Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil Ferment Filtrate: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil Ferment Filtrate?

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil Ferment Filtrate is a fermented version of sea buckthorn oil. Sea buckthorn, also called Hippophae rhamnoides, is a resilient shrub whose bright orange berries and seeds are rich in omega fatty acids, vitamins A, C and E, plus naturally occurring antioxidants. When this oil is fermented with the friendly yeast Kluyveromyces and the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus, the microbes break down large oil molecules into smaller, more skin-friendly compounds while also producing beneficial by-products such as peptides, amino acids and gentle exfoliating acids.

Sea buckthorn oil has been prized in folk beauty rituals for centuries, but its modern cosmetic renaissance began when formulators realized fermentation could make the oil lighter and easier for skin to absorb. Biotechnology labs started experimenting with this process in the early 2000s, seeking to combine traditional plant extracts with the skin-loving effects of probiotics. The result is a filtrate that keeps the goodness of the original oil yet feels less greasy and is loaded with extra skin nutrients.

To create the ingredient, fresh sea buckthorn berries are cold-pressed to obtain the oil, which is then blended with cultured strains of Kluyveromyces and Lactobacillus in a temperature-controlled tank. Over several days the microbes ferment the oil, after which the mixture is carefully filtered to remove residual cells, leaving a clear, nutrient-dense liquid known as a ferment filtrate.

Because of its light texture and multi-functional profile you will find this ferment in a variety of leave-on products such as anti-aging serums, hydrating essences, calming moisturizers, barrier repair creams, brightening masks, eye creams and aftersun lotions. It is also popular in facial oils that aim to deliver the richness of an oil without a heavy finish.

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This fermented oil offers several perks to skin care formulas:

  • Antioxidant – Helps neutralize free radicals generated by UV light and pollution, which can slow the look of premature aging and keep skin tone more even.
  • Skin Conditioning – Supplies fatty acids, vitamins and fermentation-derived humectants that boost moisture levels, soften rough patches and leave skin feeling smooth and supple.
  • Skin Protecting – Supports the skin barrier by reinforcing the lipid layer, making skin less prone to dryness and environmental stress. This can reduce redness and sensitivity over time.

Who Can Use Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil Ferment Filtrate

This fermented sea buckthorn oil suits most skin types, from dry and mature to combination and even oily, thanks to its lightweight feel and barrier-supporting fatty acids. Those with very reactive or highly sensitized skin should introduce it slowly, as fermented actives can occasionally provoke a flare in people who struggle with probiotic or yeast‐derived ingredients.

The ingredient is plant-based and produced with microorganisms, so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. No animal by-products are used during extraction or fermentation.

There are no known pregnancy or breastfeeding warnings for topical use of this filtrate. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid or other substances commonly restricted during this time. This is not medical advice; expectant or nursing users should clear any new skincare with a qualified physician to stay on the safe side.

The filtrate is not known to cause photosensitivity. In fact, its naturally occurring carotenoids offer a small boost of antioxidant protection when skin is exposed to daylight. Standard sun protection measures should still be followed.

It layers well with most actives, including niacinamide, peptides and hyaluronic acid. If pairing with powerful exfoliating acids or prescription treatments, apply on alternate days to avoid over-loading the skin barrier.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil Ferment Filtrate can differ from person to person. The points below outline potential yet uncommon reactions. When the ingredient is properly formulated most users will not encounter these issues.

  • Mild stinging or tingling
  • Temporary redness or flushing
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to sea buckthorn or fermentation by-products
  • Breakouts in very acne-prone skin if used in an overly occlusive formula
  • Eye irritation if product migrates into the ocular area

If any of these reactions occur stop use immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

The filtrate is derived from sea buckthorn oil, which already sits low on the comedogenic scale, and fermentation breaks the oil into smaller molecules that sink in quickly rather than sitting on the surface. The finished ingredient is light, absorbs fast and leaves minimal residue, which keeps pore blockage risk low.

Generally suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts, provided the rest of the formula is also lightweight and non occlusive.

Keep in mind that the final comedogenic profile depends on the whole product. Heavy emollients, waxes or silicones in the same formula can still clog pores even if this filtrate alone is unlikely to.

Summary

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil Ferment Filtrate acts as an antioxidant, skin conditioner and skin protectant. It delivers carotenoids, vitamins A C and E plus omega fatty acids that mop up free radicals, feed the moisture barrier and reinforce surface lipids. Fermentation adds amino acids and mild acids that help the skin accept these benefits without a greasy afterfeel.

The ingredient is moderately popular in K-beauty inspired serums, essences and light creams but has not yet reached mainstream status in Western lines. Formulators who want the nutritive punch of sea buckthorn without its oiliness are starting to take notice, so its presence is growing.

Current data and user reports show it is safe for most people with a low risk of irritation or pore clogging. As with any new skincare product, patch testing is a smart move before applying it to larger areas.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search