Yeast Extract
A nutrient-rich extract of yeast, with amino acids, B vitamins and sugars, that conditions and hydrates; a staple of Biologique Recherche formulas.
yeast extract, faex extract, faex, hydrolysed yeast protein, hydrolyzed yeast protein, Saccharomyces cerevisiae extract, Saccharomyces ferment filtrate, Saccharomyces lysate extract, yeast ferment, brewer's yeast, baker's yeast
Dull skin · Texture & large pores · Blemish-prone skin · Dry & dehydrated skin
What it does
Yeast extract, often listed as faex extract, is made from yeast cells, usually baker's or brewer's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), and brings amino acids, B vitamins, minerals and sugars that condition and hydrate the skin. Hydrolysed yeast protein, a related form broken down into smaller peptides and amino acids, is used to restore moisture to the skin’s surface, without leaving any oily residue. Biologique Recherche uses yeast across its range, from Masque Vivant, which leads its formula with yeast extract, to Lotion P50V and Crème Splendide.
How it works
Used in both skin and hair care, yeast ingredients can carry beta-glucan, a soothing sugar from the yeast cell wall, which helps moisturise and comfort the skin. Their proteins and sugars act as humectants and light film-formers, so they suit dry and dehydrated skin. Yeast ferments are also used to support a balanced skin microbiome, as in Masque Vivant, 'formulated with yeasts to feed and strengthen the microbiome', though research on what topical ferments do is still at an early stage.
MG says
For congested, dull skin with enlarged-looking pores, Biologique Recherche's Masque Vivant, built on yeast extract with clays and AHAs, is the one to reach for once or twice a week. Leave it on for 15 minutes, then rinse with tepid water and a face cloth before your serums and creams.
Cautions
Yeast extracts are generally well tolerated. If you have a known yeast allergy, check the ingredient list and patch test first. Masks that pair yeast with clays and AHAs, such as Masque Vivant, can leave skin more sensitive to the sun, so wear SPF daily.
