You've probably noticed the word "fermented" appearing on a lot of skincare labels lately, especially K-Beauty products. The cosmetic industry has embraced bioferments in a big way, and there's actually solid science behind the trend.
So What's the Deal With (bio)Fermentation?
Biofermentation is a process in which beneficial microorganisms, such as bacteria, yeast, or enzymes, alter the composition of skincare ingredients to boost their effectiveness (efficacy). Companies are using ferments of everything from rice water to green tea, allowing the microorganisms they produce to break down the molecular structure of active ingredients to create new, more potent compounds.
The Real Skin Benefits
Here's where it gets really interesting. When ingredients undergo fermentation, they become more bioavailable – meaning your skin can actually absorb and use them more effectively. Those larger molecules that used to just sit on your skin's surface? Now they're small enough to penetrate deeper into the epidermis (the outermost layer of human skin) and deliver better results.
Fermented ingredients also tend to be gentler on the skin. The fermentation process naturally reduces potential irritants while enhancing beneficial compounds, such as amino acids, peptides, and vitamins. So while you’re getting enhanced benefits, there’s also less risk of irritation and sensitivity.
The Popular Players
Some of the most talked-about bioferments include fermented rice water (a K-Beauty staple), fermented green tea, and various fermented botanical extracts. These aren't just trendy additions – research shows they can help with hydration, antioxidant protection, and overall skin health.
Some of my favorites:
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence
Contains Pitera (fermented yeast extract) and is considered the gold standard for fermented essences.
Price: ~$185-$230
Benefits: Reduces fine lines, improves skin texture, and firmness.
Neogen Real Ferment Micro Essence
Contains 93% fermented ingredients, including bifida ferment lysate.
Price: ~$32
Benefits: Anti-aging, barrier repair, hydration.
Contains fermented rice and botanical extracts
Price: ~$95
Benefits: Plumping, anti-aging, radiance.
Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum
Contains a combination of fermented ingredients with alpha arbutin and niacinamide
Price: ~$17
Benefits: Brightening, calming, and hyperpigmentation reduction (alpha arbutin).
COSRX Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence
95% galactomyces ferment filtrate
Price: ~$16-25
Benefits: Brightening, pore refinement, hydration.
#MyTwoCents
Bioferments represent a genuinely innovative approach to skincare, making active ingredients not only more effective but also less irritating. The science is promising, and the results speak for themselves.
The great thing is that you don't need to change your existing skincare routine to incorporate bioferments. It’s easy to layer in a toner, essence, or serum if you want to try something new that might provide that extra boost your skin is craving.
Have you tried biofermented skincare? Share your experience in the comments and let’s start a conversation!
kjb - xo