What Is Nostoc Commune/Hydrangea Serrata Leaf/Soybean Ferment Filtrate?
Nostoc Commune/Hydrangea Serrata Leaf/Soybean Ferment Filtrate is produced when soybeans and the leaves of the mountain hydrangea (Hydrangea serrata) are fermented with the help of the freshwater cyanobacterium Nostoc commune. During fermentation the microorganism breaks down plant material and proteins into smaller molecules such as amino acids, peptides and sugars, while also creating bioactive compounds like antioxidants and moisturising polysaccharides. Once fermentation is complete the mixture is filtered to remove solids, leaving a clear nutrient rich liquid that can be blended into cosmetic formulas.
Fermented plant extracts have a long history in East Asian beauty rituals, and this specific blend grew out of Korean laboratory research looking to pair soybean’s skin friendly proteins with the calming properties of hydrangea and the resilience boosting metabolites of Nostoc commune. The process has been refined to meet modern cosmetic standards, using controlled fermentation tanks, food grade soybeans and pesticide tested leaves to ensure consistency and safety.
The filtrate’s multitasking profile makes it a popular addition to hydrating toners, soothing sheet masks, lightweight moisturisers, anti aging serums, scalp tonics and leave in hair treatments seeking a natural alternative to synthetic humectants and antioxidants.
Nostoc Commune/Hydrangea Serrata Leaf/Soybean Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile ingredient brings several functional perks to skin and hair care formulations
- Antioxidant: Helps neutralise free radicals generated by UV light and pollution which can otherwise accelerate signs of ageing such as fine lines dullness and uneven tone
- Hair Conditioning: Deposits lightweight proteins and sugars that smooth the cuticle reduce static and add softness without weighing strands down
- Humectant: Attracts and binds water to the skin surface improving immediate hydration and helping maintain a supple feel throughout the day
- Skin Conditioning: Supplies amino acids and polysaccharides that support the skin barrier which can enhance comfort and leave the complexion looking plump and refreshed
Who Can Use Nostoc Commune/Hydrangea Serrata Leaf/Soybean Ferment Filtrate
This ferment filtrate is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Its lightweight water binding sugars suit dry skin that needs extra moisture yet the non greasy feel makes it comfortable for normal oily or combination skin as well. People with very sensitive or reactive skin should read labels carefully because the blend contains soy and plant proteins that could trigger a rare allergy.
The ingredient is plant derived and produced through microbial fermentation so it is considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. No animal sourced materials are used in the process.
Current data does not point to any specific risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the filtrate is used topically in cosmetics. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full product list to a doctor for personal guidance.
The filtrate does not heighten sensitivity to sunlight and can be worn during daytime without raising the chance of sunburn. As always daily sunscreen is recommended for broader skin protection.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to Nostoc Commune/Hydrangea Serrata Leaf/Soybean Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The issues below are possible yet unlikely for most users when the ingredient is formulated and used as intended.
- Allergic reaction in individuals who are sensitive to soy or hydrangea plant matter
- Mild redness stinging or itching on very reactive skin
- Contact dermatitis marked by swelling or small hives in severe allergy cases
- Breakouts or clogging if paired with heavy occlusive ingredients on acne prone skin
- Scalp buildup or flaking when overused in leave in hair products
If any irritation or other negative effect occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
This filtrate is mostly water and small, water-soluble molecules like amino acids, peptides and sugars, with virtually no heavy oils or waxes that typically clog pores. Its light texture sinks in quickly so residue is minimal. That earns it a very low comedogenic score.
Suitable for acne-prone skin because it is unlikely to block pores or trigger new breakouts.
Keep in mind that a formula’s overall pore-clogging potential depends on every ingredient in the product, so look at the full ingredient list if congestion is a concern.
Summary
Nostoc Commune/Hydrangea Serrata Leaf/Soybean Ferment Filtrate acts as an antioxidant, humectant, and skin and hair conditioner. Fermentation breaks soy and hydrangea proteins into tiny peptides and sugars that bind water, fortify the skin barrier and smooth hair cuticles while metabolites from Nostoc commune add free-radical fighting power.
It shows up most often in Korean beauty toners, serums and lightweight moisturisers, though it is still considered a niche botanical in Western markets.
Current safety data and user experience suggest the filtrate is gentle for most skin types with only rare allergy reports, yet it is always smart to patch test any new product to make sure it agrees with your unique skin.