We’ve all been sold on the gut health benefits of fermented foods, including kimchi, miso and kombucha – but what about fermented skincare? Skincare brands have been using the process of fermentation and microorganisms like yeast to break down natural skincare ingredients into smaller size molecules so that they can be better absorbed through the skin’s barrier. Increasing the potency and bioavailability of skincare ingredients (how easily the body can assimilate them) supercharges their results for powerful, natural formulas that pack a punch.

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Many types of hyaluronic acid are too large in molecule size and, when applied, simply sit on the surface of the skin. By using fermentation, the molecule can be broken down and thus penetrate the skin’s surface up to ten times more effectively than before.

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An example of the impact fermentation can have in skincare is demonstrated by hydration hero, hyaluronic acid. Many types of HA are too large in molecule size and, when applied, simply sit on the surface of the skin. By using fermentation, the molecule can be broken down and thus penetrate the skin’s surface up to ten times more effectively than before.

Fermented skincare was spearheaded in the Korean beauty industry, generally taking the form of an essence, mist or toner applied to freshly cleansed skin before serums, moisturisers and oils.

Here are fifteen formulas to try, delivering brighter, stronger, more resilient skin.

Main image: Antipodes