Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract
Soybean extract fermented with lactobacilli. Postbiotic: contains metabolites with claimed barrier-restoring effects. Often used as soothing in skincare.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Fermented extract with accumulated in vitro and pilot clinical data. Part of the 'postbiotics' trend; evidence base is developing.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Moderate
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract is soy extract fermented with lactobacilli. Contains isoflavones (genistein, daidzein), lactic acid, amino acids and peptides. Technologically similar to the Korean traditional fermented product cheonggukjang. Mechanism. Isoflavones show antioxidant and weak phytoestrogenic effect in fibroblast culture (Wei 2003). Lactic acid provides a surface humectant effect. Peptides support the barrier. Where applied. K-beauty recovery lines (Sulwhasoo, Beauty of Joseon), premium European mature-skin cosmetics. Concentrations 0.5–3%. Evidence base. Human RCTs are few. In vitro – antioxidant effect and collagen synthesis stimulation in fibroblasts. Dermatology guidelines (AAD 2024, NICE 2024) do not mention it. In pregnancy manufacturers recommend caution due to soy phytoestrogens, although topical systemic absorption of isoflavones is minimal. Soy allergy is a contraindication. Safe pregnancy alternatives – niacinamide, panthenol, centella.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract safe during pregnancy?
Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract for?
Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Soybean extract fermented with lactobacilli.
What's the INCI name for Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract?
The INCI name is Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract. It may also appear as: Lactobacillus Soybean Ferment Extract.
See Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract in a product composition right on the store page
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