Soybean for Skin: What It Is, Benefits, and How It Works

Do you notice a faint dullness around fine lines in the mirror, a skin condition that wavers as UV exposure and environmental stress accumulate, and a texture that just won't settle smoothly? When facing these concerns, "anti-aging," "tone correction," and "antioxidant care" naturally come to mind. Soybean (Glycine max / Glycine soja) is a grain-derived plant active that carries the isoflavones genistein and daidzein along with saponins, tocopherols, and protease inhibitors (BBI and STI). Built on the food heritage of East Asia, it is an ingredient for which multi-layered mechanistic research in the cosmetics field has steadily accumulated. [1][2][3]

While Soybean has a rich body of research in the fields of overall health and nutrition, how it works in cosmetics may differ from its dietary intake. For those concerned about fine lines, texture, and a sense of firmness, those looking to correct tone in UV-heavy environments, or those who wish to choose cosmetics based on ingredients, we explore Soybean from the perspective of a cosmetic ingredient and introduce how it can be incorporated into your skincare routine.

Soybean at a Glance

Category	Key Summary	Check Point
Ingredient Name	Soybean (Glycine Soja Seed Extract / Glycine Max Seed Extract / Soybean Extract)	Labeled as Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein, Glycine Soja Germ Extract, Hydrolyzed Soybean Extract, and similar forms [6][7]
Ingredient Classification	Plant-derived comprehensive extract (a complex of isoflavones, saponins, protein, and lipids)	A multi-component active isolated from the seeds of a plant in the legume family (Fabaceae), classified for skin-conditioning and antioxidant functions [6][7]
Source	Active components concentrated through solvent extraction or fermentation from soybean seeds (Glycine max / Glycine soja)	Seed pressing and solvent extraction are common, and fermentation processes generate new active components such as daidzein-derived ODI [4][6][10]
Expected Skin Benefits	Support for fine-line care, a sense of surface hydration, smoother texture, support for tone correction, and conditioning after environmental stress	Gradual perception through consistent use rather than immediate change
Functions in Research	Antioxidant and UVB photoprotection, support for collagen synthesis (TGF-β, TIMP) and inhibition of MMP-1, and inhibition of PAR-2-mediated melanosome transfer [1][2][5]	Based on medical and experimental results; cosmetic results vary by individual
Suitable Skin Types	Skin concerned about fine lines and roughness, skin that wavers with environmental stress, skin with accumulated dullness, skin needing texture correction	Consultation with a specialist is recommended for specific skin conditions
Precautions	Given the nature of plant extracts, rare reports of irritation or sensitivity are possible; those with a history of soy allergy should take care [6][7]	Check the full ingredient list; a patch test is recommended for first-time use

What is Soybean?

Soybean (Glycine max) is the seed of a plant in the legume family (Fabaceae), and on cosmetic ingredient lists, it typically appears as Glycine Soja Seed Extract, Glycine Max Seed Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein, Hydrolyzed Soybean Extract, and Glycine Soja Germ Extract. [6][7] Soybean seeds contain plant protein (about 35–40%) and lipids, vitamin E (tocopherol), the polyphenol-class isoflavones (genistein, daidzein, glycitein) at about 1–3 mg/g, triterpenoid saponins (soyasaponin), and proteins such as protease inhibitors (BBI, Bowman–Birk Inhibitor; STI, Soybean Trypsin Inhibitor) [1][2][3]. Different benefits have been reported depending on the plant part and the extraction method, including antioxidant, collagen-related, radiant, and moisturizing.

Soybean is a heritage crop that has been used in East Asia as a food and traditional beauty material for about 5,000 years, and in Korea its active components have been utilized through a rich fermented food culture that includes soy milk, doenjang (soybean paste), and cheonggukjang (fermented soybeans). Full-scale research in the cosmetics field accelerated in the late 20th century as the wide-ranging bioactivity of isoflavones was elucidated. A 2001 study reported in the *Journal of Investigative Dermatology* on soybean extract's inhibition of PAR-2 (Protease-Activated Receptor 2)-mediated melanosome transfer showed that soybean-derived protease inhibitors (BBI, STI) can address pigmentation signaling from a different angle, and it has been frequently cited in the cosmetics field. [5] Subsequently, multi-layered research followed—photoaging support by genistein and daidzein [1][2], inhibition of melanin synthesis by ODI (Ortho-Dihydroxyisoflavone) derivatives generated through fermentation [4], and the discovery and breeding of native soybean varieties [10]—establishing soybean as a plant active supporting anti-aging, antioxidant, and radiant-related care.

Differences Between Soybean and Similar Ingredients

Even among soybean-derived ingredients, the activity profile varies depending on the plant part, extraction method, and processing stage, and soybean's own extract (centered on isoflavones, saponins, and BBI/STI proteins) is also clearly distinguished from generalized hydrolyzed plant proteins on the ingredient list.

Ingredient Name	Full Name	Characteristics	Molecular Weight/Form
Soybean Seed Extract	Glycine Soja Seed Extract	A solvent extract of soybean seeds; a comprehensive active carrying isoflavones, saponins, and BBI/STI [6]	Multi-component extract
Soy Protein	Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein	A purified soy protein raw material with skin- and hair-conditioning functions [7]	High-molecular-weight protein, water-soluble
Hydrolyzed Soy Protein	Hydrolyzed Soy Protein	A peptide mixture created by breaking down soy protein with enzymes or acid to lower the molecular weight; supports surface hydration and texture correction [7]	Low- to mid-molecular-weight peptides
Fermented Soybean Extract (ODI)	Fermented Soybean Extract / Ortho-Dihydroxyisoflavone	ODI derivatives generated by the bioconversion of daidzein during fermentation; support inhibition of melanin synthesis and antioxidant activity [4][10]	Low-molecular-weight polyphenol
Soy Saponin	Soyasaponin (Glycine Saponin)	Triterpenoid saponins abundant in soybean germ and seeds; reported for antioxidant activity and stimulation of HA synthesis [3]	Glycoside

Soybean Seed Extract is a comprehensive active that carries isoflavones, saponins, and protease inhibitors (BBI, STI) together to approach comprehensive mechanisms, while hydrolyzed soy protein is formulated as a peptide raw material with lowered molecular weight, focused on supporting surface hydration and texture correction. [6][7] When you want to address comprehensive care for anti-aging, antioxidant, and radiant support in a measured way, it is helpful to also look at the active-component profiles of Soybean Seed Extract and Fermented Soybean Extract. [1][4]

Benefits of Soybean

When discussing Soybean in cosmetics, the key point is "anti-aging and tone-correction support that harnesses plant isoflavones, saponins, and protease inhibitors." Based on the research accumulated in the medical and experimental fields, the benefits you can expect from cosmetics are summarized as follows.

1. Fine-Line Care and Support for a Sense of Firmness

When collagen breaks down with UV exposure and time, fine lines and rough texture tend to increase together. Genistein and daidzein, the representative components of soybean isoflavones, have been reported to raise mRNA expression of type I and type IV collagen, elastin, and fibrillin-1 in human skin fibroblasts and to support collagen synthesis by activating the TGF-β/Smad pathway. [1] At the same time, daidzein is reported to lower the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1, MMP-2) and to increase TIMP (Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases) proteins, reducing collagen breakdown. [1][2] In a 6-month randomized double-blind clinical study of 44 postmenopausal women, the group taking soy isoflavone protein showed a statistically significant reduction in fine-line severity and pigment intensity at the 16-week and 24-week time points [9], so it is often discussed as a plant active supporting fine-line care. However, in cosmetics it works primarily at the surface and the stratum corneum, so it is realistic to approach it as one part of skin conditioning rather than expecting deep changes equivalent to a medical procedure.

2. Antioxidant and Photoaging Support

When exposed to UV rays and fine dust, reactive oxygen species (ROS) increase, and skin condition tends to waver. Genistein and daidzein have been reported to significantly lower UVB-induced oxidative stress (H2O2 levels) [1], to suppress cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and DNA-damage-related signaling, and to preserve PCNA (Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen) expression. [1] A metabolite of daidzein is described as inhibiting protein kinase C (PKCα) to regulate MMP activity from a different angle [1], and is also reported to be involved in restoring the activity of endogenous antioxidant enzymes (SOD, catalase, glutathione peroxidase). [1] Soy saponin (Glycine Saponin) has likewise been reported to have strong antioxidant activity along with stimulating endogenous hyaluronic acid synthesis in fibroblasts [3], and it is being examined as a multiple mechanism for environmental-stress care and photoaging support.

3. Support for Tone Correction

When UV exposure is repeated, pigment can deposit unevenly and make the skin look dull. The protease inhibitors BBI (Bowman–Birk Inhibitor) and STI (Soybean Trypsin Inhibitor) contained in soybean extract have been reported to block Protease-Activated Receptor 2 (PAR-2) on keratinocytes, reducing melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes and easing UV-induced pigmentation. [5] In experiments, STI was reported to reduce melanin deposition by about 50% and BBI by about 25%, and preventive activity against UV-induced pigmentation was also confirmed in an in vivo model. [5] In addition, the ODI (Ortho-Dihydroxyisoflavone) derivatives (8'-hydroxydaidzein, 3'-hydroxydaidzein) generated by the bioconversion of daidzein in fermented soybean showed a meaningful level of melanin-synthesis-inhibiting activity, even compared with kojic acid, in B16 melanoma cells and a human skin equivalent model, and transcriptional inhibition of melanogenesis genes such as MITF and tyrosinase was confirmed. [4] In the cosmetics field, this can help with gradual tone correction rather than the complete removal of deep pigmentation.

4. A Sense of Surface Hydration and Conditioning

When exposed to dry and harsh environments, skin tends to feel tight, and its texture becomes disrupted. Soy saponin has been reported to stimulate endogenous hyaluronic acid (HA) synthesis in fibroblasts and skin models [3], and hydrolyzed soy protein and soy peptides are used, with lowered molecular weight, to support a sense of surface hydration and texture correction. [7] In a 12-week double-blind, vehicle-controlled clinical study, a soy moisturizer reported meaningful improvement over the control across photoaging indicators such as mottled pigmentation, dullness, fine lines, texture, and overall tone [8], and in a clinical study applying a 4% genistein gel for 24 weeks, epidermal thickness and hyaluronic acid concentration were observed to increase together. [1] However, since cosmetics work primarily at the surface and the stratum corneum, it is appropriate to understand this from the perspective of supporting surface conditions rather than fundamental change in the deep dermis.

5. Combination with Other Ingredients

Soybean-derived ingredients can be formulated on their own, but comprehensive care is possible when used together with other ingredients. Combined with vitamins C and E, you can expect antioxidant synergy that addresses both water-soluble and fat-soluble domains [1], and combined with hyaluronic acid and panthenol, you can strengthen the sense of surface hydration. Used with niacinamide, it pairs gently in terms of texture and tone correction, and combined with peptides and ceramide, it can help stabilize the skin's condition after environmental stress. When used together with retinol, research has reported that soybean isoflavones' antioxidant action may help ease oxidative stress [1]; however, if too many active ingredients in the same category overlap, this can lead to irritation depending on skin condition, so checking the full ingredient list is helpful.

Amorepacific's Perspective on Soybean

Skin changes every day amid different environments and conditions. Rather than presenting a particular ingredient as the "right answer," Amorepacific has explored ways to flexibly select and use ingredients according to each individual's skin condition and goals. Soybean is a heritage raw ingredient of East Asian food culture, and a key plant active that Amorepacific has researched for over 30 years, expanding from dietary benefits to skin benefits—broadening the scope of research from the use of isoflavones to the discovery of ODI (Ortho-Dihydroxyisoflavone), a new active component generated during fermentation. [10]

Scientific Understanding of Soybean Mechanism of Action

Amorepacific researchers focus on the mechanism of action of soybean to explore its potential in cosmetics. The main pathways of action of soybean mentioned in the research can be summarized as follows.

Isoflavone-based collagen and antioxidant pathways

Genistein and daidzein are reported to activate the TGF-β/Smad pathway in fibroblasts to raise the mRNA expression of type I and type IV collagen, elastin, and fibrillin-1, while at the same time lowering the expression of matrix metalloproteinases 1 and 2 (MMP-1, MMP-2) and raising TIMP protein levels to reduce collagen breakdown. [1] They regulate the NF-κB and MAPK (ERK, JNK, p38) signaling pathways activated upon UV exposure from a different angle, and a pattern of suppressing COX-2 and DNA-damage signaling while preserving PCNA has also been confirmed [1], making this a pathway studied in a multi-layered way for anti-aging and photoaging support.

PAR-2-mediated melanosome transfer inhibition and ODI melanin-synthesis regulation pathways

The protease inhibitors BBI and STI contained in soybean extract have been reported to block PAR-2 (Protease-Activated Receptor 2) on keratinocytes, reducing melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes and regulating UV-induced pigmentation from a different angle. [5] At the same time, the ODI derivatives generated in fermented soybean were confirmed to lower MITF and tyrosinase expression in B16 melanoma and human skin equivalent models, reducing melanin synthesis [4], and they are being examined as a signaling-stage mechanism supporting tone correction.

Amorepacific's Soybean Research

Amorepacific has researched the health and beauty benefits of Soybean for more than 30 years. As a crop that has stood at the center of the Korean Peninsula's food and fermentation culture, Soybean has been the subject of Amorepacific's ongoing research to uncover new skin-benefit value from this familiar plant resource. In particular, starting from the use of the representative component isoflavones, Amorepacific discovered ODI (Ortho-Dihydroxyisoflavone), a rare metabolite generated during fermentation, and elucidated a range of skin benefits including moisturizing, antioxidant, tone support, and anti-aging support. [14][15][16]

ODI exists in extremely small amounts in nature, making it difficult to utilize, but Amorepacific succeeded in mass-producing it through bioconversion technology. This is significant in that it expanded plant-material research beyond simple extraction into bio-materialization research that secures rare functional components using fermentation and bioconversion technology. [14][15][16]

In addition, to uncover the value of native soybeans, Amorepacific obtained about 140 native soybean varieties preserved at a genetic-resources center and comprehensively evaluated their cultivation characteristics, component composition, and skin benefits. As a result, it selected a flat soybean variety (nappaki bean) suitable as a cosmetic raw ingredient and developed it as AP Beauty Bean No. 1, and through follow-up breeding research, it is also pursuing the development of AP Beauty Bean No. 2, which is superior in composition and easy to cultivate. [14][15]

The scope of research did not remain with soybean seeds alone but expanded to soybean leaves as well. Amorepacific studied the skin benefits of soybean leaves according to cultivation environment and harvest timing, and in particular confirmed that soybean leaves harvested during the autumn-coloring period contain a large amount of skin anti-aging components, turning this into a raw material. It currently operates its own cultivation sites in Yeongwol, Paju, Jeju, and other locations, continuing seed preservation of rare native soybeans, development of superior varieties, and research into components and benefits by growth conditions. [14][15]

More recently, the potential of soybean-derived components to improve the skin barrier and stress-induced skin damage has also been proposed. Amorepacific presented research findings at an international investigative dermatology research conference that coumestrol, a component found in soybean, may ease the decline in skin barrier function associated with the action of the stress hormone cortisol. This shows that soybean research is expanding beyond radiant and anti-aging benefits into the areas of stress-induced skin damage and barrier function regulation. [17]

In addition, related academic research suggests that soybean-derived functional components may be linked to skin physiological activity, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-barrier-regulating potential. This supports the idea that soybean-based materials can expand beyond simple plant-derived raw materials into bio-functional materials. [16][17][18]

These research assets are becoming the foundation for developing soybean not as a simple plant raw ingredient but as an integrated material platform connecting component discovery, bioconversion, variety breeding, cultivation management, and skin-benefit verification. These technology assets have been applied across Amorepacific's brands: Primera's Seed Tech^™ is likewise expanding into a technology story from the perspective of skin barrier and skin-condition support, based on research into plant-seed-derived components and a germination- and vitality-based skincare philosophy. [14][15][20]

Amorepacific's soybean research can be seen as a representative case of heritage-ingredient research that reinterprets Korea's unique plant and fermentation heritage through modern biotechnology to realize the values of skin homeostasis, barrier support, and anti-aging. [14][15][16][17][18][19][20]

Realistic Application in Cosmetics

When applying this scientific background to cosmetics, several practical considerations are necessary.

The related research was carried out across various fields such as pharmacological and cellular experiments or dietary clinical studies, and cosmetics work primarily at the skin's surface and the stratum corneum. [1][2] In addition, soybean isoflavones are polyphenols sensitive to light and oxygen, and for proteins such as BBI and STI, molecular weight and formulation stability determine the perceived effect [5][6], so it is advisable to approach soybean not as an "all-purpose solution" but as "one part of a skincare routine," while also looking at formulations suited to your purpose—anti-aging, antioxidant, tone correction, and so on. Amorepacific conducts integrated research from the preservation of native soybeans to fermentation and bioconversion processes and formulation stability, designing so that soybean-derived active components maintain their original activity at the formulation stage. [10]

Amorepacific's Research Direction

Amorepacific is researching the potential of Soybean from multiple angles. While raising its value as a cosmetic raw ingredient through the preservation and breeding of native soybeans, Amorepacific comprehensively examines delivery technologies such as fermentation and bioconversion and formulation stability, building on a deep understanding of skin biology, and approaches this from the perspective of sustainable beauty that considers the ethical sourcing of raw materials, environmental impact, and long-term skin health.

Products utilizing soybean-related technology can be found at Amorepacific's Primera. You can learn more about Amorepacific's research and development philosophy and technology trends at the link below.

Primera Soybean for Skin: What It Is, Benefits, and How It Works benefits

Explore Amorepacific Research & Innovation

Soybean Fact Check

We examine information about soybean that is frequently misunderstood or exaggerated to gain a more balanced understanding of its characteristics as a cosmetic ingredient.

Question	Fact Check
Does soybean guarantee skin regeneration?	Research on isoflavones' collagen synthesis and MMP inhibition has accumulated, but it is difficult for a single cosmetic step to "guarantee" regeneration, and the perceived effect is gradual. [1][9]
Can using soybean cosmetics produce the effects of a procedure?	Soybean extract works at the surface and the stratum corneum, and it differs from a medical procedure in the depth and mechanism of action. It is difficult to expect results equivalent to a procedure. [1][8]
Is soybean suitable for all skin types?	Soybean-derived proteins and isoflavones are generally regarded as friendly plant actives, but those with a history of soy allergy or co-formulated ingredients can be variables. [7]
Do I see immediate effects when I apply soybean?	A sense of surface hydration is measured relatively quickly, but changes in fine lines, firmness, and tone are reported to appear over weeks to months of use. [8][9]
Is a higher concentration of soybean always better?	Soybean is a multi-component active, and the stabilization and delivery technology of the isoflavones and proteins determines the perceived effect. Concentration is not an absolute standard. [1][5]
Is soybean extracted from only one source?	In addition to soybean seeds (Glycine max / Glycine soja), the germ and leaves are used, and fermented soybean generates new active components such as ODI. [4][10]

How to Experience Soybean Benefits

Realistic Changes to Expect

With consistent use of soybean-containing cosmetics, it can help gradually refine the impression of fine lines, rough skin texture, dullness, and uneven tone. In a 12-week clinical study, a stabilized soybean extract moisturizer significantly improved fine lines, skin texture, skin tone, dullness, and mottled pigmentation compared with the control, and soybean-derived components have been studied for their pigment-care potential through regulation of the PAR-2 pathway that reduces melanosome transfer. [21][22] These changes appear gradually and cumulatively rather than dramatically, and consistent use is important.

Changes That Are Difficult to Expect

It is difficult to expect, from cosmetics alone, the complete removal of deep pigmentation, fundamental restoration of firmness down to the dermal layer, photoaging improvement equivalent to a medical procedure, or the complete smoothing of deep wrinkles. If pigment-related concerns are significant, consulting a specialist is recommended. If you need more active anti-aging or antioxidant care, you may consider combining complementary ingredients such as vitamin C, retinol, and peptides.

Safety of Soybean

Soybean-derived cosmetic ingredients are generally regarded as plant actives that are used safely. However, as with all cosmetic ingredients, individual reactions may vary, so please refer to the following.

General Safety

The European cosmetic ingredient database (COSMILE Europe) lists Glycine Soja Seed Extract as a plant-derived raw ingredient obtained by solvent extraction from soybean seeds, with a "skin conditioning" function, and presents it as a raw material whose safety has been evaluated under EU cosmetic regulations. [6] The U.S. Cosmetic Info classifies Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein and Hydrolyzed Soy Protein as skin- and hair-conditioning ingredients and confirms they have been evaluated for safety under EU cosmetic regulations. [7] The CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) expert panel, considering the molecular weight and water solubility of soy proteins and peptides, assessed that penetration upon skin application is limited, showing an exposure pattern different from dietary allergy, and that reports of irritation or sensitization under general conditions of use are rare. [7]

When Caution is Needed

Because soybean is a known allergen in the dietary field, consultation with a specialist before use is recommended for those with a history of soy allergy [7], and given the nature of plant extracts, irritation or sensitivity reactions are rarely reported, though individual reactions may vary. [6] Co-formulated fragrances, preservatives, and alcohol can be variables in irritation [6], and because soybean isoflavones are polyphenols sensitive to light and oxygen, discoloration or degradation may lead to irritation, so it is helpful to choose products with a stabilizing formulation and light-blocking packaging and to be mindful of storage conditions. For first-time use, apply a small amount to a small area and observe the reaction for about 24 hours, and consult a specialist if you have existing skin concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What exactly is soybean?

Soybean (Glycine max / Glycine soja) is the seed of a plant in the legume family, and in cosmetics it is used in forms such as Glycine Soja Seed Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, and Glycine Soja Germ Extract. The seed contains isoflavones (genistein, daidzein, glycitein), saponins (soyasaponin), tocopherol, and protease inhibitors (BBI, STI), so multi-layered benefits such as antioxidant, collagen-related, radiance, and moisturizing support are reported. [1][2][6]

What should sensitive skin keep in mind when using soybean products?

Soy proteins and peptides are generally regarded as friendly plant actives when considering their molecular weight and water solubility [7], but if you have a history of soy allergy, consultation with a specialist before use is recommended. Co-formulated fragrances, alcohol, and preservatives can also be variables [11], so for first-time use it is advisable to apply a small amount to a small area, observe the reaction, and then begin using it in earnest.

What ingredients are good to use together with soybean?

When combined with vitamins C and E (antioxidant synergy), hyaluronic acid (moisture reinforcement), niacinamide (texture and tone correction), ceramide (barrier reinforcement), panthenol (skin soothing), and peptides (support for a sense of firmness), comprehensive care may be expected. [1]

Can I use soybean and retinol together?

They can be used together. Research has reported that soybean isoflavones' antioxidant action can provide supplementary help in easing the oxidative stress that can occur with retinol use. [1] However, in the early stages of retinol use, skin can become temporarily sensitive, so it is advisable to apply it gradually while monitoring your skin condition.

Can I use soybean together with exfoliating ingredients (AHA/BHA)?

They can be used together, but the skin barrier can become temporarily sensitive after using AHA/BHA. [12] If you feel irritation when using them on the same day, it can help to separate the timing of use, or to stabilize the surface condition with a soybean-containing formulation after exfoliation.

Can I use soybean products right after a procedure?

It depends on the type and intensity of the procedure and the individual skin condition. There is research that soybean isoflavones' antioxidant action and BBI/STI's regulation of pigment signaling may contribute supplementarily to easing oxidative stress and correcting tone after a procedure [1][5], but for the period immediately after a procedure and the timing at which use is possible, following the guidance of the medical professional who performed the procedure takes top priority.

Do pores shrink when I use soybean cosmetics?

Pore size is determined by a combination of factors such as genetics, the amount of sebum secretion, and skin elasticity. [13] Research on soybean isoflavones' balance of collagen synthesis and breakdown has been reported [1], but rather than expecting permanent pore reduction, it is realistic to expect the impression that pores look "less prominent" through texture correction.

When can I expect to feel the effects of soybean?

A sense of surface hydration and conditioning can be felt relatively quickly, but changes in fine lines, firmness, and tone are felt cumulatively. In a 12-week double-blind clinical study, a soybean moisturizer was reported to significantly improve photoaging indicators overall [8], and in a 6-month soy protein clinical study, a pattern of meaningful reduction in fine lines and pigment intensity was confirmed at the 16-week and 24-week time points [9]; individual results may vary.

What is the difference between Soybean Seed Extract and hydrolyzed soy protein?

Although both are derived from soybean, their activity profiles differ. Soybean Seed Extract (Glycine Soja Seed Extract) is a comprehensive active carrying isoflavones, saponins, and BBI/STI proteins, approaching multi-layered mechanisms such as antioxidant, tone correction, and collagen support [1][5], while hydrolyzed soy protein is formulated as a peptide mixture with lowered molecular weight, as a raw ingredient focused on supporting a sense of surface hydration and texture correction. [7]

Are soybean and fermented soybean (ODI) the same ingredient?

They are different. General soybean extract carries isoflavone glycosides such as daidzein as they are, while fermented soybean extract shows a new activity profile as daidzein is converted into ODI (Ortho-Dihydroxyisoflavone) derivatives through microbial bioconversion. ODI derivatives have been reported to meaningfully reduce melanin synthesis in B16 melanoma and human skin equivalent models. [4]

By what criteria should I choose soybean cosmetics?

If anti-aging and fine-line care are your priority, it helps to look for a stabilized formulation with isoflavone (genistein, daidzein) content; if tone-correction support is your goal, a formulation co-formulated with BBI/STI or fermented soybean (ODI)-derived components; and if a sense of surface hydration is your priority, a formulation containing hydrolyzed soy protein and soy peptides. [1][5][7] Because soybean isoflavones are sensitive to light and oxygen, it is good to also consider stabilization technology and packaging. [1]

Can I use soybean cosmetics even if I have a soy allergy?

Soy proteins and peptides are assessed as having limited penetration upon skin application when considering their molecular weight and water solubility, showing an exposure pattern different from dietary allergy [7], but it is difficult to uniformly recommend cosmetic use to those with a history of allergy. It is helpful to consult a specialist before use and, for first-time use, to apply a small amount to a small area and observe the reaction for about 24 hours. [7]

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Wallo W, Nebus J, Leyden JJ. (2007). Efficacy of a soy moisturizer in photoaging: a double-blind, vehicle-controlled, 12-week study. J Drugs Dermatol, 6(9), 917-922. | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17941363/
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※ The effects and technologies of ingredients described in this content are based on Amorepacific's own research and publicly available academic and scientific sources to provide a general understanding of cosmetic ingredients. It is not intended for medical diagnosis or treatment purposes. For personal medical concerns, please consult a qualified medical professional.

Soybean for Skin:What It Is, Benefits, and How It Works