Ferments such as probiotics, enzymes, bacteria or yeast have been used in cosmetics for years. Indeed, the enzymes help to maintain our skin microbiome, the cutaneous microbial flora which consists of more than 500 different species of microorganisms that are multiplying every day on our skin.
This variety is crucial in the good balance of the skin and allows it to be better protected against external aggressions. Because, the less varied the skin microbial flora is, the more the unwanted pathologies can settle, including eczema or acne. By forming a protective barrier against external aggressions, inflammation, infections and other skin diseases, the skin microbiome can, in the long term, help the skin to remain better and to be better protected. The microbiome is, indeed, an important part of the skin’s barrier function and plays an essential role in the good health of the epidermis.
A balanced microbiome means that the skin looks healthy, radiant and regenerates itself better. When it’s weak and damaged, it can provoke dryness, sensibility, breakouts and other skin conditions.
In short, the ferments in cosmetics help to stimulate the natural skin defences. They can also be used to purify acne prone skin, to help rebuild the skin barrier of the sensitized skin or to protect the skin from pollution thanks to their antioxidant properties.
Their use has been known for many years in cosmetics, but what is more recent is the use of fermented natural ingredients, not just ferments alone.
Fermented ingredients are gaining a massive following for being more potent, powerful, and super boosting in skin care products.
Bio-fermented products for the cosmetic and personal care applications employs the principles of fermentation, which allows for the isolation and concentration of various phytochemicals. Fermentation has been regarded as both a traditional art and modern science.
Bioavailability of actives is increased by utilizing modern benefits of fermentation. Ingredients that provide increased skin and hair affinity are taking centre stage in the cosmetic industry.
Bio-fermented ingredients incorporated into beauty products can provide increased skin and hair affinity. For cosmetics, fermented ingredients are more symbiotic with the skin and support skin functions without disrupting natural processes making the ingredients less likely to cause sensitivity in skin care applications.
By initiating fermentation, various cosmetic benefits, such as improved bioactive delivery, oxygen uptake, moisturization, and reduction in skin irritation, can be increased and made more readily bioavailable for skin and hair care applications.