What Is Bacillus/Pentaclethra Macroloba Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate?
Bacillus/Pentaclethra Macroloba Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate is a skincare ingredient that starts with the oil pressed from the seeds of Pentaclethra macroloba, a tree native to the Amazon region better known as pracaxi. The oil is rich in behenic, oleic and linoleic fatty acids, which soften and replenish the skin. To create the filtrate used in cosmetics, scientists ferment this oil with a safe Bacillus species. During fermentation the microorganism breaks down parts of the oil and releases new skin-loving compounds such as short-chain fatty acids, peptides and sugars. The mixture is then filtered to remove the bacteria, leaving a clear liquid packed with conditioning molecules.
Pracaxi oil has long been used by local communities as a natural hair and skin conditioner. Modern labs explored fermentation as a way to boost its benefits and make it easier to blend into water-based formulas. Since the early 2010s the resulting filtrate has appeared in moisturizers, face masks, anti-aging serums, after-sun gels and leave-on hair treatments where it provides a lightweight, velvety feel without greasiness.
Bacillus/Pentaclethra Macroloba Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This fermented filtrate supports the skin in more than one way
- Skin conditioning: Helps keep the outer layer of skin smooth, supple and comfortable by supplying fatty acids and moisture-binding compounds. Regular use can improve softness and reduce the look of rough patches
- Emollient: Fills in tiny gaps between skin cells, creating a silky surface that feels cushioned and hydrated. This makes formulations glide on easily and leaves a subtle, non-oily sheen
Who Can Use Bacillus/Pentaclethra Macroloba Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate
This ingredient is gentle enough for most skin types. Dry and normal skin often enjoy its extra softness while combination and oily skin benefit from its light texture that does not feel greasy. It is not known to clog pores so it is usually fine for breakout-prone faces too. People with very sensitive skin should still watch how their skin reacts because any new ingredient can sometimes cause irritation.
The filtrate is plant-derived and produced through fermentation with a harmless Bacillus strain, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal parts or by-products are used during its production.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women can generally use products that feature this ferment because there is no data linking it to hormonal or developmental effects. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new skincare just to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, so there is no special need for extra sun precautions beyond the daily SPF already recommended for healthy skin.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Bacillus/Pentaclethra Macroloba Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate differ from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential reactions and most users will not notice any problems if the product is well formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or stinging
- Itchy patches in those with very sensitive or compromised skin barriers
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases where someone is allergic to a component of the ferment
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any discomfort or unusual reaction appears stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 – The original pracaxi seed oil contains mostly behenic and oleic acids that can feel rich, yet fermentation breaks part of these long-chain lipids into smaller water-compatible molecules and the final filtrate is largely non-oily. The lightweight texture spreads thinly and absorbs fast so it is unlikely to block pores for most users.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, provided the overall formula is also low in pore-clogging ingredients.
Because this filtrate is typically used at modest percentages alongside other actives the risk of congestion is even lower than the rating suggests.
Summary
Bacillus/Pentaclethra Macroloba Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate works mainly as a skin-conditioning emollient. The fermentation step releases short fatty acids, peptides and sugars that soften the skin, help fill microscopic gaps between cells and leave a silky feel without heaviness. This makes it useful in moisturizers, serums, masks and hair care.
The ferment is still a niche ingredient compared with classics like glycerin or squalane, yet formulators appreciate its plant origin and light sensorial finish so its presence in new launches is steadily climbing.
Current data show it is safe for topical use with a very low irritation profile. As with any cosmetic ingredient do a patch test when trying a new product to make sure your skin agrees with it.