What Is Lactobacillus/Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate?
Lactobacillus/Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate is a skin care ingredient created when fresh leaves of Cymbopogon citratus, more commonly known as lemongrass, are fermented with the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus. During fermentation the bacteria break down plant sugars and fibers, releasing a mix of skin friendly compounds such as organic acids, peptides, antioxidants and trace minerals. Once fermentation is complete the mixture is filtered to remove solid matter, leaving a clear liquid filtrate that is easy to blend into cosmetic formulas.
The idea of using fermented plant extracts in beauty products comes from traditional practices in parts of Asia where people have long applied fermented rice water and herbal brews to skin and hair. As modern formulators looked for gentle yet effective alternatives to synthetic preservatives they found that Lactobacillus fermentation not only helps inhibit unwanted microbes but also boosts the bioavailability of plant nutrients. Lemongrass was chosen for its refreshing scent and natural citral content, giving the final filtrate an added aromatic and soothing touch.
Production starts with washing and shredding lemongrass leaves which are then steeped in water. A starter culture of Lactobacillus is added and the mixture is kept at a controlled warm temperature for several days. After fermentation the liquid is pressed, filtered and sometimes lightly pasteurized. The resulting ingredient is water soluble and stable, making it suitable for many types of products. You will most often see Lactobacillus/Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate in hydrating toners, sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers, soothing after sun gels, blemish care serums and natural deodorant sticks.
Lactobacillus/Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ferment filtrate carries out two main jobs in skin care formulas:
- Antimicrobial: The organic acids produced by Lactobacillus lower the pH of a product making it harder for harmful bacteria to grow. This helps keep the formula fresh for longer and can also support a balanced skin microbiome which may reduce the risk of breakouts and irritation.
- Humectant: The filtrate attracts and binds moisture to the skin surface. By drawing water into the outer layers it helps maintain softness, plumps up fine lines and gives a dewy finish without heaviness.
Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate
This ferment filtrate is generally friendly to all skin types. Dry or dehydrated skin benefits from its water-binding ability while oily and combination skin enjoy lightweight hydration that will not feel greasy. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well since the pH-lowering acids are mild and calming. The only group that might want to proceed with extra care is those with a known allergy to lemongrass or citrus oils because trace amounts of naturally occurring fragrance compounds can linger after fermentation.
The ingredient is plant-derived and the fermentation process relies on bacteria rather than animal products so it suits both vegans and vegetarians.
No research suggests any special risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when using this ingredient topically. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should discuss new skincare products with a doctor for personal guidance.
Lactobacillus/Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used morning or night without extra photo precautions. It also plays nicely with most other common skincare ingredients including acids, retinoids and peptides so layering is straightforward.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical ingredients vary from person to person. The points below outline possible side effects, but they are uncommon when the ferment filtrate is used at the concentrations normally found in finished products.
- Mild stinging or tingling especially on freshly exfoliated or very dry skin
- Redness or flushing in individuals sensitive to natural fragrance molecules such as citral and geraniol
- Contact dermatitis in rare cases of lemongrass allergy
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any discomfort, itching or persistent redness occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Lactobacillus/Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate is almost entirely water with small amounts of organic acids, peptides and sugars created during fermentation. It contains no heavy oils, waxes or fatty alcohols that could clog pores, so it earns the lowest possible comedogenic score.
Because it is non-comedogenic it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
Its lightweight nature also means it layers well under occlusive creams without adding extra pore-blocking load, making it a safe hydrating step in multi-step routines.
Summary
Lactobacillus/Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate serves two main purposes in skincare: it helps keep formulas and skin surface hostile to harmful microbes through the gentle pH-lowering action of lactobacillus-derived organic acids, and it pulls moisture into the outer skin layers acting as a humectant for soft, plumped-up skin.
While not yet a household name it is gaining traction in K-beauty inspired toners, masks and clean deodorants where brands look for mild natural preservatives and feather-light hydration.
Topically it is viewed as very safe with low irritation and no pore-clogging risk. As with any new ingredient a small patch test is a sensible step when trying a product that contains it, especially for anyone with fragrance sensitivities or a known lemongrass allergy.