Lactobacillus/Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Ferment 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/Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Ferment Filtrate?

Lactobacillus/Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Ferment Filtrate is a fermented extract made from kale leaves, the same leafy green most people know from salads and smoothies. To create it, cosmetic chemists steep kale leaves in a nutrient solution and add friendly Lactobacillus bacteria. Over several days the bacteria break down the plant material, releasing skin-loving sugars, amino acids and antioxidants. The liquid is then filtered to remove solids, leaving a clear, lightweight filtrate that is packed with moisture-binding molecules.

Fermented plant extracts started gaining attention in Korean beauty labs about a decade ago when formulators noticed that fermentation could boost the availability of beneficial compounds while making them gentler on skin. Kale quickly became a favorite thanks to its natural content of vitamins A, C and K plus minerals like calcium and magnesium. Today the filtrate appears in hydrating toners, calming serums, sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers and anti-aging lotions where a plumping, soothing effect is desired.

Lactobacillus/Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient brings several helpful functions to a formula:

  • Humectant: Attracts water from the environment and draws it into the upper layers of skin helping to keep the complexion supple and fresh for longer
  • Skin conditioning: Softens and smooths the skin surface improving overall feel and appearance while supporting a healthy moisture barrier
  • Emollient: Adds a light layer of lubrication that reduces roughness and gives skin a silky finish without a greasy after-feel

Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is lightweight non greasy and water loving so it tends to suit almost every skin type. Dry skin benefits from its humectant pull while oily and combination skin appreciate the soft hydrated feel without extra oil. Sensitive skin often tolerates it well because the fermentation process breaks down potential irritants, though anyone with a known allergy to kale or cruciferous vegetables should proceed with caution.

The ingredient is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. It comes from plant leaves and a non animal bacterial culture so no animal derived material is introduced at any point in the process.

No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women regarding topical use of this filtrate. It is not absorbed into the bloodstream in meaningful amounts and carries no known hormonal activity. 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.

Lactobacillus/Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Ferment Filtrate does not increase photosensitivity so it can be used morning or night without raising the risk of sunburn. Standard daytime sunscreen habits should still be followed.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical ingredients differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possibilities not probabilities. When the ferment filtrate is properly formulated most users enjoy it without any issues.

  • Mild redness or stinging on very sensitive or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to kale or other cruciferous plants
  • Temporary flushing if layered with very strong active acids or retinoids
  • Rare breakouts in highly acne prone skin if the overall formula is too occlusive

If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5. Lactobacillus/Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Ferment Filtrate is a watery extract with virtually no residual oils or heavy waxes so it does not clog pores. Its molecules are small and water binding rather than oily which lets it sink in quickly without forming a film that could trap dead skin cells.

Because of this low rating the ingredient is generally considered safe for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

Keep in mind that the overall comedogenicity of a finished product also depends on the other ingredients in the formula. A gel serum with this ferment will feel different from a rich cream that pairs it with heavy plant butters.

Summary

Lactobacillus/Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Ferment Filtrate acts as a humectant, skin conditioner and light emollient. It draws water into the upper skin layers thanks to naturally occurring sugars and amino acids produced during fermentation, smooths texture by helping the moisture barrier stay intact and leaves a silky surface feel without greasiness.

The ferment took off in Korean beauty circles and is now popping up in more global formulas, though it is still a niche pick compared with classics like aloe or hyaluronic acid. Brands that focus on ferment technology or green superfood themes tend to use it most.

Overall safety is high. It is plant based, vegan friendly and has no known hormonal activity. Adverse reactions are uncommon and usually limited to those with a specific kale allergy. As with any new skincare product it is smart to do a quick patch test before diving into full-face use just to be cautious.

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