Peptides

Bacillus … Ferment Filtrate

INCI: BACILLUS/BIOTIN/POLYSORBATE 80/SOY PEPTIDE FERMENT FILTRATE

Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 2 Jun 2026

Also known as: Bacillus/biotin/polysorbate 80/soy Peptide Ferment Filtrate

A fermented peptide complex that supports skin hydration and barrier function

Best For Skin Types

All, Dry, Sensitive

Addresses

Dryness, Hydration, Barrier repair, Sensitivity

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Bacillus … Ferment Filtrate?

Soy peptide ferment filtrate is derived from soy protein that has undergone fermentation with Bacillus bacteria. This process breaks down the larger soy proteins into smaller peptide chains, which are more readily absorbed by the skin. The fermentation also produces bioactive compounds that can benefit skin health.

In skincare formulations, this ingredient functions primarily as a humectant — a substance that draws moisture into the skin and helps it retain water. The polysorbate 80 component serves as an emulsifier, helping to blend the water-soluble peptides evenly throughout a product.

How It Works

Soy peptides are small enough to be absorbed into the outer layers of skin, where they can be incorporated into the skin's structural proteins and help reinforce the barrier. As humectants, they also hygroscopically draw water from the deeper skin layers and the environment into the epidermis, temporarily plumping and hydrating the skin.

The fermentation process may also generate bioactive metabolites — compounds produced by the Bacillus bacteria during fermentation — that have additional skin-conditioning properties. This makes fermented peptide complexes potentially more effective than non-fermented soy peptides.

Clinical Evidence & References

Research on fermented soy peptides in skincare is limited. Most supporting data comes from in vitro (laboratory) studies and small consumer trials rather than large-scale clinical trials. These studies suggest that fermented peptide complexes can improve skin hydration and have mild soothing effects.

Evidence is strongest for the hydration and barrier-support benefits; claims about anti-ageing or transformative effects are not yet well-established. More robust clinical data would help clarify the ingredient's true efficacy and optimal concentration.

How to Use

This ingredient is typically found in serums, essences, and moisturisers. Since it functions as a humectant, it works best when applied to damp skin, allowing it to draw moisture into the epidermis. Follow with an occlusive product (like a cream or facial oil) to seal in the hydration. It can be used daily, morning and evening, as part of a standard skincare routine.

Safety & Precautions

Soy peptide ferment filtrate is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for topical use. Those with soy allergies should exercise caution, though topical exposure is lower-risk than ingestion. Polysorbate 80 is a common cosmetic ingredient with a good safety profile.

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