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About effective microorganisms

Types of effective microorganisms in the beauty industry

Effective microorganisms or EM are a mix of beneficial bacteria, yeasts, and molds that help improve soil and environmental health. These microorganisms have improved the quality and health of cosmetic products. They also boost the ability of the skin to heal and take care of itself.

Here are some of the most popular types of effective microorganisms:

  • Lactic acid bacteria

    Lactic acid bacteria are a type of fermented cosmetic product found in yogurt and some fermented foods. They produce lactic acid, which helps lower the skin's pH; hence, they will act as an exfoliant. They will also act as a natural moisturizer that helps keep the skin hydrated and supple.

  • Bacillus subtilis

    This is a beneficial strain of bacteria that produces enzymes and probiotics that help break down food sources for other bacteria. It helps create a balanced gut microbiome that will be important in skin health. When applied topically, this bacteria helps fight pathogens and bacteria responsible for skin diseases and infections.

  • Saccharomyces yeast

    Saccharomyces yeast is famous for producing probiotics and peptidoglycan. It is found in supplement drinks, yeast extracts, and some topically applied skincare EM products. It is also used in traditional therapies that help improve gut health and boost immunity. Topically it helps hydrate and improve skin elasticity and boost collagen production.

  • St. Mary's thistle

    I don't know why this herb is still called St. Mary's thistle. It is a flowering herb with numerous medicinal properties. It contains silymarin, an active antioxidant, and antimicrobial. This helps to protect the skin from harmful free radicals and environmental pollutants. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritation and reduce redness.

  • White clover

    It is a flowering herb with high concentrations of coumarins and flavonoids, providing antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits. It can be applied topically to help protect the skin, boost its natural defense against pathological microbes, inhibiting oxidative stress, and promoting healthier-looking skin.

How the beauty industry uses effective microorganisms

The beauty industry has also seen the rise of the use of effective microorganisms in skin care and cosmetic products. Known for their ability to generate beneficial and effective compounds, these microorganisms are presently being utilized with a focus on naturalness, sustainability, and skin health. Here is how:

  • Fermented ingredients for skin care

    Fermented cosmetic products are made using the method of saponification, where microorganisms like yeast, bacteria, and molds are used to ferment raw materials to form skin care ingredients. Fermented skin care has been found to improve the absorption of nutrients into the skin, boost antioxidants, and enhance hydration. For instance, fermented rice water, coconut water, and lacrosse made from fermented plant extracts are used to make potent toners, essences, and serums that all help in revitalizing the skin.

  • Probiotics

    Probiotics are living microorganisms that users apply to their skin care products with the hope that they will colonize the skin microbiome (the community of microorganisms living on the skin). These help to balance the skin's natural flora, enhance its immune system, and prevent and treat conditions like acne, eczema, and dermatitis. Yogurt, milk, and other probiotic masks and creams are popular in many Asian beauty regimes.

  • Prebiotics

    Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that support and stimulate the growth of skin and gut microorganisms. They are often presented in the form of fibers and carbohydrates, such as inulin and fructooligosaccharides. The role of prebiotics in skin care is to enhance and balance the skin microbiome. They are typically used with probiotics to create skin care products that help enhance and balance the skin microbiome.

  • Microbial enzymes

    Effective microorganisms are known to produce a variety of bioactive compounds when used in the fermentation process. These include peptides, enzymes, acids, and polysaccharides. The latter has been found useful in skin care. For example, lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid produced by lactic acid bacteria, is used in chemical peels for its exfoliating properties and in hydrators for its moisturizing benefits. Other enzymes produced by microorganisms, like papain from papaya and bromelain from pineapple, are used in exfoliating masks and scrubs.

  • Yeast extracts

    Yeast extracts have been found useful in anti-aging and skin rejuvenation products. Yeast is a type of microorganism that is used in the fermentation process. When added to cosmetic products, it helps stimulate cellular renewal, enhance skin elasticity, and improve hydration levels. Yeast extracts are a rich source of vitamins, amino acids, and minerals that nourish the skin.

Benefits of effective microorganisms in beauty products

Effective microorganisms have numerous benefits in beauty products, especially when used with fermentation processes. They create new bioactive compounds and improve the quality, safety, efficacy, and sustainability of cosmetic products. Here are the advantages:

  • Improved potency and efficacy

    The fermentation process of EM helps to break down the active ingredients into smaller molecules. This enhances their absorption rate into the skin, making them more effective. For example, fermented aloe vera, coconut water, rice water, and other plant extracts increase skin hydration and improve blood circulation and that of nutrients, helping the skin to heal faster.

  • Enhanced bioavailability

    The products of fermentation help convert the parent molecules into simpler forms that the skin can easily utilize. Take, for instance, lactic acid, a metabolite of lactic acid bacteria during fermentation. It is an alpha-hydroxy acid used in chemical peels. It helps break down dead skin cells, improving cell turnover and making the skin more radiant. Other metabolites like vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants are bioavailable and are already in forms usable by the skin.

  • Natural preservation

    Fermented cosmetics have high concentrations of bioactive compounds such as organic acids, alcohol, and antibacterial peptides. These confer antimicrobial properties and help inhibit pathogens and harmful microbes in cosmetics like bacteria, yeast, and mold. This makes fermented skin care products self-stabilizing and helps extend their shelf life without artificial preservatives. For example, fermented essence, serums, and creams have been found to last on average six months longer than non-fermented counterparts.

  • Sustainability

    All the ingredients used in the production of EM come from natural sources. Thus, they are environmentally friendly. For example, natural EM serum is obtained from natural sources like plant materials, fruits, and grains, and they do not require chemicals in their production. They are also used to create high-value skin care products that reduce cosmetic waste as they use by-products like plant residues and food wastes in producing them. This not only increases the skin care line's value but also helps minimize waste and lower the carbon footprint.

  • Improved texture and sensory experience

    Fermentation modifies the texture and sensory properties of cosmetic products, making them more appealing to the user. It enhances odor, viscosity, and flavor. This increases the aesthetic properties of cosmetics and makes them more appealing to the user. For example, fermented extracts have been found to enhance the viscosity of lotions, making them more emollient and easier to apply.

  • Rich in bioactive compounds

    During fermentation, the microorganisms break down the parent compounds and transform them into simpler forms. These include active metabolites such as peptides, vitamins, amino acids, and organic acids. All these are bioactive compounds with numerous health benefits for the skin. Take, for instance, hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring polymer in the body. It is synthesized by strep bacteria through fermentation. It helps hydrate the skin by retaining skin moisture.

Things to consider when buying effective microorganism products

Many buyers get overwhelmed when buying bulk fermented skincare products. The market is already saturated with dozens of brands, each claiming to offer the best all-natural product. To make an informed buying decision, one must consider various factors like quality, sustainability, and ethical sourcing.

  • Ingredient quality and sourcing

    To ensure the product is ethically sourced and contains high-quality ingredients, buyers should invest in EM skincare with organic, non-GMO, and natural ingredients. They should also avoid products containing artificial fragrances, synthetic chemicals, and preservatives. These are not only harmful to the skin but to the environment as well.

  • Type of fermentation

    There are different types of fermentation used in skincare. Each type has its benefits. For instance, lacto-fermentation uses lactobacillus bacteria, which produces lactic acid during fermentation. It is an alpha-hydroxy acid with exfoliating and moisturizing properties. Other fermentations also added enzymes and antioxidants to the extract. Buyers should consider the type of fermentation used in the product to ensure it is well-suited for the target market's skin type and needs.

  • Microorganism strains

    Different strains of microorganisms used for fermentation produce varying benefits and bioactive compounds. For instance, black yeast enhances skin immunity and protects it from environmental aggressors. At the same time, brewers yeast improves blood circulation and skin cell turnover rate. Thus, when buying in bulk, one should consider the specific strains of microorganisms used in the products and their potential benefits for the skin. This will help them choose the most effective products for their customers.

  • Product effectiveness and safety

    Buyers should seek clinical or third-party testing to validate efficacy and safety claims before investing in bulk. They should look for what the product contains and the benefits the manufacturer claims it offers. Get skincare that contains potent active extracts such as organic acids, antioxidants, and vitamins. These are effective in improving and retarding skin problems. One should also consider the target market's skin type and needs. What works well for oily skin may not be suitable for dry skin. Safety is also paramount. Avoid products with potential carcinogen, irritant, or neurotoxin content.

  • Brand transparency and ethics

    Work with brands that are honest and transparent about their sourcing, manufacturing, and testing practices. They should openly support sustainability and have a clear and concise environmental stance. They should minimize waste, use biodegradable and recyclable packaging, and leave a low carbon footprint. To further enhance the brand's reputation and cosmetic's value, seek brands that practice fair trade, support the local community, and have the empowerment of women.

  • Packaging and product presentation

    Skincare products in jars, bottles, and tubs have their own advantages and disadvantages. How they look affects how buyers perceive the product's value. Since skincare is a crowded market, how the product is packaged will help it stand out in the competitive retail shelf. Therefore, when buying in bulk, pay attention to the packaging design and quality to ensure the products are visually appealing to the potential customers.

Q&A

Q1. How to store effective microorganism products?

Skincare products containing effective microorganisms are great for improving and protecting the health and appearance of the skin. They help boost the skin and gut microbiomes for optimal health. These products will contain living microorganisms, which are sensitive to light, heat, and humidity. Thus, users should store them in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Most of them, like creams and serums, should be kept in the refrigerator to prolong the viability and effectiveness of probiotics and other heat-sensitive ingredients.

Q2. How to apply EM products properly?

It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using EM products. For best results, apply EM serums, essences, and creams to clean, damp skin. This helps them penetrate the skin better. To boost absorption, gently massage or pat the products into the skin. One should allow the products to sit for a minute or two before applying other products or makeup.

Q3. Are effective microorganisms safe for all skin types?

Yes, effective microorganisms are generally safe for all skin types. However, it is important to consider the specific type of fermentation and microorganisms used in the product when buying in bulk. For instance, some strains of probiotics may be too strong for sensitive skin. They are used primarily for acne and rosacea. For sensitive skin, look for products containing lactobacillus and bifidobacterium. They are gentle and soothing. When buying EM skincare in bulk, ask for the sample first. This allows one to test the product on their skin or that of a loved one before investing in bulk quantities.

Q4. How long will it take for EM products to start working?

Effects of E.M. products vary depending on the type of product one is using and its active ingredients, skin type, and lifestyle. Products like cleansers, masks, and exfoliators provide instant results like cleansing and exfoliating the skin. However, products like serums and moisturizers take longer to show results. These products hydrate the skin and improve its elasticity. Consistent use of EM skincare products and moisturizers will keep the skin hydrated and healthier. One should pair the EM moisturizer with serums to enhance their effectiveness.

Q5. Can multiple EM products be used together?

Yes, more than one EM product can be used together. In fact, this enhances their effectiveness. For best results, apply the products in order of consistency and thickness. Start with essences and serums and finish with creams and moisturizers. This improves their penetration and creates a powerful hydration stack that leaves the skin fully hydrated.