What Is Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Sesame Seed Ferment Oil Filtrate?
Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Sesame Seed Ferment Oil Filtrate is a liquid extract obtained after sesame seed oil is first pressed from the seeds of Sesamum indicum and then fermented with two friendly microorganisms: the yeast Kluyveromyces and the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus. During fermentation these microbes break down some of the larger oil molecules into smaller compounds like peptides, fatty acids and antioxidant polyphenols while also producing their own protective metabolites. The resulting filtrate is lighter than raw sesame oil yet richer in skin friendly nutrients.
Fermented plant oils began gaining attention in Korean and Japanese beauty labs in the early 2010s as formulators looked for ways to boost the potency and skin feel of traditional botanical oils. By borrowing methods from food fermentation they discovered that microbes could increase antioxidant levels and improve absorption. Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Sesame Seed Ferment Oil Filtrate quickly found a place in brightening serums and soothing creams thanks to its balanced mix of nourishing lipids and bioactive fragments.
To make the ingredient, manufacturers cold press sesame seeds to obtain virgin oil then inoculate it with selected strains of Kluyveromyces and Lactobacillus under controlled temperature and pH. After several days the fermented mixture is gently filtered to remove solids and excess microbes leaving a clear golden filtrate that is stable and easy to blend into water based or oil based formulas.
You will spot this filtrate in facial oils, night creams, hydrating essences, sheet masks, brightening spot treatments, scalp serums and lightweight hair conditioners where it supports skin comfort and hair softness without a greasy finish.
Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Sesame Seed Ferment Oil Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ferment adds several advantages to modern beauty products
- Antioxidant: Helps neutralize free radicals created by UV exposure or pollution which can otherwise lead to dullness and premature fine lines
- Bleaching: Supports a more even looking skin tone by gently reducing the appearance of dark spots and post blemish marks over time
- Hair Conditioning: Smooths the cuticle and provides lightweight moisture so strands feel softer look shinier and resist breakage
- Skin Conditioning: Supplies essential lipids peptides and humectants that reinforce the skin barrier keeping it supple and comfortable
- Skin Protecting: Forms a breathable film that shields against external irritants and helps lock in hydration throughout the day
Who Can Use Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Sesame Seed Ferment Oil Filtrate
This ferment suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitive skin because it is lightweight and calming without a heavy oil feel. People with a known sesame seed allergy however should avoid it since the filtrate is still derived from sesame oil and could provoke a reaction.
Because the ingredient comes from plant oil that has been processed with naturally occurring microorganisms rather than animal by-products it is considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
No published research suggests the filtrate is unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically in cosmetic amounts. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product they plan to use to their healthcare provider first.
The filtrate does not increase photosensitivity so it can be worn during the day without raising the risk of sunburn though daily sunscreen is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Sesame Seed Ferment Oil Filtrate vary from person to person. The effects listed below are only potential issues and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated in a finished product.
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to sesame or fermented ingredients
- Mild stinging or redness if applied to freshly exfoliated or compromised skin
- Rare breakout flare-ups in users prone to fungal folliculitis because the filtrate contains yeast derivatives
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any discomfort swelling or persistent irritation occurs stop using the product immediately and consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2/5. While raw sesame oil can sit around the middle of the comedogenic scale, the fermentation and filtration steps break down heavier triglycerides into smaller molecules that sit more lightly on the skin. This reduces the chance of clogged pores compared with straight sesame oil yet the presence of some residual fatty acids still gives it a low to moderate score.
Most acne prone users should find the filtrate acceptable, especially in well balanced formulas, but very clog-sensitive skin might prefer completely non-comedogenic alternatives.
Keep in mind that a formula’s full ingredient mix, texture and how much you apply matter just as much as this single component when it comes to breakouts.
Summary
Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Sesame Seed Ferment Oil Filtrate conditions, protects, brightens and fights free radicals by delivering a cocktail of fermented lipids, peptides and antioxidant metabolites deep into the skin and hair cuticle. The microbes pre digest the oil so its nutrients absorb faster and perform better while leaving behind a breathable film that locks in moisture and shields against daily stressors.
Although not yet a household name, the ferment has been cropping up more frequently in K-beauty serums and lightweight moisturizers as brands look for gentle ways to add both nourishment and glow without heaviness.
Topical use is considered safe for the vast majority of consumers with the main caveat being potential reactions in anyone allergic to sesame or fermented ingredients. As with any new cosmetic active, a quick patch test is wise to rule out individual sensitivities before adding it to your regular routine.