Fermentation – that's the thing we do with wine ;) – is increasingly appearing in cosmetic products as well. Asia is the pioneer of fermented ingredients in skincare! As great lovers of K-Beauty, let's take a look together at why we should know about fermented cosmetics!

So what exactly is fermentation?

Fermentation is a natural preservation method that describes a process in which a substance goes through in an environment with low oxygen content and low pH value. In this acidic environment, substances are released that we are used to seeing in skincare, including good bacteria, antioxidants, lactic acid, peptides and amino acids.

The benefits of fermented ingredients lie mainly in the change of their size - during fermentation, the substance breaks down into smaller molecules, which means that the ingredient is more easily absorbed by the skin.

How exactly does fermentation benefit our skin?

Fermented skincare ingredients are particularly beneficial for the skin microbiome - which we can understand as a complete ecosystem consisting of bacteria, viruses and yeasts that live on the skin's surface. Fermented ingredients thus lead to a more favorable and stable microbiome on the skin's surface, maintain the skin's pH balance and support the skin's protective barrier.

Fermentation also increases the level of antioxidants in ingredients, which can provide skin with a number of benefits, such as fighting free radicals that cause skin aging, increasing collagen production, repairing elasticity, reducing inflammation, reducing breakouts and improving texture.

Fermented ingredients can work wonders on your skin and are increasingly appearing in hydrating creams, toners and serums.

Among the most popular fermented ingredients are:

Galactomyces (GFF) - Galactomyces is a type of FUNGUS. Yes, yes... as much as we love mushrooms, the idea of applying mushrooms to the skin doesn't sound particularly appealing to us either.. So let's find out together whether Galactomyces is worthy enough to be part of our cosmetic routine!

It is said that Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate (GFF) was discovered in Japan decades ago, quite unexpectedly in a sake distillery.

Employees of a certain cosmetic company noticed that the hands of elderly sake masters were smooth and wrinkle-free, while their faces showed common signs of aging. Years of research confirmed that the cause was precisely - Galactomyces.

Among other benefits of using facial cosmetics containing Galactomyces is the fact that they can significantly reduce the size of enlarged pores, as well as blackheads, brighten tired and dull-looking skin, nourish and revitalize the skin while reducing signs of aging. No more thinking - bring on those mushrooms!

Bifida Ferment Lysate - probiotic. It is spoken of as one of K-Beauty's hidden secrets!

Bifida Ferment Lysate is a fermented ingredient created by fermenting Bifida bacteria. Its probiotic properties strengthen and nourish the skin microbiome.

It is great for overall skin health and vitality. It helps the skin by strengthening its microbiome – resulting in more resilient, less reactive and healthier skin.

Studies have also found that it helps prevent skin damage from UV radiation exposure, hydrates the skin and helps soothe inflammation and reduce dry skin.

Our tips for fermented cosmetics!

BENTON - Fermentation Essence 100ml

First-class facial serum. We call it a serum even though the name carries the word essence because of its packed composition! It contains highly active substances that help smooth wrinkles and fine lines, restores skin elasticity, returns its freshness and effectively hydrates and nourishes it.

BENTON - Fermentation Eye Cream 30g

Intensive eye care Benton Fermentation with a high concentration of fermented ingredients treats the eye area skin and provides it with necessary nutrition, hydration and fights aging in the eye area, smooths wrinkles and gives the eye area a youthful appearance. That's why we love it :)

NEOGEN - Dermalogy Real Ferment Micro Serum 30ml

Universal serum containing Korean fermented ingredients for maximum nutrition, elasticity and skin brightening. Gel-like serum for the skin that contains up to 61% of natural fermented complex and other active ingredients including vitamins and collagen that nourish the skin and help strengthen its elasticity. It instantly hydrates and provides the skin with a healthy "glowy look" without a greasy feeling.