What Is Pseudozyma Epicola/Jojoba Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate?
Pseudozyma Epicola/Jojoba Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate is a skin care ingredient made by fermenting jojoba seed oil with the friendly yeast Pseudozyma epicola. The fermentation process breaks down the oil into smaller, more bio-available molecules and creates new skin-loving compounds like natural sugars, amino acids and lightweight lipids. After fermentation the mixture is filtered, leaving a clear fluid that blends easily into creams and serums.
Jojoba has been prized for its moisturizing touch since the 1970s. Researchers later discovered that fermenting the oil could boost its benefits while making it feel lighter. Korean and Japanese labs helped pioneer this method in the early 2000s, and it soon caught the interest of global beauty brands looking for gentle bio-active ingredients.
The filtrate is produced in a controlled tank where jojoba oil, water and Pseudozyma epicola are mixed under warm, clean conditions. Over several days the yeast transforms the oil, creating a stable brew that is then passed through fine filters to remove any solids or microbes. The finished filtrate is clear, mild and water-loving, making it easy to add to modern formulas.
You will usually spot this ingredient in light moisturizers, soothing masks, anti-aging serums, scalp tonics, leave-in hair conditioners and after-sun gels where a fresh, non-greasy feel is key.
Pseudozyma Epicola/Jojoba Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking filtrate supports both skin and hair care formulas in several ways:
- Emulsion stabilising – helps oil and water stay blended, so lotions stay smooth from first pump to last
- Hair conditioning – coats strands with a light film that boosts softness and shine without weighing hair down
- Humectant – draws moisture from the air into the skin, keeping it feeling plump and comfortable
- Skin conditioning – leaves skin feeling silky and supple thanks to the mix of fermented lipids and proteins
- Skin protecting – forms a breathable barrier that defends against dryness and everyday irritants
Who Can Use Pseudozyma Epicola/Jojoba Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate
This ingredient is gentle enough for most skin types. Dry and mature skin benefit from the extra moisture it pulls in, while its light feel suits normal and oily skin that dislike heavy oils. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it because fermentation reduces potential irritants found in raw jojoba oil. The only groups who might need caution are people with a known allergy to jojoba or yeast-derived ingredients, as trace compounds from either source could remain in the filtrate.
Pseudozyma Epicola/Jojoba Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate is plant-based and produced without animal derivatives, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
No data suggest that the filtrate poses a special risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women. Still, this is not medical advice. Anyone expecting or nursing should run all skincare products past a qualified health professional for personalized guidance.
The filtrate does not increase photosensitivity, so there is no extra sun caution beyond the daily SPF everyone should already be using.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Pseudozyma Epicola/Jojoba Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or stinging
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to jojoba or yeast-derived substances
- Rare clogged pores if applied in a very rich formula on highly acne-prone skin
If irritation or any unexpected reaction develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
The base oil, jojoba, already sits low on the comedogenic scale because its waxy esters mimic skin’s natural sebum and tend not to clog pores. Fermentation further breaks these esters into smaller, water-loving molecules that rinse away more easily, reducing any pore-blocking potential. For that reason the filtrate is generally considered non-pore-clogging.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, especially when included in lightweight serums, gels or lotions rather than heavy balms.
Formulation still matters: a product packed with thick butters or occlusive silicones could override the low comedogenicity of this single ingredient.
Summary
Pseudozyma Epicola/Jojoba Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate acts as an emulsion stabiliser, humectant, skin and hair conditioner and protective agent. The yeast breaks jojoba oil into bite-sized lipids, amino acids and sugars that attract water, smooth the skin surface and help oil and water stay blended, delivering a soft breathable finish.
While not yet a household name it is gaining traction in K-beauty inspired moisturisers, after-sun gels and leave-in hair tonics thanks to its light feel and multitasking nature.
Current safety data show a very low risk of irritation except in the rare case of jojoba or yeast allergies. Overall it is regarded as safe for daily use. As with any new skincare product a simple patch test is a smart move before full application.