What is Galactomyces & What Does it Do to Your Skin?
Korean skincare has bought new and unique ingredients to the forefront time and time again. From snail mucin to bee venom, there is nothing that has not been explored. It is not surprising to see a new name on the product and wonder how beneficial it is for the skin.
I am a curious head, and when I saw Galactomyces in so many different products, I dived into the internet for research. And here’s what I found out.
What is Galactomyces?
If you want the shorter answer, Galactomyces is a type of fungi. It might sound gross right now, but once you finish the article, you’ll be a fan. I promise.
Galactomyces was invented accidentally in a sake brewery situated in Japan. The cosmetic industry noticed that the baker’s hand were soft, smooth and wrinkle-free while their face evidently showed signs of ageing. That was the start of looking for Galactomyces.
They narrowed down their study to Aspergillus Oryzae which is a type of fungus used in the fermentation process in Japan.
After years of research and study, the mysterious ingredient was discovered, and Galactomyces became a prominent ingredient of the Korean skincare world.
What is GFF (Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate)?
According to Wikipedia Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate “is a nutrient-dense yeast and a byproduct of fermented sake.”
Fungus and yeast are not what you imagine to put on your face to see the desired result. However, it is not a surprising fact that yeast is used in many popular products, that we consume including bread, wine, soy sauce, vinegar, etc.
When the yeast is done fermenting, it leaves out a liquid which is called Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate(GFF).
This fermented yeast is used in many Korean skincare brands, including the very famous CosRx, some by mi, and many more.
Benefits for the skin
Now that you understand what galactomyces is and where it comes from, it is time to understand why the Korean skincare industry loves it so much.
Reducing the signs of ageing
This was the first advantage of Galactomyces that was accidentally discovered in the brewery. The magical ingredient reduces wrinkles and fine lines which lead to a younger, smoother and healthier skin.
Shrink pore size
There has been a study conducted in 2015, where Galactomyces have proved to reduce the pore size by 15.66%. Smaller the pore size, lesser are the chances to develop acne, pimples and other skin concerns. Moreover, smaller pore absorbs fewer impurities and give a look of younger skin.
Reduces the number of blackheads
The same study which was conducted in 2015 also stated that using Galactomyces based product leads to a 21.84% reduction in the number of blackheads. Now that’s a really smooth way to get rid of those pesky little black dots.
Reduces sebum (skin oil) production
We all love a glossy shiny skin, but it is annoying when the skin becomes oily. Having a proper oil to moisture ratio is a blessing, and galactomyces does exactly that. It controls sebum production and leads to less oily and smoother skin.
Brightens up uneven and tired skin
My favourite ingredient for a brighter skin tone was niacinamide and Vitamin C. However, Galactomyces is also extremely effective in enhancing the skin tone and brightening the tired dull skin. If you ever feel the [Continue Reading…]
