What Is Lactobacillus/Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract Ferment Filtrate?
Lactobacillus/Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract Ferment Filtrate is a skin-friendly liquid that comes from fermenting the root of the Scutellaria baicalensis plant with the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus. The process breaks the root’s tough cell walls and turns its natural compounds into smaller, more active molecules. The filtrate you see on an ingredient list is the clear fluid that is separated from the solid parts once fermentation is complete.
The root is rich in flavonoids such as baicalin and baicalein, known for their strong antioxidant properties. Fermentation adds extra skin-loving substances produced by Lactobacillus, including lactic acid, amino acids and short peptides. Together these create a cocktail that supports skin health while being gentle enough for daily use.
Plant ferments gained popularity in Asian skincare about a decade ago when brands looked for ways to boost the potency of herbal extracts without using harsh chemicals. Scutellaria baicalensis, also called Baikal skullcap, stood out for its calming and anti-aging profile. By teaming it with Lactobacillus, formulators unlocked better absorption and stability, leading to its rise in serums and other leave-on products.
To make the ingredient, the dried root is ground and soaked to create an extract, which is then mixed with a culture of Lactobacillus under controlled temperature and pH. After several days of fermentation, the mixture is filtered to remove solids and sterilized to ensure safety. The final filtrate is water-soluble and easy to add to a wide range of formulas.
You will most often find Lactobacillus/Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract Ferment Filtrate in hydrating essences, soothing masks, anti-aging serums, lightweight moisturizers and brightening spot treatments. Its mild nature makes it suitable for both rinse-off and leave-on products aimed at boosting skin resilience and glow.
Lactobacillus/Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This fermented extract pulls double duty in skincare formulas by protecting the skin and improving its overall feel.
- Antioxidant: The flavonoids from the root combine with fermentation by-products to neutralize free radicals. This helps defend the skin against pollution and UV-related stress, which can slow the appearance of fine lines and uneven tone.
- Skin Conditioning: Lactic acid, peptides and sugars formed during fermentation support the skin’s moisture barrier. They leave the surface softer, smoother and better able to hold water, which translates into a healthy, supple look.
Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract Ferment Filtrate
This fermented root filtrate is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Dry, dehydrated or mature skin will appreciate its hydrating and antioxidant boost, while sensitive skin benefits from its calming profile. Oily and breakout-prone users can also use it because it is water based and lightweight so it will not add extra greasiness.
The ingredient is vegan and vegetarian friendly since it is made only from a plant extract and probiotic bacteria cultured on plant media, with no animal derivatives involved in production.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women are not expected to face special risks when using products containing this filtrate. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should clear every new skincare product with a qualified healthcare provider just to be safe.
Lactobacillus/Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract Ferment Filtrate does not increase photosensitivity so it can be used morning or night. It also layers well with most common actives including vitamin C, niacinamide and retinoids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Lactobacillus/Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects that could occur, although most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild redness or tingling in very sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis for individuals allergic to Scutellaria species or fermentation by-products
- Temporary stinging if applied over broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Interaction with strong chemical exfoliants that may lead to over-exfoliation and barrier discomfort
- Risk of contamination in poorly preserved DIY formulas which can cause infection or irritation
If any negative reaction develops discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1
Lactobacillus/Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract Ferment Filtrate is water based, lightweight and free of heavy oils or waxes that normally clog pores. The molecules created during fermentation, such as lactic acid and small peptides, are readily absorbed and do not sit on the surface in a way that blocks follicles. Because of this it earns a very low comedogenic score.
Acne-prone and breakout-prone skin can generally use this ingredient without added risk of congestion.
As with any water rich ingredient, proper preservation is key. If a formula is poorly preserved bacteria could grow and that in turn might trigger irritation or breakouts, but this is a manufacturing issue rather than a property of the ferment itself.
Summary
Lactobacillus/Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract Ferment Filtrate offers two main perks: antioxidant protection and skin conditioning. The flavonoids from the Baikal skullcap root mop up free radicals, while the lactic acid, amino acids and sugars produced during fermentation reinforce the moisture barrier and keep skin smooth and hydrated.
Although not yet a household name, this ferment has been gaining fans in Asian inspired skincare for its gentle performance and compatibility with most routines. It slots easily into serums, essences and light creams without changing their texture.
Overall safety is high since the ingredient is mild, plant based and used in low to moderate amounts. Still, every skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product that includes this ferment before making it a daily staple.