Bacillus Ferment

Best

Humectant

Bacillus Ferment at a glance

  • Considered an enzymatic exfoliant for skin (depending on the strain)
  • Probiotic peptide that may support the health of skin’s microbiome
  • May play a role in supporting skin’s collagen and hyaluronic acid
  • Efficacious in low amounts

Bacillus Ferment description

Bacillus ferment is a probiotic peptide typically created by fermenting the bacteria _Bacillus subtilis_ with various strains of yeast or other compounds which impact how the end result works on skin or hair. For example, some ferments have enzymatic activity that can “digest” (break down) keratin proteins found on skin’s surface; other types have a primary role in supporting skin’s microbiome. Bacillus ferment also has soothing and hydrating properties due to its ability to help strengthen skin’s microbiome, enabling this “invisible barrier” to reduce water loss and better maintain surface hydration. Usage levels as part of a blend with glycols or similar ingredients tends to be 0.5–3%. Higher amounts of this ferment have the potential to improve the look of blemish-prone skin. This is mostly by virtue of its soothing action and the implications that has on skin’s microbiome.

Bacillus Ferment references

  • Pharmaceutics, March 2022, pages 1–22
  • BMC Microbiology, August 2021, ePublication
  • Letters in Applied Microbiology, January 2010, pages 89–96
  • Journal of Ethnopharmacology, September 2009, pages 474–481
  • Process Biochemistry, January 2009, pages 83–90
  • Applied and Environmental Microbiology, January 2005, pages 594–596

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.