# Fermented Glow Ingredients SETHIC’s ILLUMETA uses multi-fungi fermentation to improve skin tone By Mursal Rahman | Published 2026-04-21 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sethics-illumeta References: [cosmeticsbusiness](https://cosmeticsbusiness.com/sethic-launches-illumeta-a-new-super-metabiotic-ingredient) & [sethic-innovations](https://www.sethic-innovations.com/products/skincare/illumeta)  SETHIC’s ILLUMETA introduces a new approach to skincare by using [multi-fungi fermentation](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/super-shroom-serum-mist) to create metabolite-rich actives that improve both skin tone and texture. Derived from Koshihikari brown rice, the ingredient works beyond traditional brightening methods by targeting existing pigmentation through processes like melanophagy while also supporting skin structure. This dual-action method contributes to a more balanced, radiant “glass skin” effect without relying solely on melanin suppression. For the beauty industry, this signals a shift toward biologically complex, [fermentation-based ingredients](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oh-mega-milky-oil) that merge health and cosmetic benefits. Brands can explore similar bioactive systems to differentiate their formulations and appeal to consumers seeking science-backed, multifunctional products. As demand grows for efficacy and transparency, technologies that combine AI mapping with natural fermentation processes may influence future product development, positioning advanced ingredient platforms as a key competitive advantage. Image Credit: SETHIC ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.1/10 - Popularity: 34% | Activity: 47% | Freshness: 73% - Audience gender: 10% men, 90% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Cosmetics](https://www.trendhunter.com/cosmetics) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Multi-fungi Fermentation:** Creates complex metabolite profiles that enable novel functional ingredients with effects beyond single-compound actives. - **Metabolite-rich Actives:** Introduces ingredient classes that deliver combined molecular activities for simultaneous texture and tone improvements. - **Dual-action Brightening:** Shifts focus from melanin suppression to pigment-targeting and structural support, offering multifaceted approaches to skin radiance. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Skincare and Cosmetics:** Stands to be transformed by incorporation of fermentation-derived bioactives that redefine efficacy claims and product positioning. - **Functional Ingredient Manufacturing:** May evolve toward fermentation platform companies producing reproducible, high-value metabolite libraries for formulators. - **Beauty Tech and AI Platforms:** Could enable predictive mapping of fermentation outputs to target biological pathways and accelerate tailored ingredient development. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Tomato-Infused Serums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tomato-tonic.md) - [High Potency Wellness Powders](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/inner-glow.md) - [Light-Activated Skincare Serums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mitoaura-activate-amplify-serum.md) - [Revitalizing Bioactive Moisturizers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-restorative-moisturizer.md) - [Technologically Advanced Skin Serums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ultimune-power-infusing-serums.md) - [Fermented Rice Bran Ingredients](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rice-bran-ferment.md) - [Scientifically Backed Postbiotic Ingredients](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/postbiotic-ingredient.md) - [Biotech Body Sculpting](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/provital.md) - [Cream Highlighter Sticks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cream-highlighter-sticks.md)