We’re not gonna lie. It seems like every week there’s a viral new skin care product or hack that will allegedly give us that celebrity glass skin we crave. But skin care does come down to science. And with knowledge comes power, so we’re dropping an up-and-coming skin care ingredient on you—galactomyces.
The ingredient’s name may sound intergalactic but according to dermatologist Dr. Aleksandra Brown, the ingredient is rooted in the Earth. “Galactomyces is a type of yeast,” she explains. “It is extracted from sake (Japanese rice wine), so it is not synthetic.” She continues to add that galactomyces “works well with other products and may even increase their effectiveness.” Typically, it’s called galactomyces ferment filtrate, and it’s used in essence, toner, or serum that’s usually applied at the beginning of a skincare routine.
Because it isn’t synthetic, “it’s considered a clean skincare ingredient,” Dr. Brown says. It’s one reason why galactomyces is gaining traction in the U.S., but it’s already very popular in a lot of Asian skincare products. Since it’s still a newer ingredient, she admits that “the mechanism of action of galactomyces ferment filtrate is generally unknown.” But it still has beneficial properties for the skin, and there are currently studies underway “proposing a mechanism of action contributing to those benefits.”
Below, Dr. Brown gives us the 411 on the four beneficial beauty properties of galactomyces.
If you’re looking for that glow, galactomyces can help. “It brightens the skin by decreasing melanin production,” Dr. Brown explains. “This is especially the case when it is combined with vitamin C.”
2. The fountain of youth … kinda.
Unfortunately, there’s no miracle ingredient (yet) that’s been proven to turn back time, but galactomyces “is believed to have anti-aging properties, due to its ability to increase collagen and elastin production,” she notes.
Stress never looks good on anyone, and we double down on that statement when it comes to skin stress. Luckily, galactomyces has antioxidant properties that “dampen the oxidative stress and decrease free radical formation created by UV radiation,” Dr. Brown says.
We would never defame the beloved hyaluronic acid, but galactomyces is a 4-in-1 ingredient that does it all, including hydration. “It retains moisture, reduces dryness, and contains anti-inflammatory properties,” she explains.
In even better news, Dr. Brown says that galactomyces is suitable for all skin colors, and it’s even safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. She adds a word of caution for “those prone to pityrosporum folliculitis, aka ‘fungal acne.’” There’s a chance galactomyces can worsen the condition, so it’s best to test products first before committing.
Below are some of the galactomyces products we’re gushing over.
Galactomy Enzyme Peeling Gel
Price: $12
Ma:nyo
Safe for sensitive skin, this skin peel gently exfoliates, soothes, and helps form healthy skin.
Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence
Price: $24
COSRX
Formulated with 95% galactomyces ferment filtrate, this product gives 100% when it comes to brightening and hydrating.
Rose Galactomyces Synergy Serum
Price: $18
iUNIK
Say yes to this serum that moisturizes, lifts, brightens, controls sebum production, and refines pores.
Fermentation Eye Cream
Price: $27
Benton
The eyes are the window to the soul, so keep them looking youthful with this anti-aging cream that lists galactomyces ferment filtrate as its first ingredient.
Galactomyces Ampoule Mask
Price: $25
TIRTIR
A sheet mask a day keeps the Botox needle away. Kidding! But these will replenish and rejuvenate your skin.
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The content provided in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice and consultation, including professional medical advice and consultation; it is provided with the understanding that Poosh, LLC (“Poosh”) is not engaged in the provision or rendering of medical advice or services. The opinions and content included in the article are the views of the interviewee only, and Poosh does not endorse or recommend any such content or information, or any product or service mentioned in the article. You understand and agree that Poosh shall not be liable for any claim, loss, or damage arising out of the use of, or reliance upon any content or information in the article.
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