What it is
Lactobacillus Extracellular Vesicles are small membrane-enclosed particles naturally secreted by Lactobacillus bacteria and isolated for cosmetic use. They are a postbiotic-type ingredient included as a skin-conditioning component intended to support skin comfort. The ingredient consists of the isolated vesicles rather than live bacteria, and it is typically used at low levels in the water phase.
Safety & warnings
As a cell-free postbiotic material used at low concentrations, this ingredient is generally well tolerated. Because it is a relatively newer class of cosmetic ingredient, those with very sensitive skin may prefer to patch test. It does not contain live microorganisms.
Origin & sourcing
Biotechnology-derived; the vesicles are produced by cultured Lactobacillus bacteria and then isolated from the culture, yielding a cell-free postbiotic material.
Questions everyone asks
Are these live bacteria?
No. Extracellular vesicles are cell-free particles isolated from Lactobacillus cultures, so the ingredient is a postbiotic material rather than live bacteria.
What do they do in skincare?
They are used as a skin-conditioning, comfort-supporting additive and do not act as a UV filter.