What is Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Usnea Longissima Ferment Filtrate?
Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Usnea Longissima Ferment Filtrate, also known as LSULF, is a filtrate of the product obtained by the fermentation of Usnea longissima by the microorganisms Lactobacillus and Saccharomyces. Usnea longissima, commonly known as old man’s beard, is a type of lichen that grows on trees. Lactobacillus and Saccharomyces are types of bacteria and yeast, respectively, that are commonly used in fermentation processes.
The use of LSULF in cosmetics is a relatively recent development, reflecting the growing interest in harnessing the power of fermentation and probiotics for skin health. The process of making LSULF involves fermenting Usnea longissima with Lactobacillus and Saccharomyces, then filtering the resulting product to create a filtrate that can be used in cosmetic formulations.
LSULF is similar to other fermented ingredients used in cosmetics, such as fermented rice or soy filtrates. However, the unique combination of lichen, bacteria, and yeast in LSULF may offer different benefits. While many fermented ingredients are used for their hydrating and brightening properties, LSULF is recognized for its antioxidant, skin conditioning, and skin protecting functions.
Typically, you can find LSULF in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers and serums. Its antioxidant properties make it a valuable addition to products designed to protect the skin from environmental stressors, while its skin conditioning benefits can help to improve the texture and appearance of the skin.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Usnea Longissima Ferment Filtrate:
Antioxidant
As an antioxidant, Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Usnea Longissima Ferment Filtrate helps to protect the skin from damage caused by harmful free radicals. These free radicals are often a result of environmental stressors such as pollution and UV rays. By neutralizing these free radicals, this ingredient helps to maintain the health and vitality of the skin, preventing premature aging and promoting a youthful appearance.
Skin Conditioning
Another key benefit of Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Usnea Longissima Ferment Filtrate is its skin conditioning properties. This means it helps to make the skin feel smoother, softer, and more supple. It achieves this by enhancing the skin’s natural moisture barrier, preventing the loss of hydration and maintaining the skin’s natural balance. This can lead to an overall improvement in the texture and appearance of the skin.
Skin Protecting
This ingredient also serves as a skin protectant. It forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, shielding it from environmental aggressors like dirt, pollutants, and harsh weather conditions. This protective layer helps to keep the skin healthy and resilient, reducing the risk of skin irritation and sensitivity.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Usnea Longissima Ferment Filtrate. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, are not discussed in this article.
Safety Profile
Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Usnea Longissima Ferment Filtrate is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare and cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary and it may not be suitable for all skin types.
While it is generally well-tolerated, potential side effects of topical application of this ingredient may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently a lack of data on the safety of topically applied Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Usnea Longissima Ferment Filtrate during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Side effects or adverse reactions to this ingredient are not common, but it is always recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure no adverse reaction occurs.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was performed by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), as well as other various publicly available sources.
