Fermentation in Skincare: The Secret Ingredient Behind K-Beauty Glow
Korean beauty brands combine innovation with effective formulations, delivering visible results that keep skin healthy, radiant, and revitalised. However, there is one widely used ingredient that seems to be causing some confusion....
K-Beauty has taken the skincare world by storm, with some of the most sought-after brands originating from Korea. Its influence can be seen in global trends such as gel masks, toner pads, and powerhouse ingredients like PDRN (salmon sperm) and centella asiatica. The reason is clear: Korean beauty brands combine innovation with effective formulations, delivering visible results that keep skin healthy, radiant, and revitalised.
However, there is one ingredient that seems to be causing some confusion. Keep reading to learn about the use of fermentation in K-beauty products, and the good it can do for your skin.
What Is Fermentation in Skincare and K-Beauty?
Fermentation is a natural process that uses microorganisms like such as bacteria or yeast to break down ingredients into smaller, more potent compounds.
In skincare terms, that means:
- During fermentation, the microorganisms digest natural ingredients (like plant extracts, rice, or botanicals).
- This process transforms the original ingredient into smaller molecules that the skin can absorb more easily.
- It can also enhance the potency of active compounds, increase levels of antioxidants, amino acids, and vitamins, and make the ingredient gentler and more stable.
So, when you see fermented ingredients in skincare like fermented rice water, galactomyces ferment filtrate, or bifida ferment lysate it means theyâve undergone the fermentation process to deliver effective results. This process also boosts the concentration of antioxidants, amino acids, and vitamins.
Why Fermented Ingredients Are a Game-Changer
Many K-Beauty brands use fermented ingredients as a key component of their products. In Korea, fermentation is a traditional practice carried out for food preservation in foods like kimchi and gochujang. The health benefits related to fermentation are endless, when used in skincare it can have an amazing impact:
- During the fermentation process, the molecular size of an ingredient can be reduced for enhanced absorption and penetration into the skin.
- Nutrients become even more concentrated and bioavailable.
- Although the impact is increased, once an ingredient is fermented it can be gentler on the skin.
Standout Fermented K-Beauty Ingredients
Weâve put together a list of our top 3 favourite fermented ingredients, and the products on our site that you can find them in.
Fermented Rice Water
Fermented rice water is a popular ingredient in Korean skincare, loved for its ultra-hydrating, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. One of our favourite products that contains this ingredient is the HaruHaru Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner For Sensitive Skin. The fermented rice water in the formula is supported by hyaluronic acid and beta-glucan, making it like calming glass of water for the skin. It also promotes cell renewal, leaving your complexion soft, smooth, and radiant.
Bifida Ferment Lysate
Bifida ferment lysate is a popular ingredient that has made its way outside of K-Beauty. It is created through a fermentation process with bifidobacterium, a strain of probiotic bacteria. After this process is complete, the lysate is isolated to create Bifida Ferment Lysate, which is filled with peptides and proteins that strengthen the skin. The Medicube Glutathione Glow Serum blends niacinamide and glutathione with bifida ferment lysate. These ingredients provide ultimate hydration to bolster the skinâs health. This serum also works to lift crowsâ feet, smile lines and forehead wrinkles for a youthful look to the look.
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate is a by-product of the fermentation of sake; a Japanese drink made from fermented rice. During the fermentation process, Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate is created. Itâs main purpose in Korean skincare products is to hydrate and provide antioxidant protection. It is the star ingredient in the Mixsoon Galactomyces Ferment Essence, a lightweight liquid formula that not only works to moisturise, but reduce the presence of discolouration, acne scarring and pigmentation on the skin.
Top 3 Fermented K-Beauty Products
Loved reading about fermentation in Korean skincare? Learn more about HaruHaru Wonder, the Korean skincare brand committed to creating natural, clean, and effective skincare.
