What Is Lactobacillus/Sasa Quelpaertensis Leaf/Stem Extract Ferment Filtrate?
Lactobacillus/Sasa Quelpaertensis Leaf/Stem Extract Ferment Filtrate is a fermented botanical ingredient that starts with Sasa quelpaertensis, a hardy bamboo grass native to Jeju Island in South Korea. The leaves and stems are rich in natural sugars, minerals and polyphenols that help protect the plant from harsh coastal winds and strong sun. To create the filtrate, producers first make a water or water-glycol extract of the chopped leaves and stems. This extract is then inoculated with a strain of Lactobacillus, a friendly microorganism best known from yogurt making. Over several days the bacteria break down larger plant compounds into smaller, more skin-friendly molecules while releasing beneficial peptides and post-biotic metabolites. After fermentation, the mixture is carefully filtered to remove solids and microbe residue, leaving a clear liquid packed with the transformed plant actives.
The filtrate has been gaining traction since the early 2010s when K-beauty brands began exploring fermented botanicals for their mild yet noticeable skin benefits. Today it appears in lightweight essences, hydrating toners, leave-on masks, soothing serums and many daily moisturizers that aim to calm, soften and replenish the skin barrier.
Lactobacillus/Sasa Quelpaertensis Leaf/Stem Extract Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued primarily for its skin conditioning ability, meaning it helps keep skin feeling smooth, supple and well balanced. The fermentation step boosts the bioavailability of the bamboo grass antioxidants, adds moisturizing amino acids and creates a slightly acidic pH that supports the skin’s natural acid mantle. In formulas it can improve overall hydration, soothe temporary redness and enhance the velvety finish consumers associate with well-conditioned skin.
Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Sasa Quelpaertensis Leaf/Stem Extract Ferment Filtrate
This fermented bamboo grass filtrate is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, oily and combination skin. Its lightweight texture and low oil content mean it rarely feels heavy or greasy which makes it a welcome addition for acne prone or sensitive complexions. Only those with a known allergy to bamboo extracts or fermented plant ingredients may need to avoid it because they could experience irritation.
The ingredient is suitable for vegans and vegetarians because both the plant material and the fermenting Lactobacillus culture are non animal derived. No animal by-products are introduced during production.
The filtrate is not known to interfere with pregnancy or lactation when used topically. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should review any skincare product with their physician to be on the safe side.
It does not increase sensitivity to sunlight so routine use will not make skin more prone to sunburn. As with any cosmetic ingredient, follow the product’s usage instructions and store it away from direct heat and light to maintain efficacy.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects or reactions to topical Lactobacillus/Sasa Quelpaertensis Leaf/Stem Extract Ferment Filtrate can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues though most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is correctly formulated and preserved.
- Transient redness or mild stinging in very sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to bamboo or plant ferments
- Breakouts or clogged pores in rare cases of extremely reactive acne prone skin
- Irritation if combined with high levels of exfoliating acids or retinoids in the same routine
- Spoilage-related irritation if the finished product becomes contaminated due to improper storage
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5. This filtrate is water based with virtually no residual lipids or heavy waxes that could block pores. Its small-molecule humectants and skin friendly peptides absorb quickly and do not sit on the surface, so it is very unlikely to encourage blackheads or pimples. Suitable for acne prone and breakout prone skin. Because it is typically used at low concentrations within well-preserved formulas, the risk of microbial overgrowth that could aggravate blemishes is minimal.
Summary
Lactobacillus/Sasa Quelpaertensis Leaf/Stem Extract Ferment Filtrate conditions skin by boosting hydration, soothing mild irritation and supporting the natural acid mantle. Fermentation unlocks bamboo grass antioxidants, adds moisturizing amino acids and lowers pH to a skin friendly level, creating a lightweight ingredient that leaves the complexion soft and balanced.
Once a niche K-beauty novelty, it now appears in an expanding range of toners, essences and creams as brands look for gentle plant ferments with a wellness story. While it is not as ubiquitous as hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, its popularity is steadily rising thanks to the growing interest in microbiome friendly skincare.
Overall safety is high with few reported adverse effects. As with any new cosmetic product, patch test on a small area first to confirm personal compatibility.