What Are Fermented Oils And Why Are They In Your Skincare Products?

New and sometimes even bizarre trends are constantly being introduced to the world of skincare, with consumers jumping at the chance to see what new discoveries will do to their skin. From snail mucin and tomato slices to bee venom and even our own blood, skincare lovers will seriously try anything if they believe it'll have a positive effect on their complexion (via Hair Lavie) — and will go to even more drastic measures if it is said to have anti-aging properties.

In the latest and greatest skincare trends, it would appear that fermented oils are all the rage. Have no idea what that means? You're definitely not alone. In order to understand the concept, think of fermenting foods. According to BBC Good Food, fermented foods are some of the best kinds you can eat due to their probiotic bacteria and healthy enzymes, properties which are said to do wonders for your gut microbiome, digestive system, and immune system. Therefore, following the same logic, if fermented products are good for your insides, why not try them on your outsides, too?

Sources suggest that the benefits of fermented oils in skincare are dramatic. According to skincare expert Jennifer Norman per Byrdie, "When a product's label says 'fermented oil,' it means the product contains an oil that has undergone the process of having a specialized microorganism introduced in an anaerobic environment (without oxygen)." And indeed, the process itself isn't a new one, at all. It's been said to have been a practice within the world of beauty throughout the centuries. "People realize it's better to boost our skin's amazing natural ability to renew rather than overprocess it with irritating chemicals and devices that may cause damage," explains Rachel Behm, founder of Layers Beauty, via Byrdie. 

The fermentation process essentially boosts a product's existing natural ingredients and makes them more effective as well as making the ingredients easier and quicker to absorb. "The process of fermentation breaks down complex compounds into simple compounds, potentially allowing the ingredient to be more readily absorbed by the skin and therefore more effective," says Dr. Sejal Shah, a dermatologist and founder of SmarterSkin Dermatology (via The Zoe Report).

So which products with fermented oils should you opt for? The Zoe Report recommends quite a few, saying that it's hard to go wrong when it comes to fermented oils. Starting off, the Orveda Visibly Brightening & Skin Perfecting Masque is a seriously intense option for those of you interested in giving fermented oils a shot. The product mixes prebiotics, marine enzymes, and bio-fermented Kombucha black tea, which, according to the company, promises bright, glowy skin while minimizing visible pores and fine lines. Despite the reportedly amazing results, however, this particular product will set you back a whopping $299.

Due to the hype and excitement surrounding the advent of fermented oils in skincare, there are loads of products to choose from if you want to give the trend a try, all at different price brackets and in different formulations (masks, essences, oils, etc.). The best route is to simply try things out, figure out what works for your skin, and stay consistent once you find that holy grail product.

In the end, if fermentation can turn a grape into something as wonderful as wine, just imagine what it could do for your skin.