Photo by Peter Nguyen on Unsplash
It is well known that eating foods that have undergone fermentation, such as yoghurt, kombucha, and kimchi, can improve gut health and increase the immune system. In recent years, the beauty world has started to add fermented extracts to specific products to improve their ability to carry out their intended function while promoting the health of the skin’s microbiome, and the results have been phenomenal. With this in mind, we thought we’d put together a beginners guide to fermented beauty:
What does “fermented” actually mean?
Fermentation is a natural process through which microorganisms like yeast and bacteria convert carbs, such as starch and sugar, into alcohol or acids. The alcohol or acids act as a natural preservative and give fermented foods a distinct zest and tartness.
How long have humans been fermenting things?
According to LHF, “Humans have been controlling the fermentation process for thousands of years, primarily in the form of fermented beverages in the earliest days. Evidence of a fermented alcoholic beverage made from fruit, honey, and rice found in Neolithic China dates back to 7000-6600 BCE”
What does using fermented ingredients do for my skin?
There are numerous benefits to using fermented ingredients in skincare, and although it’s a relatively recent thing here in the West, believe us, this trend isn’t new! People have been using fermented products on their skin for centuries; its said that to maintain soft, tender skin, Japanese geishas traditionally used a fermented rice solution for lotions and toners.
Fermented ingredients are loaded with natural antioxidants, vitamins and amino acids, which help to increase skin cell turnover rate. They also have better “bio availability” which means they’re easier for the skin to absorb and they also offer natural anti-inflammatory properties.
Which products contain fermented ingredients?
Dermalogica Stress Positive Eye Lift contains fermented yeast which is manufactured in a lab using fermentation biotechnology in which yeast are fed a nutrient media essential for the yeast’s development. This ingredient is helpful for firming and hydrating skin to help generate a lifting effect, as well as protecting the skin’s barrier integrity. In-vitro studies have confirmed that fermented yeast is effective at protecting skin lipids, which are critical for proper functioning of the skin’s lipid structure.
Elemis Superfood Glow Priming Moisturiser contains kombucha, an ingredient which is created when black tea undergoes a fermentation process to release compounds which are beneficial to the skin. Rich in vitamins and organic acids, it has been shown to reveal a more glowing complexion.
Aromatherapy Associates Eye Zone Concentrate contains powerful, high-tech bio-fermented actives, advanced amino acids and an effective pure essential oil blend to lift, tighten and contour the area around the eyes. The triple firming action of hydroxyproline works to restore the elasticity of the skin, while edelweiss stem cells help minimise the appearance of fine lines
Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Body Oil contains calming fermented red ginseng, inspired by Korean skin care rituals, calms and nourishes to deliver glowing skin, as well as bergamot, neroli, orange, patchouli and sandalwood which leave skin soft and delicately scented.
Elemis Superfood AHA Glow Cleansing Butter contains both fermented pumpkin which is packed with AHAs and natural enzymes capable of enhancing the skin’s natural cellular renewal process to gently smooth away dull skin for a fresh glowing complexion and fermented acerola cherry, a natural source of AHAs and vitamin C, which helps to boost the appearance of healthy skin and promote a beautifully bright, hydrated complexion.
