Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate: A Little-Known Must-Try Ingredient

Fermented ingredients are now one of the newest skincare trends and seated at the table of buzzworthy goodies next to hyaluronic acid and vitamin C is galactomyces ferment filtrate (or GFF for short), a yeast derivative that’s taking the beauty world by storm. 

This miraculous ingredient is seriously underrated when it comes to indulgent pampering. With an ultra-hydrating nature, this fermented goodie has been celebrated as an old natural remedy for centuries that can put modern products to shame. Read on if you're curious about the galactomyces skin benefits.

What is galactomyces?

Galactomyces ferment filtrate,  also known as Pitera or GFF, is a special type of fermented liquid derived from galactomyces, a yeast fungus commonly used in the brewing of beer, wine, and Japanese sake. 

As trendsetters in the beauty world, Asians have started including GFF in their skincare products thanks to its benefits. Galactomyces contains vitamins, minerals, and other amazing compounds. When used topically, this ingredient helps to brighten skin tone, minimize pores and wrinkles, reduce inflammation, and create a more elastic complexion. That’s why galactomyces skincare has become a trend!

Nowadays, galactomyces ferment filtrate can be found in many products such as moisturizers and serums because of its ability to brighten, moisturize, and balance out our skin.

Pros & Cons of using galactomyces skincare

Pros

• An Korean study has demonstrated that galactomyces reduces pore size and gets rid of blackheads
• Reduces excessive oil production for a shine-free complexion
• The vitamins and minerals in the fermented extract help to strengthen the skin barrier, helping it retain more moisture. 
• Evens out the skin tone by reducing discolorations such as dark spots and age spots
• The high concentration of antioxidants in galactomyces can protect the skin from environmental factors and prevent premature aging

Cons

• It can cause even more acne breakouts in those that suffer from fungal acne
• Though GFF is generally safe, it could cause allergic reactions in certain people. Always do a patch test before applying galactomyces skincare products on your face

Ingredients specifications

Clean

Galactomyces ferment filtrate is extracted from a non-GMO sake fungus and it’s not synthetic or composed of harsh chemicals, so it’s considered a clean skincare ingredient.

Vegan

GFF comes from the yeast fungus used to make sake and doesn’t contain any animal source or byproduct, so it’s vegan-friendly. 

Pregnancy safe

Galactomyces ferment filtrate is generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, we always recommend consulting with your doctor before including any new skincare products in your routine

Breastfeeding safe

Same as with pregnancy, GFF is considered generally safe during breastfeeding because it doesn’t penetrate the bloodstream. However, we always recommend consulting with your doctor before including any new skincare products in your routine. 

Active ingredient

Galactomyces is an active ingredient used in skincare products thanks to its amazing benefits. 

Comedogenic

Galactomyces is non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores. However, since it’s fungus-derived, it can worsen fungal acne, so it’s not recommended for those with acne-prone skin

EWG (Environment Working Group) Score 

Galactomyces has a score of “1” on the EWG scale, meaning that it has a low possibility of causing allergies or being toxic to the skin. 

CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) Rating: Unknown

The CIR hasn’t reviewed galactomyces ferment filtrate yet. 

PRECAUTIONS: Things to know before using this ingredient 

When to use galactomyces for skin?

Galactomyces for skin can be used daily during your morning and nighttime routines. However, always check the product label and read the how-to-use instructions

What skin type is galactomyces good for?

The galactomyces skin benefits can be enjoyed by almost all skin types, however, it’s not recommended for those with acne-prone skin since it could worsen acne if the condition is caused by a fungus. Nonetheless, it can reduce oil production in oily skin, strengthen the skin barrier for those with dry and sensitive skin, treat aging signs in mature skin, even out the skin tone, and reduce pore size in all skin types. 

What you can’t mix with galactomyces?

Galactomyces doesn’t react negatively to other skincare ingredients. In fact, it makes a great mix when paired with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, and rose extract. 

Top Picks

Bestsellers

1. Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence
2. Rose Galactomyces Synergy Serum
3. Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum
4. Rose Water Galactomyces Toner
5. Rose Galactomyces Silky Tone-Up Cream 40ml

Products that contain galactomyces that are worth the price

1. Stop And Smell The Roses - 3-Step Brightening Kit

FAQ’s

Can I use vitamin C with galactomyces?

Using vitamin C and galactomyces together can result in a powerful mix for improving your skin, with effects such as fading of pigmentation, evening out the skin tone and texture, and even boosting collagen production. However, like any power couple, you have to be sure to use these two goodies correctly, or else you won't get their full potential. SomeByMi’s GALACTOMYCES PURE VITAMIN C GLOW SERUM contains just the perfect amount of both to deliver their benefits

Can galactomyces skincare lighten the skin?

Galactomyces can decrease melanin production, which is the pigment that causes dark spots to appear. By decreasing the amount of melanin, this ingredient can lighten and even out the complexion

Is galactomyces good for anti-aging?

Yes! Studies have suggested that this fermented yeast can help with wrinkles, firmness, and moisture retention in the skin due to its abundance of essential nutrients such as Vitamin B2, Niacin, and amino acids. 

Can galactomyces cause fungal acne?

While this is not a common occurrence, it does happen. Galactomyces, a type of yeast, can cause a type of acne commonly referred to as fungal acne. It presents similarly to regular types of acne and occurs when there is an overgrowth of yeast on the skin.

Tips & Tricks to include galactomyces in your skincare routine

• Galactomyces for skin can be found in different types of Asian skincare products, from toners and serums to masks and creams. It depends on you what product you want to use
• To brighten, smooth, reduce oil production, and shrink pore size, it’s important that you use products with galactomyces daily
• If you are fungal acne-prone, it’s better to stay away from this product
• Always conduct a patch test in the skin of your arms to rule out any skin allergies.