What Is Lactobacillus/Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Extract Ferment Filtrate?
Lactobacillus/Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Extract Ferment Filtrate begins with the peel of the sweet orange, Citrus aurantium dulcis. The peel is rich in natural sugars, small amounts of fruit acids and aromatic compounds that give oranges their familiar scent. To create the ingredient the peel extract is mixed with the friendly bacterium Lactobacillus, the same genus often found in yogurt. During a controlled fermentation the bacteria break down large plant molecules into smaller ones and produce helpful by-products like peptides and mild organic acids. Once the process is complete the mixture is filtered to remove any solid material leaving behind a clear fluid known as the ferment filtrate.
Fermentation has long been used in food and drink but only in recent decades have cosmetic chemists applied it to plant extracts. They found that fermentation can make actives more skin-friendly and stable. This particular ferment first gained attention in Korean skin care, then spread to Western brands looking for gentle naturally derived ingredients.
Lactobacillus/Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Extract Ferment Filtrate is mainly added to leave-on products where long contact time lets skin benefit from its conditioning effect. You will often see it in hydrating serums, light lotions, sheet masks, soothing after-sun gels and anti-aging treatments that aim to boost radiance without irritation.
Lactobacillus/Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Extract Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ferment is prized for one key function in skin care formulations.
Skin conditioning: the filtrate helps skin feel softer, smoother and better hydrated. The smaller molecules produced during fermentation can penetrate more easily than raw plant material, supporting the skin’s natural barrier and improving its overall look and feel.
Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Extract Ferment Filtrate
The filtrate is considered gentle and is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive. Its mild pH and low oil content mean it rarely clogs pores or provokes redness. Extremely reactive or compromised skin may still prefer a patch of plain moisturiser first, simply because any new ingredient can be a wildcard on a fragile barrier.
The ferment is plant derived and the processing does not involve animal by-products, so it meets vegan and vegetarian standards.
Current data shows no issues for topical use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Nevertheless this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should clear every new skincare product with a qualified doctor.
The ingredient is not known to increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Normal daytime sunscreen habits are still recommended for overall skin health.
Because the filtrate contains tiny amounts of naturally occurring fruit acids its pH can help other mildly acidic formulas, such as vitamin C serums, remain stable. It does not conflict with retinoids or niacinamide in typical concentrations.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical Lactobacillus/Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Extract Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The points below are only potential outcomes and are very unlikely for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated.
- Temporary tingling or mild stinging
- Redness or irritation on very sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to citrus components
- Breakouts if combined with heavy comedogenic oils in the same formula
- Cross-reaction with other fragrant citrus extracts leading to sensitisation
If you experience any persistent discomfort stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0. Lactobacillus/Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Extract Ferment Filtrate is a watery, oil-free liquid so it does not leave residues that block pores. The sugars, peptides and mild acids produced during fermentation are all highly soluble in water and readily rinse or absorb without forming an occlusive film. For that reason the ingredient is considered non-comedogenic and is suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
The only caveat is the finished formula. If the ferment filtrate sits in a product that also contains heavy butters or waxes the overall formula could still clog pores, but the ferment itself will not contribute to that effect.
Summary
Lactobacillus/Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Extract Ferment Filtrate is used mainly as a skin-conditioning agent that helps skin feel softer, smoother and better hydrated. Fermentation breaks large citrus peel compounds into smaller bioavailable molecules and adds probiotic-derived peptides and gentle acids. Together these components support the moisture barrier, improve texture and leave a subtle healthy glow.
The ingredient rose to prominence in Korean skin care, and while it is not as mainstream as hyaluronic acid or niacinamide it is steadily gaining fans in Western formulations that aim for a gentle, naturally derived profile.
Current safety data shows a very low risk of irritation, allergy or pore blockage when the ingredient is properly formulated. As with any new skin care product it is wise to perform a quick patch test before full-face use just to be on the safe side.