Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate (Pitera)
A yeast-ferment filtrate, the Pitera in SK-II style essences, used at very high percentages for the appearance of a brighter, smoother-looking complexion. It is a ferment blend rich in amino acids, minerals, organic acids and vitamins rather than a single active, produced by fermenting a strain of Galactomyces (a yeast related to sake brewing) and filtering out the solids. The format popularized the modern essence step in Japanese and Korean routines, applied as a watery liquid before serums.
Studied for
- ·The appearance of a brighter, more refined-looking complexion
- ·The look of smoother, more even-toned skin
- ·The appearance of smaller-looking pores
- ·Hydration and surface conditioning support
How it’s thought to work
Studied for surface conditioning and the look of a smoother, more radiant complexion; the effect is credited to the combined amino acid, mineral and organic acid content of the ferment rather than one isolated compound. Much of the strongest data is brand-led and run on a specific proprietary ferment, which makes it hard to generalize across the many drugstore versions now sold under the same INCI name.
In a small trial, a serum with this ferment filtrate plus other actives was linked to a better look of lingering dark spots after 8 weeks.
The Effectiveness of Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, Dexpanthenol, and Centella Asiatica Combination Serum in the Treatment of Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation in Subjects with Skin of Color. Skinmed, 2021.
View on PubMed (PMID 33938432) ↗Questions
- Is drugstore galactomyces ferment filtrate the same as the famous prestige essence?
- It is the same named ingredient, but not necessarily the same ferment. The original essence uses a specific, proprietary strain and fermentation process, while budget versions use the generic Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate INCI, which can vary in concentration and quality between brands.
- How should I use a galactomyces essence?
- Most are designed as a watery first step after cleansing, patted or swept on before heavier serums and moisturizer, and are gentle enough for twice-daily use.