What Is Lactobacillus/Perilla Frutescens Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate?
Lactobacillus/Perilla Frutescens Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate is a skin care ingredient made by fermenting shiso leaves (from the Perilla frutescens plant) with Lactobacillus bacteria and then filtering the resulting liquid. Shiso leaves are rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, while the Lactobacillus fermentation step can create extra peptides and organic acids that help preserve the extract and boost its skin loving properties.
Shiso has been used for centuries in East Asian cooking and folk remedies. As the beauty world moved toward “green” and “clean” formulas, researchers explored traditional botanicals for modern skin care. Fermentation became popular because it can make plant compounds more bio-available and gentle. This particular ferment started appearing in Korean and Japanese cosmetics in the 2010s and has since spread to global brands that focus on natural actives.
The process is straightforward: harvested shiso leaves are cleaned, crushed and mixed with a Lactobacillus culture in controlled tanks. Over several days the bacteria break down large plant molecules into smaller fragments. After fermentation the mixture is filtered to remove solids and microbes, leaving a clear watery filtrate that carries the beneficial compounds.
Formulators like this ingredient for light, water-based products. You will often see it in hydrating toners, soothing sheet masks, daily moisturizers, essence-style boosters, anti-aging serums and blemish prone skin treatments where gentle defense against irritation is needed.
Lactobacillus/Perilla Frutescens Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ferment brings two main technical functions that translate into visible skin benefits.
- Antimicrobial – helps keep the product itself fresher for longer and gives skin a mild defense against breakout-causing surface bacteria which can support clearer looking skin
- Antioxidant – supplies polyphenols that neutralize free radicals from UV light and pollution supporting a brighter more even complexion over time and helping ward off early signs of aging such as fine lines and dullness
Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Perilla Frutescens Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate
This ferment is lightweight and water based which makes it well suited to oily, combination, normal and even dry skin when paired with richer moisturizers. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it because the fermentation process reduces harsh plant compounds, but anyone extremely reactive to botanical extracts should approach cautiously.
Because the ingredient is produced from plant leaves and bacteria with no animal derivatives it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly.
Current research shows no specific hormonal or systemic effects so products containing this extract are usually viewed as safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should have their healthcare provider review any skincare products before use just to be safe.
The filtrate does not increase photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn, although daily sunscreen is still recommended for healthy aging.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Lactobacillus/Perilla Frutescens Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate can vary from person to person. The points below outline possible but uncommon reactions assuming the product has been properly formulated.
- Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to perilla or other members of the mint family
- Rare breakout flare in acne prone users if combined with heavy occlusives that trap bacteria
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If you notice any discomfort, stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5. This filtrate is a thin water based liquid with no heavy oils or waxes that could clog pores. The fermentation process also breaks down larger plant molecules into lighter fragments that rinse away easily, so buildup inside pores is unlikely. For these reasons it is generally considered non-comedogenic and is suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
Like any water soluble botanical, the final formula it sits in matters. If the product also contains rich oils or silicones, the overall pore-clogging risk will depend on those ingredients rather than the ferment itself.
Summary
Lactobacillus/Perilla Frutescens Leaf Ferment Extract Filtrate offers two main benefits: it helps defend skin against unwanted surface bacteria thanks to natural antimicrobial compounds and it supplies antioxidants that fight free radicals for a brighter calmer complexion. Fermentation makes the shiso leaf nutrients smaller and more skin friendly so they can do their job without irritation.
While not as famous as green tea or vitamin C this ferment has built a steady following in Korean and Japanese skincare and is now popping up in global toners, serums and sheet masks that aim for a gentle yet effective plant based edge.
Current data shows it is safe for most skin types including sensitive skin with very low risk of clogging pores or causing systemic effects. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to carry out a quick patch test whenever you try a new product that contains this or any other active ingredient.