What Is Lactobacillus/Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract Ferment Filtrate?
Lactobacillus/Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract Ferment Filtrate is derived from marigold blossoms. The petals are first steeped to create a Calendula flower extract rich in flavonoids, carotenoids and soothing polysaccharides. This extract is then introduced to the friendly bacteria Lactobacillus, which ferments the plant material in a controlled setting. After the fermentation finishes, the mixture is filtered, leaving behind a light liquid packed with smaller, more skin-ready molecules plus skin-balancing postbiotics.
Fermentation has long been used in food and skincare to boost bioavailability. Brands began exploring fermented botanicals in the early 2010s when K-beauty trends highlighted their gentleness and potency. Calendula, loved for centuries for its calming feel on skin, proved an ideal partner for Lactobacillus. The resulting filtrate slips easily into water-based formulas, bringing both the plant’s classic soothing profile and the added benefits created during fermentation.
You will most often spot this ingredient in hydrating essences, daily moisturizers, calming masks, after-sun gels, anti-aging serums and leave-on treatments aimed at strengthening the skin barrier.
Lactobacillus/Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker contributes several helpful actions in skincare formulas
- Antioxidant: Fermentation can boost the level of antioxidant compounds, helping neutralize free radicals that speed up visible aging caused by pollution and UV exposure
- Skin conditioning: The filtrate supplies amino acids and sugars that draw in moisture, leaving skin feeling smooth, supple and less tight
- Emollient: A light layer forms on the surface, softening rough patches and improving overall texture without a heavy or greasy feel
Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract Ferment Filtrate
This fermented calendula filtrate is generally well tolerated by all major skin types. Dry and sensitive complexions appreciate its soothing and moisture-locking traits while oily and combination skin benefit from the lightweight texture that will not clog pores. Acne-prone users often find it calming during active breakouts. Only those with a known allergy to marigold family plants should steer clear, as cross-reactivity could occur.
The ingredient contains no animal-derived components and the Lactobacillus used for fermentation is grown on plant media, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
No data suggest that topical use poses a risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should review their full skincare routine with a qualified healthcare professional to be extra cautious.
Lactobacillus/Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract Ferment Filtrate does not increase photosensitivity, so it can be worn day or night without raising sunburn risk. It layers well with common actives like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and gentle retinoid alternatives, making it easy to slot into most routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Lactobacillus/Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract Ferment Filtrate can vary. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely for the typical user when the ingredient is formulated and used properly.
- Mild redness or flushing
- Tingling or transient stinging on very compromised skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people sensitive to calendula or other Asteraceae plants
- Rare breakout or congestion if combined with heavily occlusive products in oil-rich skin
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
This ferment filtrate is water based with no heavy oils or waxes so it does not leave a residue that can block pores. The small, skin-compatible molecules produced during fermentation are quickly absorbed and easily rinsed away, further reducing any clogging potential.
That makes it suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts.
Most formulas use the ingredient at low to moderate percentages alongside lightweight humectants which keeps the overall comedogenic load of the finished product very low.
Summary
Lactobacillus/Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract Ferment Filtrate acts as an antioxidant, skin conditioner and mild emollient. Fermentation breaks down calendula’s larger compounds into smaller pieces and creates postbiotics that mop up free radicals, attract water to the skin and smooth rough texture without heft.
While not as famous as green tea or hyaluronic acid the ingredient is gaining traction in gentle K-beauty-inspired formulas and is now turning up in Western serums, gels and creams aimed at sensitive or dehydrated skin.
Topical use is considered very safe with only rare allergy reports tied to marigold sensitivity. As with any new product a quick patch test is a smart habit to make sure your skin is happy before full-face use.