A score of 1 reflects the very low chance of blocking follicles while acknowledging that any ingredient can trigger breakouts in a small number of highly reactive users.
In practical terms it is considered suitable for skin that is prone to acne or congestion.
The final product’s overall comedogenicity still depends on the full formula so users should look at the whole ingredient list rather than this single component.
Summary
Grifola Frondosa /Licorice Root Extract Ferment Filtrate acts as an antioxidant, humectant and skin conditioning agent. Fermentation breaks down licorice root compounds and maitake polysaccharides into smaller molecules that neutralize free radicals, pull moisture to the skin surface and smooth rough patches for a healthier barrier.
While not yet a household name it has been gaining quiet popularity in Asian inspired serums and masks because it lets formulators deliver licorice benefits in a lighter faster absorbing format.
The ingredient is generally regarded as safe for topical use with low irritation and comedogenic risk reported. As with any new skincare step, performing a patch test on a small area first is a smart precaution.