Lactobacillus/Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract Ferment: 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: July 1, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Lactobacillus/Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract Ferment?

Lactobacillus/Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract Ferment is created by taking the juice of Aloe arborescens leaves and letting the friendly bacterium Lactobacillus ferment it. Aloe arborescens is a hardy cousin of the more familiar Aloe vera and its leaves are packed with sugars, amino acids and minerals. During fermentation Lactobacillus breaks down large plant molecules into smaller parts and also produces helpful compounds like lactic acid and peptides. The result is a milder, more bio-available ingredient that skin can recognize and use more easily.

The idea of fermenting plant extracts gained popularity in Korean beauty labs in the early 2000s, when scientists noticed that traditional fermented foods left skin looking hydrated and calm. This sparked research into applying the same methods to skincare ingredients. Today companies choose Lactobacillus because it is safe, well studied and leaves behind skin-loving by-products.

To make the ferment, harvested leaves are washed, crushed and soaked in water or a gentle solvent to pull out the juice. The liquid is filtered, then a carefully measured dose of Lactobacillus culture is added. The mixture sits in temperature-controlled tanks for several days until pH, smell and microbial counts show the process is complete. The ferment is then filtered again and preserved so it stays stable when blended into creams or serums.

You will most often spot Lactobacillus/Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract Ferment in hydrating sheet masks, soothing gels, lightweight moisturizers, after-sun lotions and anti-aging essences that promise a dewy finish. Formulators like it because it fits well in water based products and pairs nicely with other plant extracts, ceramides and low level acids.

Lactobacillus/Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract Ferment’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This fermented extract serves mainly as a humectant, meaning it attracts water to the skin. By drawing moisture from the air or deeper skin layers into the surface, it helps keep the outer barrier plump and flexible, which can soften fine lines and reduce flakiness. Because fermentation lowers the extract’s pH slightly and adds soothing by-products, it can also leave a refreshed feel without making the skin greasy.

Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract Ferment?

This fermented extract works for nearly every skin type. Its humectant nature helps dry or mature skin hold water, yet it absorbs quickly so it will not weigh down oily or acne prone skin. Sensitive skin usually tolerates the ingredient well thanks to the soothing by-products created during fermentation, though anyone with a confirmed allergy to aloe species should take care.

The material is sourced from plants and a food-grade probiotic bacterium, with no animal derivatives, so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

The ferment is not known to interfere with pregnancy or breastfeeding when used topically in normal cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new skincare products just to be safe.

It does not make skin more reactive to sunlight, so it is not classed as photosensitising. Regular daytime sunscreen use is still recommended for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from person to person. The effects below are possible but unlikely for most users when the ferment is properly formulated and preserved.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis – itching, redness or small bumps in those sensitive to aloe components
  • Mild stinging or irritation – usually short-lived and more common on very compromised skin barriers
  • Redness or flushing – can occur if the product contains other actives that lower pH even further
  • Breakouts – rare but possible if the finished formula includes comedogenic oils or if the user’s skin does not tolerate added humectants
  • Contamination risk – if manufacturing hygiene is poor any ferment can become a breeding ground for microbes that irritate skin

If discomfort, rash or any other unexpected reaction appears stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5. Lactobacillus/Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract Ferment is water based, contains no heavy oils or waxes and is readily absorbed without leaving residue that can clog pores. Its small molecular components from fermentation rinse cleanly away during normal cleansing and do not sit inside follicles, so the chance of blockage is extremely low. This makes it generally suitable for skin that is prone to acne or frequent breakouts. One point to remember is that the finished product formula matters; if the ferment is blended with occlusive butters or rich silicones the overall product could still trigger congestion even though the ferment itself is non comedogenic.

Summary

Lactobacillus/Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract Ferment acts mainly as a humectant, attracting and holding water on the skin’s surface which boosts softness and flexibility. Fermentation breaks the aloe leaf’s large sugars and proteins into smaller fragments and adds lactic acid and peptides, making the extract easier for skin to use and adding a gentle soothing effect.

The ingredient enjoys moderate popularity, especially in Korean inspired hydrating essences and sheet masks, but it remains a niche choice compared with classic hydrators like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. Brands that focus on fermented or probiotic themes feature it more prominently.

Topical safety is considered high; it is non irritating for most users, vegan friendly and not linked to photosensitivity or hormonal concerns. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to perform a quick patch test the first time you try a product containing this ferment so you can spot any unexpected sensitivity early.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search