What Is Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment?
Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment is a soothing ingredient made during the controlled fermentation of the yeast-like fungus Aureobasidium pullulans. During fermentation the microorganism breaks down sugars and other nutrients, creating a watery broth rich in polysaccharides, amino acids and minerals that can help skin hold on to moisture. The ferment gained attention in the late 1990s when researchers noticed its natural film-forming and hydrating qualities, which led formulators to add it to beauty products looking for gentle skin conditioning without heaviness.
The production process starts by growing Aureobasidium pullulans in a sterilized tank filled with water and plant-based sugars. Temperature, pH and oxygen are carefully managed while the microbe converts the sugars into a nutrient-packed liquid. Once fermentation is complete the mixture is filtered to remove cells, then purified and concentrated into a stable ingredient that blends easily with creams and gels.
You will most often spot Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment in lightweight moisturizers, hydrating serums, sheet masks, soothing after-sun gels and anti-aging formulas that aim to replenish the skin barrier without clogging pores.
Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ferment is prized for one main role in skincare formulas.
Skin conditioning: The ferment’s natural sugars and proteins form a soft flexible film on the surface of the skin, helping to lock in water and smooth rough patches. This added hydration can make the complexion feel softer and look plumper, which also helps fine lines appear less noticeable.
Who Can Use Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment
This ferment is gentle and water based, so it tends to work well for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Its lightweight texture means it will not leave a greasy feel, making it a solid choice for acne-prone or sensitive skin too. People with a known allergy to yeast or fungal extracts should approach with caution because the ingredient comes from a fungus.
Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment is produced through a microbial process that does not involve animal tissue, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. The culture medium usually relies on plant sugars and the finished material is filtered so no animal derivatives remain.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women are not known to face special risks when using products that contain this ferment, yet this is not medical advice. It is always safest for anyone who is expecting or nursing to review new skincare products with a doctor first.
The ingredient does not increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, so it will not make you burn more easily. Standard daily sunscreen habits are still encouraged for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and preserved correctly.
- Mild redness or stinging in people with very reactive or compromised skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in those sensitive to yeast or fungal derived materials
- Itching or small bumps if the product contains other irritants or if the skin barrier is already damaged
- Breakouts in rare cases where a formula includes heavy occlusives alongside the ferment, which can trap oil and debris
- Contamination-related irritation if the finished product is not preserved properly and microbes grow in the container
If you experience any of the effects listed above stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment is a water-soluble ingredient rich in lightweight sugars and amino acids, not pore-clogging oils or waxes. Because it sits on the skin as a thin, breathable film and rinses away easily, it is considered non-comedogenic.
Suitable for acne-prone skin? Yes, its low weight and absence of heavy lipids make it a safe pick for those who break out easily.
One thing to note is that the finished product must be preserved well. If microbes grow in the container they could trigger irritation or acne flare-ups, but this risk comes from poor preservation rather than the ferment itself.
Summary
Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment is mainly a skin-conditioning agent that boosts hydration, softness and barrier support. During fermentation the microbe creates polysaccharides that form a flexible film on skin, trapping water while letting the surface breathe.
While not yet a household name like hyaluronic acid, the ferment is gaining quiet popularity in niche moisturizers, soothing gels and sheet masks thanks to its gentle feel and vegan origin.
Overall safety is high; side effects are rare and usually tied to individual yeast sensitivities. Still, skin is personal so doing a small patch test when you try a new product is always the smartest move.