Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate
Also known as: Saccharomyces cerevisiae ferment filtrate, SCFF, Yeast ferment filtrate, Yeast extract filtrate
Overview
Saccharomyces cerevisiae ferment filtrate (SCFF) is a liquid byproduct derived from the fermentation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast. It is rich in metabolites, peptides, and other bioactive compounds released during the fermentation process. SCFF is primarily utilized in cosmetics for its skin health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and support for the skin barrier. While it is also explored as a supplement for gut health and immune modulation, research in humans for oral supplementation is less extensive compared to its cosmetic applications. The filtrate contains beneficial compounds such as amino acids and polysaccharides but does not contain any viable yeast cells. Research maturity is moderate for topical use, with stronger evidence supporting its anti-inflammatory and skin barrier effects. Oral supplementation evidence is mainly based on animal models or indirect human studies, indicating a need for more robust human trials to confirm its efficacy and safety as a supplement.
Benefits
The primary benefits of Saccharomyces cerevisiae ferment filtrate (SCFF) are observed in topical applications. Clinical trials have demonstrated a significant reduction in skin redness, pore size, and facial roughness compared to baseline (p<0.01). These effects suggest that SCFF can improve skin texture and reduce inflammation. Secondary effects include anti-inflammatory properties, as shown in human skin models where SCFF reduced histamine-induced inflammation. Individuals with sensitive or inflamed skin may particularly benefit from topical applications. Animal models suggest that oral administration of SCFF can improve growth performance and ruminal fermentation in goats, with a large effect size for animal growth (SMD = 2.14; 95% CI: 1.40–2.89). However, these results are not directly translatable to humans, and more research is needed to determine the benefits of oral SCFF supplementation in humans. Topical improvements are typically observed within 1–4 weeks of consistent use.
How it works
Saccharomyces cerevisiae ferment filtrate (SCFF) exerts its effects through several biological pathways. Topically, it modulates skin inflammation, likely by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and histamine pathways, thereby reducing redness and irritation. It acts on skin immune cells and supports barrier function. Orally, animal studies suggest that SCFF enhances gut microbiota balance, increases volatile fatty acid production, and improves nutrient absorption. While the specific molecular targets are not fully elucidated, it likely involves modulation of immune and inflammatory signaling pathways. Topically applied SCFF is not absorbed systemically, acting locally on the skin. The absorption and bioavailability of oral SCFF in humans are currently unknown, requiring further investigation to understand its systemic effects.
Side effects
Saccharomyces cerevisiae ferment filtrate (SCFF) is generally considered safe for topical and oral use in animals, but human oral safety data is limited. No common, uncommon, or rare side effects have been reported in available clinical studies. There are no documented drug interactions or contraindications associated with SCFF. Special population considerations, such as use during pregnancy, lactation, or in pediatric populations, lack specific warnings due to limited data. However, caution is advised until more comprehensive safety data becomes available. While topical use up to 5% is considered safe, the maximum safe dose for oral consumption in humans has not been determined. Overall, SCFF appears to have a favorable safety profile, but further research is needed to confirm its safety and tolerability, especially for oral supplementation in humans.
Dosage
For topical applications, a concentration of 3–4% Saccharomyces cerevisiae ferment filtrate (SCFF) in cosmetic formulations is typically used. This dosage has been shown to be effective in reducing skin redness and improving skin texture in clinical studies. There is no established minimum effective dose, optimal dosage range, or maximum safe dose for oral use in humans due to a lack of human data. Topical applications are generally applied once or twice daily as directed in cosmetic products. SCFF is commonly found in serums and creams for topical use. Since topical SCFF acts locally, absorption factors are not a significant consideration. There are no identified required cofactors for SCFF. Due to the limited human data, oral supplementation with SCFF is not currently recommended.
FAQs
Is Saccharomyces cerevisiae ferment filtrate safe for all skin types?
Topical application is generally safe for most skin types and may be particularly beneficial for sensitive or inflamed skin. However, as with any skincare ingredient, it's recommended to perform a patch test before widespread use.
Can Saccharomyces cerevisiae ferment filtrate be taken orally?
Oral supplementation is not recommended for humans due to a lack of sufficient evidence supporting its benefits and safety. Most research on oral SCFF is limited to animal studies.
What are the expected results from using Saccharomyces cerevisiae ferment filtrate topically?
Topical use can lead to improved skin redness, texture, and barrier function within a few weeks. Clinical studies have shown significant reductions in skin redness and roughness with consistent use.
Is Saccharomyces cerevisiae ferment filtrate a probiotic?
No, it is not a probiotic. It contains no live yeast. The benefits are derived from the bioactive metabolites produced during the fermentation process, such as peptides and amino acids.
How should topical Saccharomyces cerevisiae ferment filtrate be used?
Use as directed in cosmetic products, typically applied once or twice daily. It is commonly found in serums and creams designed to improve skin texture and reduce inflammation.
Research Sources
- http://www.surgicalcosmetic.org.br/details/987/en-US/systematic-review-of-cosmetic-benefit-of-topical-application-of-ferment-filtrate – This systematic review examined the cosmetic benefits of topical application of ferment filtrate. The review included RCTs with at least 30 participants per group and found significant reductions in skin redness, pore size, and roughness, demonstrating anti-inflammatory effects. Some studies had small sample sizes, and daily skin texture fluctuations were noted, but overall, the quality assessment was moderate to high.
- https://www.appliedanimalscience.org/article/S1080-7446(16)00023-1/pdf – This meta-analysis investigated the effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae on growth performance in goats. The analysis of 16 studies found improved average daily gain, increased blood glucose, WBC, and ruminal fermentation. While the study used a random-effects model, the findings are limited to animal data and may not be directly applicable to humans.
- https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/TR_Yeast_122023.pdf – This safety review assessed the safety of yeast-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. The review found no mutagenicity or significant toxicity at relevant doses in in vitro and animal studies. However, the review noted limited human oral safety data, indicating a need for further research in this area.
- https://fi-admin.bvsalud.org/document/view/5ce75 – This resource provides information on the cosmetic benefits of topical application of ferment filtrate. It highlights the reduction in skin redness and roughness observed in clinical trials. The study suggests that ferment filtrate can improve skin texture and reduce inflammation, making it a valuable ingredient in cosmetic formulations.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36923902/ – This study likely investigates the effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae ferment filtrate, potentially focusing on its impact on skin health or gut microbiota. Further details would be needed to provide a more comprehensive summary, but PubMed is a reliable source for scientific research.
Supplements Containing Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate
Recommended Articles

Top Digestive Health Ingredients
Dietary fiber, probiotics, and natural ingredients like ginger and peppermint oil are essential for improving digestive health.

Probiotics & Antibiotic Diarrhea: Meta-Analysis Insights
Meta-analyses show strong support for probiotics in reducing the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, especially with certain strains.

Best Time to Take Probiotics with Antibiotics
Wait 2-3 hours after antibiotics to take probiotics to avoid reducing their effectiveness.

Probiotics for Antibiotic Diarrhea: Effectiveness & Strains
Probiotics, particularly Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii, are effective in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea in adults.