What Is Lactobacillus/Sorghum Bicolor Leaf/Stem Extract Ferment Filtrate?
Lactobacillus/Sorghum Bicolor Leaf/Stem Extract Ferment Filtrate is a liquid that comes from fermenting the leaves and stems of sorghum, a hardy cereal grain, with the friendly bacterium lactobacillus. During fermentation, the bacteria break down plant sugars and proteins, creating smaller molecules like peptides, amino acids and antioxidants that skin can easily use. This process also lowers the pH of the mixture, making the final filtrate more skin compatible. The ingredient first gained attention in Korean skin care, where fermented botanicals are prized for their mild nature and boosted nutrient profile. Today it is produced by steeping sorghum plant material in water, adding a controlled culture of lactobacillus and letting the mixture ferment under warm, clean conditions. After several days, the liquid is filtered to remove solids, yielding a clear or light amber fluid that blends well into water based formulas. You will usually see it in lotions, serums, sheet masks, soothing gels and anti aging blends that aim to give skin a hydrated, comfortable feel.
Lactobacillus/Sorghum Bicolor Leaf/Stem Extract Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ferment filtrate is valued for its role as a skin conditioning agent. It helps soften and smooth the surface of the skin, supports a healthy moisture balance and can leave the complexion feeling calm and refreshed. By delivering easily absorbed nutrients it may also improve the overall look of skin texture, making products feel more luxurious and effective.
Who Can Use Lactobacillus/Sorghum Bicolor Leaf/Stem Extract Ferment Filtrate
This ferment filtrate is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Dry or mature skin may appreciate its hydrating and smoothing qualities while oily and acne-prone skin usually find it light enough not to clog pores. Sensitive skin often benefits from its gentle, low-pH nature, though anyone with a known sorghum or grain allergy should proceed carefully. The ingredient is plant based and produced through bacterial fermentation, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians because no animal-derived materials are involved in its manufacture.
Current data show no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the filtrate is used in topical products formulated for cosmetic use. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a physician before adding new skincare items to their routine to be on the safe side.
The filtrate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there are no special timing restrictions related to daytime application. It blends easily with most other cosmetic ingredients and is compatible with both leave-on and rinse-off products.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Lactobacillus/Sorghum Bicolor Leaf/Stem Extract Ferment Filtrate differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects that could occur, but most users will not experience them when the ingredient has been properly formulated and preserved in a finished product.
Transient stinging or warmth on very compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
Mild redness or irritation in individuals sensitive to fermented botanicals
Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of grain or plant extract allergy
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Comedogenic rating: 0/5
Lactobacillus/Sorghum Bicolor Leaf/Stem Extract Ferment Filtrate is water based and free of heavy oils or waxes so it does not create the kind of film that can trap sebum and debris in pores. Its small water soluble molecules rinse cleanly from the skin surface making clogging unlikely.
This profile makes the ingredient well suited to acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Used at low levels alongside light humectants it rarely interferes with normal oil flow. No studies connect it to increased blemishes though overall formula composition still matters.
Summary
Lactobacillus/Sorghum Bicolor Leaf/Stem Extract Ferment Filtrate works mainly as a skin conditioner, delivering fermented amino acids peptides and antioxidants that smooth rough spots and help the skin hold onto moisture. The low pH produced during fermentation also supports a healthy skin barrier.
While not yet a household name, interest in fermented botanicals from Korean beauty has made this filtrate a familiar sight in niche serums lotions and sheet masks aimed at gentle hydration.
Available safety data rate the ingredient as low risk with minimal chances of irritation or pore clogging. Still, patch testing a new product that contains it is a sensible step for anyone, especially those with sensitive skin.