Cosmetics · Fermented ingredients
Sake Extract
日本酒エキス (Nihonshu ekisu)
Also known as: Sake Ferment, Nihonshu Extract
At a glance
| Category | Cosmetics |
|---|---|
| INCI name | Sake Extract / Saccharomyces Ferment Extract |
| Japanese labeling name | 日本酒 |
| Common Japanese notations | 日本酒エキス, 清酒エキス |
| Origin | Fermented (brewed sake, processed for cosmetic use) |
| Typical functions | Skin conditioning, Moisturizing |
| Common product categories | Face toners and essences, Sheet masks, Body lotions |
| Regulatory status in Japan | Cosmetic ingredient listed in the JSCI labeling name dictionary. Sake as a beverage is separately regulated under the Liquor Tax Law and food safety law. |
Sake extract is a cosmetic-grade ingredient derived from brewed Japanese rice wine. In contrast to sake lees (酒粕) — the solid residue — sake extract is prepared from the clear liquid product, concentrating amino acids and secondary fermentation metabolites produced during the dual-fermentation of rice with koji and yeast.
What it is
Sake extract is produced from brewed sake (Japanese rice wine) through processes that typically include filtration and standardization. The final ingredient contains amino acids, peptides, organic acids, and trace secondary metabolites from the Aspergillus oryzae / Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation pair.
Cosmetic-grade sake extract is distinct from drinkable sake and is not marketed for consumption; it is prepared and supplied specifically for cosmetic applications.
Typical uses in Japanese products
In cosmetics, sake extract appears in face toners, essences, sheet masks, and body lotions. It is often paired with sake lees extract, rice bran extract, and other rice-family ingredients in "wa-hakkō" (Japanese fermentation) product narratives.
Regulatory classification in Japan
Cosmetic use is permitted under the JSCI dictionary.
Regulatory classification in other markets
| EU | Sake-derived fermentation extracts are listed in CosIng under various fermentation-filtrate INCI names. Permitted for cosmetic use. |
|---|---|
| USA | Used in finished cosmetic products. |
| China | Permitted per IECIC listings (preparation-dependent). |
| Korea | Permitted under KFDA / MFDS. |
Example products
Example finished products will be added after each product's current full ingredient list has been verified.
All brand names and product names referenced anywhere on this site are the property of their respective owners. Example entries are provided for informational purposes only and do not imply endorsement.
Related ingredients
References
- JSCI labeling name directory — related sake-derived entries
- Brewing Society of Japan — sake fermentation overview
Last updated: 2026-04-22. Ingredient entries are reviewed at least annually against current regulatory listings.