What it is
This ingredient is obtained by culturing Bacillus bacteria on a soybean substrate, a process related to traditional soy fermentation, then extracting the resulting material. Fermentation breaks down soy proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids and yields polysaccharides and other metabolites that condition and help hydrate the skin. It is used as a supporting conditioning agent in leave-on cosmetic formulas, including sunscreens marketed with probiotic-derived ingredients.
Safety & warnings
Generally well tolerated in cosmetic use. Because it is soy-derived, people with known soy sensitivities may wish to exercise caution and patch test.
Origin & sourcing
Biotechnological, derived from soybeans fermented by a Bacillus species.
Questions everyone asks
Is this the same as a probiotic?
It is a ferment extract made using bacteria, not live probiotics; cosmetic ingredients of this type are typically inactivated and used for their conditioning metabolites.
Does it contain soy?
Yes, it is derived from fermented soybeans, so those with soy sensitivities should take that into account.