What it is
In cosmetic ingredient labeling, Lactobacillus refers to preparations of Lactobacillus bacteria, a group of lactic acid bacteria. These materials are used as skin-conditioning agents and frequently appear in ferment-based or microbiome-themed products. In sunscreens they serve the skin-care narrative and do not act as UV filters.
Safety & warnings
Lactobacillus-based cosmetic ingredients are generally well tolerated. Sensitivity is uncommon, though as with any biologically derived material individuals with reactive skin may prefer to patch test.
Origin & sourcing
Derived from Lactobacillus, a genus of lactic acid bacteria; cosmetic forms are typically inactivated bacterial preparations or their fermentation-derived materials.
Questions everyone asks
Are there live bacteria in the product?
Cosmetic forms are typically inactivated preparations or fermentation-derived materials rather than live cultures.
Does it protect against UV?
No. It is a skin-conditioning ingredient and does not provide sun protection.