What is Saccharomyces/Astragalus Membranaceus Root Ferment Extract?
Saccharomyces/Astragalus Membranaceus Root Ferment Extract, also known as Astragalus Ferment Extract, is a unique cosmetic ingredient derived from the roots of the Astragalus Membranaceus plant, a perennial plant native to China, Mongolia, and Korea. This plant is widely recognized in traditional Chinese medicine for its healing properties. The extract is produced through the fermentation process by the yeast, Saccharomyces. The fermentation process enhances the bioavailability of the plant’s beneficial compounds, making it more effective in skincare products.
The use of Saccharomyces/Astragalus Membranaceus Root Ferment Extract in cosmetics is a relatively recent development, inspired by the growing interest in natural and botanical ingredients in skincare. The extract is rich in antioxidants, including flavonoids and polysaccharides, which are known for their skin-protecting and conditioning properties.
The production of Saccharomyces/Astragalus Membranaceus Root Ferment Extract involves fermenting the roots of the Astragalus Membranaceus plant with the Saccharomyces yeast. This process breaks down the plant material and releases its beneficial compounds, resulting in a potent extract that is easily absorbed by the skin.
While there are other antioxidant and skin conditioning ingredients available, Saccharomyces/Astragalus Membranaceus Root Ferment Extract stands out due to its unique source and fermentation process. This process not only enhances the bioavailability of the plant’s beneficial compounds but also adds additional skin-nourishing benefits from the yeast.
Saccharomyces/Astragalus Membranaceus Root Ferment Extract is typically found in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers, serums, and masks. Its antioxidant, skin conditioning, and skin protecting properties make it a valuable addition to these products, helping to nourish, protect, and improve the overall health and appearance of the skin.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Saccharomyces/Astragalus Membranaceus Root Ferment Extract:
Antioxidant Properties
One of the primary benefits of Saccharomyces/Astragalus Membranaceus Root Ferment Extract is its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. In the context of skincare, this means that this ingredient can help protect your skin from the damaging effects of environmental stressors like pollution and UV radiation, which can lead to premature aging. It does this by neutralizing the harmful free radicals that these stressors produce in your skin.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Saccharomyces/Astragalus Membranaceus Root Ferment Extract is skin conditioning. This means that it helps to make the skin feel smoother, softer and more supple. It achieves this by enhancing the appearance and feel of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness. This makes it a valuable ingredient in products aimed at improving skin texture and hydration.
Skin Protecting
Lastly, Saccharomyces/Astragalus Membranaceus Root Ferment Extract is recognized for its skin protecting function. This refers to its ability to form a barrier on the skin’s surface, which helps to prevent moisture loss and protect the skin from external aggressors. This can help to maintain the skin’s overall health and appearance, making it a beneficial addition to a variety of skincare products.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Saccharomyces/Astragalus Membranaceus Root Ferment Extract. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions, but these are the primary benefits that you can expect when this ingredient is included in your skincare products.
Safety Profile
Saccharomyces/Astragalus Membranaceus Root Ferment Extract is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare and cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for all skin types and there is always a potential for allergic reactions.
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 insufficient data on the safety of topical use of Saccharomyces/Astragalus Membranaceus Root Ferment Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to this ingredient are not common, but it is always recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
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 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.
