Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Pinus Koraiensis Seed Ferment Oil 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
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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/Pinus Koraiensis Seed Ferment Oil Filtrate?

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Pinus Koraiensis Seed Ferment Oil Filtrate comes from the seeds of the Korean red pine (Pinus koraiensis). The seeds are pressed to obtain oil, then that oil is fermented with two friendly microorganisms, Kluyveromyces yeast and Lactobacillus bacteria. After fermentation the mixture is filtered, leaving a clear liquid rich in small molecules that skin can absorb with ease. Pine seed oil is naturally high in fatty acids, vitamin E and other plant compounds that fight free radicals. Fermentation breaks these nutrients into even smaller parts, boosting their stability and skin-friendly qualities.

Pine ingredients have been used in folk beauty routines in East Asia for generations, yet this fermented version is fairly new. Korean cosmetic chemists began working with it in the last decade when the trend for fermented skincare grew, borrowing ideas from traditional food like kimchi. By pairing pine oil with well-studied probiotic strains they created an ingredient that keeps the antioxidant punch of the oil while adding the soothing touch of fermented actives.

The process starts with cold-pressing the seeds to keep nutrients intact. The unrefined oil is then mixed with the microorganisms under controlled warmth and humidity. Over several days the microbes convert parts of the oil, making it lighter and easier for skin to accept. The final filtrate is purified to remove solids and leave a clear fluid ready for creams, serums and masks.

You can spot this filtrate in hydrating sheet masks, daily moisturizers, brightening serums, anti-aging creams, after-sun gels and barrier-care balms. Brands like it because a small amount adds multiple benefits without heavy texture.

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Pinus Koraiensis Seed Ferment Oil Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multitasker offers several perks for skin care formulas:

  • Antioxidant: Helps neutralize free radicals produced by UV light and pollution which can lead to dullness and early lines. Adding it to a product supports overall skin health and keeps the formula itself from spoiling as fast.
  • Bleaching (brightening): Can soften the look of dark spots and uneven tone by slowing excess pigment production giving skin a fresher brighter appearance.
  • Skin Conditioning: Supplies lightweight moisture and essential fatty acids that leave skin feeling smooth supple and comfortable without a greasy film.
  • Skin Protecting: Supports the skin barrier by forming a soft breathable shield that locks in water and keeps out irritants helping sensitive or stressed skin stay calm.

Who Can Use Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Pinus Koraiensis Seed Ferment Oil Filtrate

This filtrate is gentle enough for most skin types. Dry or mature skin benefits from its fatty acids while the lightweight texture sits comfortably on combination and normal skin. Sensitive complexions usually tolerate it well thanks to the soothing compounds produced during fermentation. Very oily or acne‐prone skin can also use it because the filtrate is far less greasy than raw pine seed oil, yet anyone experiencing frequent breakouts may prefer to introduce it slowly and observe how their pores respond.

The ingredient is derived from plant seeds and cultured microorganisms, with no animal by-products involved, so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

No studies have flagged issues for pregnant or breastfeeding users when this filtrate is applied topically. Still, because hormonal skin changes can make reactions harder to predict, women who are pregnant or nursing should consult a healthcare professional before adding new products that feature the ingredient. The information here is not medical advice.

The filtrate does not increase skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, and it can safely be paired with daytime sunscreen without raising the risk of sunburn.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Pinus Koraiensis Seed Ferment Oil Filtrate vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet unlikely for most users when the ingredient is formulated correctly.

  • Irritation or redness in those who have a history of reacting to fermented extracts or pine derivatives
  • Allergic contact dermatitis if someone is specifically allergic to pine, yeast or Lactobacillus metabolites
  • Temporary stinging on freshly exfoliated or compromised skin because the barrier is already weakened
  • Clogged pores or minor breakouts in individuals extremely prone to comedones though the risk is low compared with heavier oils

If any discomfort, persistent redness or swelling occurs discontinue use and seek advice from a qualified medical professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5. The filtrate is made from pine seed oil that has been broken down by yeast and bacteria, so the heavier triglycerides that normally clog pores are largely converted into lighter compounds. It still contains some fatty acids but in a form that rinses or absorbs easily without leaving a thick film. Most acne-prone users should find it well-tolerated, yet extremely sensitive or very oily skin might want to monitor for any change in congestion. Because the ingredient is water-light manufacturers often use it at low levels, which further lowers the clogging risk.

Overall this fermented version is far less occlusive than raw pine or other nut oils, making it a friendlier option for anyone worried about breakouts.

Summary

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Pinus Koraiensis Seed Ferment Oil Filtrate delivers four main perks: it fights free radicals through naturally high vitamin E and polyphenols, gently brightens by tempering excess melanin activity, conditions skin with small easy-to-absorb fatty acids and creates a protective veil that supports the barrier. Fermentation makes these nutrients smaller, more stable and easier for skin to welcome, so formulas can stay light yet effective.

The ingredient is gaining traction inside K-beauty circles and slowly appearing in global clean beauty lines, though it is still far from mainstream. Its multi-tasking nature and eco-friendly story appeal to brands looking for fresh alternatives to common oils and synthetic antioxidants.

Current data shows it is low risk when used topically, with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new cosmetic, give your skin a chance to adjust by patch testing first and discontinue use if discomfort arises.

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