Fermented skin care is having a moment, though the concept has been a staple in K-beauty routines for centuries. Our skin loves natural food sources. Fermented skin care, much like fermented foods, means that microorganisms (bacteria) have been added, which release enzymes that break down the ingredients, yielding products that our skin (and tummies) love. Just like wine, beer, kimchi, sauerkraut and yogurt are fermented into foods that promote healthy gut bacteria, ingredients like yeast, milk, fruit and plants are fermented into skin care products with so many added benefits.
Fermentation causes a substance to undergo three major changes — 1) it becomes easier for the skin to absorb, 2) it removes irritating substances and 3) it becomes more nutrient-dense. Basically, the bacteria breaks down the substance into smaller particles (for easier absorption), it neutralizes irritants (like pesticides) so the end product is gentle enough for sensitive skin and the process produces antioxidants, peptides and amino acids not found in the raw material, so it becomes a topical nutrient powerhouse. Typically, the fermentation of skin care ingredients is much shorter than that of foods because it will eventually cause the ingredients to break down and be less effective. Fermentation also helps to prolong a product’s shelf life — no need to add synthetic preservatives as it’s full of anti-microbial organisms.
If you’re looking to hydrate, plump and minimize lines and wrinkles, consider adding a fermented skin care product to your regimen. Popular fermented ingredients include: berries, seaweed, tea and yeast (to name a few). These natural wonders can strengthen your skin barrier and give you stunning results. Here are a few of our favorite fermented products to try now.
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This article originally appeared on TotalBeauty.com
Who Knew? Fermented Ingredients Also Do Amazing Things for Your Skin Care
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Fresh
Black Tea Kombucha Facial Essence, $68 at Sephora
Fermented Ingredient(s): Black Tea Kombucha
Why we love it: If you're a fan of the bubbly beverage, try this lightweight essence that instantly plumps and brightens up a dull complexion. Fermentation ups the antioxidant and anti-pollution factors to help treat and prevent fine lines. Splash it on after cleansing to prep skin for your other products — it has a yummy, refreshing scent too. -
Neogen Dermatology
Real Ferment Micro Serum, $38 at Soko Glam
Fermented Ingredient(s): Yeast, Rice
Why we love it: This scent-free gel-serum absorbs so quickly, leaving skin brighter and pores and fine lines less visible. It doesn't leave behind any stickiness and it balances oil production, so it's just as great under makeup as it is at bedtime. -
Lancer
Omega Hydrating Oil with Ferment Complex, $75 at Sephora
Fermented Ingredient(s): A Fermented Oil Blend (Argan, Licorice, Olive and Shiunko)
Why we love it: Full of polyphenols, omega fatty acids and antioxidants, this lightweight oil softens lines and improves the elasticity of skin. It also contains vitamin C and turmeric to brighten. Use it to soothe and soften after any exfoliating treatment or as a glow-inducing step prior to applying makeup. -
ReVive
Intensite Complete Anti-Aging Serum, $485
Available September 2018 at ReVive
Fermented Ingredient(s): Black Tea Kombucha
Why we love it: While this one is a bit of a splurge, hear us out. This serum packs a punch moisturizing, smoothing lines and plumping the skin. The silky, lightweight formula contains cone snail venom to relax wrinkles as well as hyaluronic acid to plump and vitamin E to heal damage caused by free radicals. Use it day and night for softer, smoother skin. -
Stacked Skincare
EGF Activating Serum, $150 at Stacked Skincare
Fermented Ingredient(s): Yeast
Why we love it: EGF or epidermal growth factors are (in this case vegan) proteins that aid in cell turnover, stimulate collagen production and promote skin healing. This lightweight serum is great for anyone struggling with acne, dark spots or wrinkles. It speeds up cell turnover, helping to fight hyperpigmentation from sun exposure and skin trauma (like that bad breakout you couldn't just leave alone). Over time, your skin will be smoother and more even-toned. It has a pleasant yeasty scent reminiscent of bread and beer. -
Palermo Body
Hydrating Facial Toner — Rosewater + Chamomile, $44 at Palermo Body
Fermented Ingredient(s): Lactobacillus Ferment
Why we love it: This refreshing spray toner smells like a trip to the spa, thanks to geranium and mandarin oils. It's loaded with skin-soothers like aloe, chamomile and witch hazel as well as lactobacillus ferment (traditionally used as the fermenting agent in many of your fave foods) to balance the good bacteria in your skin. It's great pre- and post-makeup to calm and refresh skin and keep acne at bay. -
Missha
Pure Source Cell Sheet Mask Red Ginseng, $2 at Missha
Fermented Ingredient: Red Ginseng
Why we love it: This lightly scented, soothing face mask is a steal at just $2. Not only does it fit your face, it stays put without being over-drippy. It's packed with antioxidant red ginseng, which is revered for its brightening, toning and anti-aging properties. It also contains allantoin, a plant-based compound that soothes skin and aids in the healing of wounds and other skin irritations. This is one sheet mask you can afford to use several times per week. -
Oneoseven
Coreflex Hydro Rich Cream, $52 at Oneoseven
Fermented Ingredient: Vinegar
Why we love it: A truly comfortable moisturizer with a multi-generational Korean heritage, it's created from naturally fermented (for seven years) grain vinegar, which is also consumed as a health beverage and has serious anti-aging skin benefits. It's full of amino acids and it works wonders at firming and plumping skin. It also contains other natural ingredients like squalane, pomegranate, soy milk and red ginseng. Skin is left so soft and smooth, never greasy and there is a fresh (non-vinegary) scent. -
Origins
Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Mega-Mushroom Relief & Resilience Soothing Face Mask, $40 at Sephora
Fermented Ingredient(s): Chaga and Coprinus Mushrooms
Why we love it: If you have sensitive skin or are prone to redness (like acne or eczema), you'll love this gentle, soothing mask. It's formulated with multiple antioxidant-rich mushroom species to soothe irritation and strengthen your natural skin barrier. The rich, creamy formula feels more like a night cream than a mask. Wear it for 10 minutes and remove with a tissue, allowing a small amount of product to remain. The redness-reducing effects are fast and drastic.
