What is Rhizopus/Saccharomyces/Rice Lees Ferment Extract?
Rhizopus/Saccharomyces/Rice Lees Ferment Extract, also known as Rice Ferment, is a natural ingredient derived from the fermentation of rice lees by two types of microorganisms, Rhizopus and Saccharomyces. Rice lees, a by-product of sake (rice wine) production, is rich in amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. The fermentation process by Rhizopus and Saccharomyces enhances these beneficial properties, making it a valuable ingredient in cosmetics.
The use of fermented rice in skincare has a long history, particularly in East Asia. For centuries, women in Japan have used the leftover water from washing rice (rice lees) to cleanse their skin, attributing their smooth, youthful complexions to this simple ingredient. Modern science has since validated these claims, leading to the incorporation of Rhizopus/Saccharomyces/Rice Lees Ferment Extract in a variety of cosmetic products.
The production of Rhizopus/Saccharomyces/Rice Lees Ferment Extract involves a fermentation process. The rice lees are exposed to Rhizopus and Saccharomyces microorganisms, which break down the complex molecules in the rice lees into smaller, more easily absorbed compounds. The resulting extract is then filtered and incorporated into cosmetic formulations.
While there are other fermented ingredients used in cosmetics, such as fermented soy and fermented yeast extract, Rhizopus/Saccharomyces/Rice Lees Ferment Extract stands out due to its unique source and the specific microorganisms used in its fermentation. These factors contribute to its unique composition and beneficial properties.
Rhizopus/Saccharomyces/Rice Lees Ferment Extract is typically used in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers, serums, and masks. Its antioxidant, skin conditioning, and skin protecting properties make it a versatile ingredient that can enhance the overall performance of these products.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Rhizopus/Saccharomyces/Rice Lees Ferment Extract:
Antioxidant
As an antioxidant, Rhizopus/Saccharomyces/Rice Lees Ferment Extract plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful free radicals. These free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to the skin cells, leading to premature aging and skin diseases. The antioxidant properties of this ingredient neutralize these free radicals, thereby preventing them from causing harm. This means that products containing this extract can help maintain the skin’s youthful appearance and overall health.
Skin Conditioning
Rhizopus/Saccharomyces/Rice Lees Ferment Extract is also known for its skin conditioning properties. It helps to keep the skin hydrated, soft, and smooth. It achieves this by enhancing the skin’s ability to retain moisture, thereby preventing dryness and flakiness. This makes it an excellent ingredient in skincare products aimed at improving the skin’s texture and appearance.
Skin Protecting
Another significant benefit of Rhizopus/Saccharomyces/Rice Lees Ferment Extract is its skin-protecting function. It forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, shielding it from environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays. This protective barrier also helps to lock in moisture, further enhancing the skin’s hydration levels. Therefore, skincare products with this ingredient are beneficial for those living in harsh or polluted environments.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Rhizopus/Saccharomyces/Rice Lees Ferment Extract. 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 should be considered with caution.
Safety Profile
Rhizopus/Saccharomyces/Rice Lees Ferment Extract 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, some potential side effects of topical application may include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Allergic reactions in individuals with sensitivity to yeast or mold
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently limited data on the safety of Rhizopus/Saccharomyces/Rice Lees Ferment Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to this ingredient are not common, but as with any new skincare product, it is 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 conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources that include 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.
