Lactobacillus/Ambrosia Trifida Ferment Extract Filtrate: 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
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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/Ambrosia Trifida Ferment Extract Filtrate?

Lactobacillus/Ambrosia Trifida Ferment Extract Filtrate is a plant based ingredient created by fermenting the entire Ambrosia trifida plant with the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus. After fermentation the resulting mixture is gently filtered, leaving behind a lightweight liquid rich in bioactive molecules such as peptides, amino acids, organic acids, antioxidants and moisture binding sugars. The fermentation step helps break down the plant material into smaller skin friendly compounds while also boosting its antioxidant profile.

Interest in fermented botanical ingredients began in Korean beauty labs looking for ways to make traditional herbs more effective and skin compatible. As the trend spread, formulators found that Ambrosia trifida offered a unique mix of calming and protective components once fermented, so it gradually appeared in modern skin care lines.

The process starts with ethically harvested Ambrosia trifida that is washed, pulverized and submerged in a nutrient solution with Lactobacillus. Controlled temperatures allow the microbes to work for several days, producing enzymes and metabolites. The mash is then pressed and filtered to remove solids, resulting in a clear filtrate ready for cosmetic use.

You will typically spot this ferment in hydrating toners, refreshing sheet masks, soothing serums, daily moisturizers, anti aging creams and after sun gels where it supports both hydration and defense against environmental stress.

Lactobacillus/Ambrosia Trifida Ferment Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

When added to skin care formulas this ferment offers several helpful actions:

  • Antioxidant – Supplies protective compounds that neutralize free radicals helping to guard skin from pollution and UV induced stress which can contribute to dullness and early signs of aging
  • Humectant – Attracts and binds water to the skin surface boosting immediate and long term hydration for a plumper smoother appearance
  • Skin Conditioning – Delivers nutrients and soothing phytochemicals that can improve overall skin feel, support barrier function and leave the complexion soft and comfortable

Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Ambrosia Trifida Ferment Extract Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is considered gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and mature skin. Its light texture and hydrating action make it especially helpful for dehydrated or stressed complexions while the soothing plant metabolites can calm sensitive skin. People with known allergies to ragweed or other members of the Ambrosia family should proceed with caution since the source plant belongs to that group.

The ingredient is completely plant derived and produced through bacterial fermentation with no animal by products so it meets vegan and vegetarian standards.

No data indicate that topical use poses a specific risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. That said this information is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show their doctor any skincare formula they plan to use just to be safe.

Lactobacillus/Ambrosia Trifida Ferment Extract Filtrate does not increase photosensitivity and can be worn during the day under sunscreen without special precautions. It layers well with most common actives such as niacinamide, vitamin C and peptides making it easy to fit into nearly any routine.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Individual responses to skincare ingredients can differ. The following list covers potential but uncommon side effects linked with topical Lactobacillus/Ambrosia Trifida Ferment Extract Filtrate when used in properly formulated products. Most people will not experience these issues.

  • Allergic reaction in those sensitive to ragweed or related plants resulting in redness, itching and swelling
  • Mild stinging or warmth on highly compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Temporary flushing or irritation if combined with strong actives at high concentrations
  • Rare clogging or breakout if the overall formula is too occlusive for very acne prone skin

If any persistent discomfort or worsening irritation occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

Lactobacillus/Ambrosia Trifida Ferment Extract Filtrate is a lightweight water-based liquid that contains mainly small peptides, sugars and antioxidants with virtually no heavy oils or waxes that could block pores. Because it is rapidly absorbed and leaves little residue its chance of trapping sebum or dead skin cells is minimal.

Suitability for acne-prone skin: very good, most breakout-prone users can apply it without worrying about new congestion.

Keep in mind that a finished product’s overall pore-clogging potential depends on every ingredient in the formula so pair this ferment with non-comedogenic moisturizers and sunscreens for best results.

Summary

Lactobacillus/Ambrosia Trifida Ferment Extract Filtrate serves three main jobs in skincare: it supplies antioxidants that help fend off free radical damage, acts as a humectant that pulls water into the surface layers for steady hydration and conditions skin with soothing plant metabolites that support a comfortable barrier. Fermentation breaks the Ambrosia trifida plant into smaller bioavailable compounds while Lactobacillus adds beneficial enzymes and acids, boosting the overall effectiveness of the filtrate.

Although still a niche ingredient outside K-beauty circles it is popping up more often in toners, serums and gel creams thanks to the current interest in fermented botanicals and microbiome-friendly formulas.

Safety data and user reports show it to be low risk for irritation or clogged pores, with the main caution being possible ragweed cross-reactivity in sensitive individuals. As with any new skincare product it is wise to do a quick patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the complete formula.

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