Prebiotic/Probiotic/Postbiotic

Streptococcus Thermophilus … Ferment Filtrate

INCI: STREPTOCOCCUS THERMOPHILUS/LACTOBACILLUS/BIFIDOBACTERIUM/LICORICE ROOT EXTRACT FERMENT FILTRATE

Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 14 Aug 2026

Also known as: Streptococcus Thermophilus/lactobacillus/bifidobacterium/licorice Root Extract Ferment Filtrate

A fermented probiotic and botanical blend designed to support skin balance and resilience

Best For Skin Types

All, Sensitive, Combination

Addresses

Sensitivity, Redness, Barrier repair

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Streptococcus Thermophilus … Ferment Filtrate?

This ingredient is a ferment filtrate — a liquid extract created by fermenting beneficial bacterial cultures (Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium) alongside licorice root extract. The fermentation process breaks down plant compounds into smaller, more bioavailable molecules, while the bacterial metabolites contribute bioactive compounds to the final filtrate.

The result is a multi-functional ingredient that combines prebiotic and probiotic-derived components with the known soothing properties of licorice. It's designed to work as a skin conditioning agent whilst supporting the skin's natural microbiome.

Benefits for Your Skin

How It Works

Probiotic ferment filtrates work by delivering beneficial bacterial metabolites and enzymatic byproducts to the skin. These compounds can help modulate the skin's natural microbiota, supporting its ability to maintain a healthy pH and protective barrier. The licorice component adds documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, helping to reduce visible redness and oxidative stress.

Because this is a ferment filtrate rather than live bacteria, the benefit comes from the metabolic compounds produced during fermentation rather than from live organisms colonising the skin. This makes it more shelf-stable and suitable for topical application.

Clinical Evidence & References

Research into fermented botanical extracts and their skin benefits is growing, though evidence specific to this particular multi-component ferment is limited. Studies on individual components — such as licorice root extract for inflammation and Lactobacillus-derived compounds for barrier support — are more established, but translating these findings to combination formulations requires caution.

The probiotic ferment category shows promise for sensitive and compromised skin, particularly in supporting barrier repair and reducing inflammation. However, more rigorous clinical data would strengthen claims about efficacy. This ingredient is best viewed as a supportive, conditioning agent rather than a primary therapeutic treatment.

How to Use

This ingredient is typically found in serums, essences, toners, and moisturisers at concentrations that support overall skin conditioning. It can be used daily as part of a routine and pairs well with other hydrating or soothing ingredients. If your skin is sensitive, introduce it gradually to assess tolerance, though it is generally formulated for gentle, everyday use.

Safety & Precautions

This ingredient is generally well-tolerated across skin types. Those with severe probiotic sensitivities or compromised barriers may wish to patch-test first, though adverse reactions are uncommon.

Frequently Asked Questions

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