Bifida ferment

Bifida ferment is an umbrella term for cosmetic ingredients made from bifidobacteria (genus Bifidobacterium). The best known is Bifida Ferment Lysate, a lysate of broken-down bacteria, but Bifida Ferment Extract and Bifida Ferment Filtrate are also used. These are not live cultures.

It suits you if your skin is dry or on the sensitive side and feels tight after cleansing, and you are looking for a simple hydrating layer or a comforting cream.

What the evidence shows – and what it does not

A randomised double-blind study involving 66 women with reactive skin evaluated a cream containing 10% of a specific Bifidobacterium longum preparation over two months. The treated group showed more favourable skin-reactivity results in the measured tests than the control-cream group. These findings cannot automatically be extended to all cosmetic ingredients labelled Bifida Ferment Lysate, Extract or Filtrate, or to finished products containing them. Brands usually do not publish the concentration.

Lysate, extract or probiotic?

In skincare these ingredients are often called probiotics. It is more accurate to speak of ferments and lysates, as the product contains no live bacteria. Lysates may fall within the broader field of postbiotic preparations, but the INCI name alone does not guarantee that an ingredient meets the scientific definition of a postbiotic. Lysate, Extract and Filtrate differ in how the raw material is processed, so read the exact name in the INCI list.

How to use it in your routine

You will find bifida ferment mainly in essences, serums and creams. Apply an essence after cleansing, before serum and moisturiser, morning and evening. Bifida ferment has no special rules for combining and also works alongside actives. Follow with SPF in the morning.

What to watch out for

Tolerance is individual, even with a short formula. If your skin is very reactive, patch test a new product on a small area first.

Bifida ferment products at VIONE

• mixsoon Bifida Ferment Essence – a watery essence with four listed ingredients (water, butylene glycol, Bifida Ferment Extract, glycerin) as a light hydrating layer for dry, sensitive skin. Fragrance-free.
• Ma:nyo Bifida Biome Concentrate Eye Cream – an eye cream with ferments, peptides and hydrating ingredients.

Frequently asked questions

Is Bifida Ferment Lysate the same as Bifida Ferment Extract?

No. Both come from bifidobacteria, but they are processed differently. Study results for the lysate cannot automatically be applied to the extract.

The principle of fermentation in Korean skincare is described in our glossary entry on fermentation. You will find essences in Toners and essences.