Lactobacillus/Centella Asiatica Extract Ferment Extract: 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/Centella Asiatica Extract Ferment Extract?

Lactobacillus/Centella Asiatica Extract Ferment Extract is created by taking a botanical extract of Centella asiatica, a herb long valued in traditional skin care, and letting the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus ferment it. During fermentation Lactobacillus breaks down plant compounds into smaller molecules, often producing additional peptides, amino acids and organic acids that are friendly to skin. This bio-conversion step boosts the extract’s stability and enhances the way skin can absorb its nutrients.

The idea of fermenting plant materials for beauty gained traction in Korean skin care research during the early 2000s, when labs found that probiotics could make herbal extracts gentler yet more potent. Centella asiatica was a natural candidate because it is rich in madecassoside, asiaticoside and other triterpenes that help calm and fortify skin. By pairing it with Lactobacillus scientists created a new ingredient that delivers Centella benefits in a lighter more bioavailable form.

Production starts with harvesting Centella leaves, extracting them in water or a mild solvent, then inoculating the solution with a selected Lactobacillus strain under controlled warmth and pH. After several days the mixture is filtered and further refined to remove bacterial residues, yielding a clear to pale amber liquid that blends easily into water-based formulas.

You will most often see Lactobacillus/Centella Asiatica Extract Ferment Extract in soothing toners, lightweight moisturizers, hydrating serums, post-exfoliation masks and anti-aging treatments that focus on barrier repair and redness reduction. Because it is water soluble it fits well in gel creams and essence textures where a non-greasy finish is desired.

Lactobacillus/Centella Asiatica Extract Ferment Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is prized for its main role in skin conditioning which means it helps improve the overall feel and appearance of skin. By delivering fermented Centella compounds alongside probiotic metabolites it supports a healthy moisture barrier, softens rough patches, calms visible redness and leaves skin smoother and more supple.

Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Centella Asiatica Extract Ferment Extract

Because it is lightweight, water soluble and soothing this ferment suits most skin types: oily, dry, combination, normal and especially sensitive or redness-prone skin. Its low likelihood of clogging pores also makes it a friendly choice for acne-prone users. Those with very compromised or broken skin should proceed carefully and seek professional guidance before applying any new product.

The ingredient comes from a plant extract and a probiotic bacterium so no animal-derived substances are involved, making it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished formula has not been tested on animals.

Current research shows no pregnancy-specific concerns for topical use. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should show the full ingredient list of a product to their doctor before using it.

Lactobacillus/Centella Asiatica Extract Ferment Extract does not increase photosensitivity. Regular daytime sunscreen is still recommended as part of good skin care practice.

The ferment is compatible with most common actives such as niacinamide, panthenol and hyaluronic acid but very strong acids or bases may affect its stability so layering with extreme pH products is best done with care.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Lactobacillus/Centella Asiatica Extract Ferment Extract differ from person to person. The points below list potential but uncommon side effects that could appear even when the ingredient is used correctly in a professionally formulated product. Most users will not experience these issues.

  • Mild redness or stinging on first application, especially on highly reactive skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to Centella asiatica or fermentation by-products
  • Rare acne-like bumps if the overall formula includes heavy occlusives that trap oil
  • Extra irritation when layered immediately after very low pH exfoliating acids
  • Risk of microbial contamination if the product is stored improperly leading to possible skin infection

If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)

Lactobacillus/Centella Asiatica Extract Ferment Extract is water based, contains no heavy oils or waxes and is used at low concentrations, so it does not block pores on its own. Its fermented molecules are small and light, allowing them to absorb without leaving residue that might trap sebum. This makes the ingredient broadly suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.

Keep in mind that the overall pore-clogging potential of any product depends on the full formula. If the ferment is paired with thick occlusives or rich butters the end product could still feel heavy on very oily skin.

Summary

Lactobacillus/Centella Asiatica Extract Ferment Extract is a skin-conditioning agent that delivers Centella’s calming triterpenes along with probiotic-derived peptides and organic acids. Together these compounds help reinforce the moisture barrier, soothe redness, soften rough texture and leave skin more resilient.

The ferment enjoys strong popularity in Korean and indie skin care where gentle multi-taskers are prized, though it is still making its way into mainstream Western lines.

Current research and user reports point to a high level of safety with very low irritation or comedogenic risk. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a product before full-face use, especially if your skin is sensitive.

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