The Skin Formulary
IngredientsBrandsJournalShop
Browse Products

Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams

Formula IngredientSkin Conditioning, Preservative

Lactobacillus Ferment

INCI: Lactobacillus Ferment

Lactobacillus Ferment is a probiotic-derived ingredient produced by fermenting Lactobacillus bacteria in a defined growth medium. During manufacturing, lysozyme is added to facilitate cell lysis and release antimicrobial peptides (bacteriocins), giving the ingredient broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi. It serves a dual function as both a natural preservative alternative and a skin conditioning agent with anti-inflammatory properties.

Category

Skin Conditioning, Preservative

Irritation Risk

Low

Skin Types

sensitive skin, acne-prone, rosacea-affected, all skin types

What does this do in a formula?

antimicrobial protection, skin conditioning, anti-inflammatory, microbiome balancing, acne reduction, soothing sensitive skin

Is Lactobacillus Ferment safe? Key considerations

Can Lactobacillus Ferment cause irritation?

Low Risk

Generally well tolerated. No EU Annex II or III restrictions. Slightly cationic in nature, which is unlikely to cause irritation at typical cosmetic concentrations (2–4%). Not known to be a common sensitiser.

Does Lactobacillus Ferment increase sun sensitivity?

No Risk

Lactobacillus Ferment does not increase photosensitivity. No special sun protection measures are required when using products containing this ingredient.

Is Lactobacillus Ferment safe during pregnancy?

MANUAL REVIEW: limited specific pregnancy safety data available. General consensus is low systemic absorption from topical probiotic ferments suggests low risk, but no dedicated pregnancy studies were found across sources.

MANUAL REVIEW: No specific pregnancy safety data found in EWG, INCIDecoder, or supplier documentation. California Prop 65 compliant (not known to cause cancer or reproductive harm). Topical probiotic ferments are generally considered low risk due to minimal systemic absorption, but consult a healthcare provider.

How does Lactobacillus Ferment work?

Lactobacillus Ferment is a probiotic-derived ingredient produced by fermenting Lactobacillus bacteria in a defined growth medium. During manufacturing, lysozyme is added to facilitate cell lysis and release antimicrobial peptides (bacteriocins), giving the ingredient broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi. It serves a dual function as both a natural preservative alternative and a skin conditioning agent with anti-inflammatory properties.

Individuals with known allergy to fermented ingredients or Lactobacillus-derived products should review the considerations above before use.