Ingredient review
Lactobacillus/Horse Fat Ferment Filtrate
INCI: LACTOBACILLUS/HORSE FAT FERMENT FILTRATE
A novel fermented ingredient that may help moisturize and condition skin, but research is limited and it may be comedogenic for some.
In plain English
This ingredient is made by fermenting horse fat with friendly bacteria (Lactobacillus). The fermentation process breaks down the fat into smaller molecules that may be more easily absorbed by the skin. It's used in moisturizers and serums to help soften and condition the skin, similar to how other fermented oils work. However, because it's derived from animal fat, it has a moderate risk of clogging pores, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is still emerging, so marketing claims deserve extra caution.
Main practical flags: irritation is low; clogging risk is moderate.
- Source
- biotech
- Evidence
- emerging
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- moderate
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Lactobacillus/Horse Fat Ferment Filtrate can be useful, but watch for possible clogging concerns.
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 Lactobacillus/Horse Fat Ferment 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
moderateMay be fine for many users but deserves caution if you are breakout-prone.
Evidence level
emergingThe ingredient may be promising, but claims should be treated more cautiously.
What it is
A filtrate from the fermentation of horse fat by Lactobacillus bacteria, containing fatty acids, peptides, and other bioactive compounds.
How it works
The fermentation process creates smaller lipid molecules and peptides that can penetrate the skin's surface, helping to replenish the skin's natural barrier and lock in moisture. The fatty acids may also have mild anti-inflammatory effects.
Pros
Potential moisturizing benefits
The fermented fatty acids may help soften and hydrate the skin, making it feel smoother and more supple.
Novel biotech ingredient
Fermentation can create smaller, potentially more absorbable molecules, which may enhance skin conditioning compared to unfermented fats.
Cons and cautions
Moderate pore-clogging risk
Because it's derived from animal fat, it has a moderate comedogenic rating, meaning it could cause breakouts in those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Limited research
There is very little published scientific evidence on this specific ingredient, so its benefits and safety are not well-established compared to more common moisturizers.
Best for
- Those with dry or mature skin looking for extra moisture
- People interested in fermented skincare ingredients
Use caution if
- Those with oily or acne-prone skin due to comedogenic risk
- Vegans or those avoiding animal-derived ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
This ingredient is likely safe for most skin types when used in typical cosmetic concentrations, but its moderate comedogenic risk and lack of long-term safety data warrant caution, especially for acne-prone individuals.
Research notes
There is very little peer-reviewed research on Lactobacillus/Horse Fat Ferment Filtrate specifically. Its benefits are inferred from general knowledge of fermented oils and Lactobacillus ferments, which are known to produce skin-conditioning peptides and fatty acids.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 1-5% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the EU and US, but not specifically evaluated by the FDA or EU CosIng as a novel ingredient.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Serums, Anti-aging creams
- Environmental note
- Horse fat is a byproduct of the meat industry, so using it may reduce waste, but it is not suitable for vegan or cruelty-free consumers.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in K-beauty and luxury skincare products that emphasize fermentation.
- The fermentation process may reduce the greasy feel of the original fat, making it more cosmetically elegant.
Common questions
What is Lactobacillus/Horse Fat Ferment Filtrate in beauty products?
This ingredient is made by fermenting horse fat with friendly bacteria (Lactobacillus). The fermentation process breaks down the fat into smaller molecules that may be more easily absorbed by the skin. It's used in moisturizers and serums to help soften and condition the skin, similar to how other fermented oils work. However, because it's derived from animal fat, it has a moderate risk of clogging pores, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
What does Lactobacillus/Horse Fat Ferment Filtrate do in a beauty product?
The fermentation process creates smaller lipid molecules and peptides that can penetrate the skin's surface, helping to replenish the skin's natural barrier and lock in moisture. The fatty acids may also have mild anti-inflammatory effects.
Is Lactobacillus/Horse Fat Ferment Filtrate safe for most people?
This ingredient is likely safe for most skin types when used in typical cosmetic concentrations, but its moderate comedogenic risk and lack of long-term safety data warrant caution, especially for acne-prone individuals.
Who should be careful with Lactobacillus/Horse Fat Ferment Filtrate?
Those with oily or acne-prone skin due to comedogenic risk Vegans or those avoiding animal-derived ingredients
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.