Ingredient review
Shiitake & Licorice Ferment Filtrate
INCI: LENTINUS EDODES/LICORICE ROOT EXTRACT FERMENT FILTRATE
A gentle fermented blend that may help calm skin and provide antioxidant support, though research is still emerging.
In plain English
This ingredient is made by fermenting shiitake mushrooms and licorice root together. Fermentation can break down plant compounds into smaller pieces that skin may absorb more easily. Shiitake mushrooms contain compounds that can help protect skin from environmental stress, while licorice root is known for its soothing and brightening effects. The combination aims to offer gentle antioxidant and calming benefits, but it's not a powerhouse ingredient on its own.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is still emerging, so marketing claims deserve extra caution.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- natural
- Evidence
- emerging
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Shiitake & Licorice Ferment 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 Shiitake & Licorice 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
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
emergingThe ingredient may be promising, but claims should be treated more cautiously.
What it is
A fermented filtrate derived from shiitake mushroom (Lentinus edodes) and licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) extract. The fermentation process uses beneficial microbes to transform the plant materials, potentially enhancing the bioavailability of their active compounds.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, this filtrate delivers a mix of natural antioxidants (from shiitake) and soothing compounds (from licorice, such as glabridin). The fermentation step may create smaller molecules that can penetrate the skin's surface more readily, helping to neutralize free radicals and reduce visible redness or irritation. It works best as part of a broader antioxidant or soothing formula.
Pros
Gentle on skin
The fermentation process may reduce potential irritants, making this blend suitable for sensitive skin types.
Dual-action benefits
Combines soothing licorice root with antioxidant-rich shiitake, offering two benefits in one ingredient.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
There are few peer-reviewed studies on this exact fermented blend, so its efficacy is not as well-established as single ingredients like niacinamide.
Variable potency
The concentration of active compounds can vary between batches, leading to inconsistent results in finished products.
Best for
- People with sensitive or easily irritated skin
- Those looking for gentle antioxidant support in their routine
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to mushrooms or licorice
- Anyone seeking a proven, high-potency antioxidant ingredient
Usage tips
Safety summary
This ingredient is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation. As with any plant-based ferment, individuals with mushroom or licorice allergies should patch test first. No serious safety concerns have been reported.
Research notes
Research on this specific blend is minimal. However, individual components—shiitake mushroom (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory) and licorice root (soothing, brightening)—have moderate evidence supporting their benefits. Fermentation may enhance absorption, but direct clinical data is lacking.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically 1-5% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the US and EU when used as directed. No specific restrictions apply.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Toner
- Environmental note
- Both shiitake mushrooms and licorice root are typically cultivated, with licorice farming having moderate water needs. Fermentation processes are generally low-impact.
Good to know
- Fermented ingredients are often marketed as 'postbiotics' and may support a healthy skin microbiome.
- Licorice root contains glabridin, which is known for its skin-brightening potential, but the amount in this blend may be low.
Common questions
What is Shiitake & Licorice Ferment Filtrate in beauty products?
This ingredient is made by fermenting shiitake mushrooms and licorice root together. Fermentation can break down plant compounds into smaller pieces that skin may absorb more easily. Shiitake mushrooms contain compounds that can help protect skin from environmental stress, while licorice root is known for its soothing and brightening effects. The combination aims to offer gentle antioxidant and calming benefits, but it's not a powerhouse ingredient on its own.
What does Shiitake & Licorice Ferment Filtrate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, this filtrate delivers a mix of natural antioxidants (from shiitake) and soothing compounds (from licorice, such as glabridin). The fermentation step may create smaller molecules that can penetrate the skin's surface more readily, helping to neutralize free radicals and reduce visible redness or irritation. It works best as part of a broader antioxidant or soothing formula.
Is Shiitake & Licorice Ferment Filtrate safe for most people?
This ingredient is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation. As with any plant-based ferment, individuals with mushroom or licorice allergies should patch test first. No serious safety concerns have been reported.
Who should be careful with Shiitake & Licorice Ferment Filtrate?
Individuals with known allergies to mushrooms or licorice Anyone seeking a proven, high-potency antioxidant ingredient
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.