WHAT IS FERMENTATION?
Fermentation is the process of breaking down an organic substance with the help of an enzyme. Bacteria or yeasts are most often used for this purpose. These fungi and bacteria trigger the fermentation process through the enzymes present in the actual food / drink. Do you like kefir, yogurt or pickles? Well, they are all made just like that. Not the most appetizing to think about, but the end result is a delicacy that has been proven to restore the gut flora and has a healing effect on digestion.
IT WAS A COINCIDENCE
In Asia they realized soon enough that the molecules that were activated during fermentation also had a fantastic effect on the skin. By a simple coincidence, they discovered in a Japanese tailor-made factory that the hands of older workers remained remarkably soft and youthful. It soon became clear that it was because their hands were in constant contact with the fermenting sake. The research team of the renowned SK-II brand started working hard, and in 1980 it discovered the fantastic key ingredient: the ingredient pitera was a fermentation by-product of vitamins, amino acids, minerals and organic acids that rejuvenated workers’ skin.
90% of their most famous product, Facial Treatment Essence, is also made from this unique ingredient. Over time, more and more Asian – and now European – companies have taken advantage of this “discovery” and started spraying different herbs to produce special cosmetics that have such an unmatched effect on the skin.
WHY IS IT GOOD FOR YOUR SKIN?
By fermentation, the efficiency of the active ingredients in the products is practically increased. Such cosmetics contain extremely tiny microorganisms that are more easily and deeply absorbed into the skin than conventional creams. Because fermentation is a natural process and is without preservatives, it is a very good alternative to producing pure, chemical-free products. Besides that:
- They have a high sugar and fruit acid content, so they super-hydrating to the skin that is prone to dehydration.
- Reduce redness and irritation.
- The amino acids in them tighten and elasticize the skin. And antioxidants protect against harmful free radicals and UV radiation.
- They have a mild exfoliating effect to help diminish pigmentation blemishes, dark spots and uneven complexion, and enhance skin glow.
- They stimulate collagen production and stimulate skin regeneration, so they have an amazingly anti-wrinkle effect.
Below, I show you my personal favorite products with fermented ingredients. There are some of them (eg Aurelia, COSRX), which are already available in Hungary. Also, the list is not whole because I also love Lovely Day products, previously there was an Instagram post about them. 🙂
SHOP MY FAVES
Have a nice day & nice skin!
Much love,
Peonilla
The article was also published in the 05/2016 issue of the Hungarian Wellness Magazine.
Photo: Pinterest