Ingredient review
Fermented Rice Bran Filtrate
INCI: Aspergillus/Defatted Rice Bran/Alcohol/Borneol Ferment Filtrate
A gentle, fermented ingredient that helps hydrate and support skin barrier function with antioxidant benefits.
In plain English
This ingredient is made by fermenting defatted rice bran with a type of fungus called Aspergillus. The fermentation process breaks down the rice bran into smaller, more skin-friendly molecules like amino acids and peptides. When applied to the skin, it helps attract moisture and provides antioxidant protection against environmental stressors. It's a mild, well-tolerated ingredient often found in hydrating serums and essences.
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Fermented Rice Bran Filtrate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Fermented Rice Bran Filtrate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A ferment filtrate produced by culturing Aspergillus fungus on defatted rice bran, alcohol, and borneol, then filtering the liquid to collect beneficial metabolites.
How it works
The fermentation process creates small peptides and amino acids that can help hydrate the skin and support its natural barrier. The filtrate also contains antioxidants that may help neutralize free radicals from UV and pollution exposure.
Pros
Gentle hydration
Provides moisture without irritation, making it suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types.
Antioxidant support
Contains compounds that help protect skin from environmental damage like pollution and UV exposure.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
Most evidence comes from studies on similar ferments, not this exact ingredient, so its specific benefits are less proven.
Potential trace alcohol
Alcohol is used in the fermentation process and trace amounts may remain, which could be drying for very dry skin.
Best for
- People with dry or dehydrated skin
- Those looking for a gentle, fermented ingredient to boost hydration
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known allergy to Aspergillus or fermented rice products
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for topical use with low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported in cosmetic concentrations.
Research notes
Research on rice bran ferments shows antioxidant and moisturizing benefits, but direct studies on this specific Aspergillus ferment are limited. Evidence is largely extrapolated from similar fermented ingredients.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the US and EU; no specific restrictions.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Essences, Toner
- Environmental note
- Rice bran is a byproduct of rice milling, so using it in cosmetics can help reduce food waste.
Good to know
- Fermented ingredients are often better absorbed by the skin because the fermentation process breaks down larger molecules.
- This ingredient is typically clear or slightly yellow in formula and has a mild, earthy scent.
Common questions
What is Fermented Rice Bran Filtrate in beauty products?
This ingredient is made by fermenting defatted rice bran with a type of fungus called Aspergillus. The fermentation process breaks down the rice bran into smaller, more skin-friendly molecules like amino acids and peptides. When applied to the skin, it helps attract moisture and provides antioxidant protection against environmental stressors. It's a mild, well-tolerated ingredient often found in hydrating serums and essences.
What does Fermented Rice Bran Filtrate do in a beauty product?
The fermentation process creates small peptides and amino acids that can help hydrate the skin and support its natural barrier. The filtrate also contains antioxidants that may help neutralize free radicals from UV and pollution exposure.
Is Fermented Rice Bran Filtrate safe for most people?
Considered safe for topical use with low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported in cosmetic concentrations.
Who should be careful with Fermented Rice Bran Filtrate?
Individuals with a known allergy to Aspergillus or fermented rice products
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.