What Is Pseudozyma Epicola/Olive Fruit Oil Ferment Filtrate?
Pseudozyma Epicola/Olive Fruit Oil Ferment Filtrate is a skin and hair care ingredient born from biotechnology. It starts with extra virgin olive fruit oil, rich in fatty acids and natural antioxidants. Scientists introduce a friendly microorganism called Pseudozyma epicola to the oil and let it ferment in a controlled setting. During fermentation the microbe breaks down parts of the oil, releasing smaller molecules like peptides, sugars and glycerides that can blend well with water. Once fermentation is complete the mix is carefully filtered to remove the microbes, leaving a clear liquid known as the filtrate.
Using fermented ingredients gained popularity in the early 2000s when brands looked for gentler yet effective actives inspired by food science. The filtrate from Pseudozyma epicola and olive oil made its way into cosmetic labs because it combines the nourishing feel of olive oil with the light texture that water based formulas need.
Today you can spot this ferment filtrate in facial serums, sheet masks, leave on moisturizers, anti aging lotions, hydrating gels, hair conditioners and scalp tonics. Formulators like it because it brings moisture without heaviness and leaves a soft finish.
Pseudozyma Epicola/Olive Fruit Oil Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient plays more than one role in a formula which makes it a versatile pick for both skin and hair products.
- Hair conditioning: Forms a light film on strands that smooths the cuticle so hair feels softer looks shinier and is easier to detangle
- Humectant: Attracts and holds water from the air helping skin stay hydrated longer and preventing that tight dry feel after cleansing
- Skin conditioning: Leaves a silky layer on the surface that improves texture supports the skin barrier and gives a healthy glow without an oily residue
Who Can Use Pseudozyma Epicola/Olive Fruit Oil Ferment Filtrate
Thanks to its light texture and water-loving nature this ferment filtrate suits most skin types, from dry or mature skin that craves extra moisture to oily or combination skin that dislikes heavy oils. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well because fermentation breaks the olive oil into smaller, gentler molecules. The main group that may need caution is anyone with a known allergy to olives or yeast-derived ingredients, as they could react to trace compounds left from the raw materials or the microbe.
The ingredient is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly since it is produced from plant oil and a microorganism, with no animal-derived substances involved at any step.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and the ferment filtrate is not known to penetrate deeply enough to pose systemic risk. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run new skincare products past a qualified healthcare provider to be on the safe side.
Pseudozyma Epicola/Olive Fruit Oil Ferment Filtrate does not increase photosensitivity and can be used in both day and night routines without raising the risk of sunburn.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Pseudozyma Epicola/Olive Fruit Oil Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The effects listed below are uncommon and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Redness or mild stinging in very reactive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to olives or yeast-derived compounds
- Temporary breakouts if combined with highly occlusive ingredients in acne-prone skin
- Scalp or skin itching in rare cases of microbiome imbalance
If you notice any of these issues stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for advice.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
The bulk of Pseudozyma Epicola/Olive Fruit Oil Ferment Filtrate is made up of water compatible peptides, sugars and lightweight glycerides produced during fermentation. The heavy triglycerides that can clog pores in raw olive oil are largely broken down or filtered out, leaving very little residue that might block follicles. This gives it a very low comedogenic profile.
Because the rating sits at 1 the ingredient is generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts, especially when used in well balanced formulas like gels, serums or light lotions.
Formulators sometimes pair the filtrate with richer emollients to add slip. If a product lists many occlusive oils or butters higher on the label, pore clogging risk may come from those companions rather than from the ferment filtrate itself.
Summary
Pseudozyma Epicola/Olive Fruit Oil Ferment Filtrate acts as a humectant, skin conditioner and hair conditioner. It attracts moisture, softens skin, smooths hair cuticles and does all of this with a barely there feel because fermentation reduces the oil to smaller, water friendly molecules.
While not a household name, the ingredient is gaining quiet popularity in K beauty inspired serums, scalp essences and lightweight moisturizers thanks to its silky finish and compatibility with most skin types.
Safety data so far shows a low irritation and allergy profile, with the main caution being for anyone who reacts to olives or yeast derivatives. As with any new skincare step it is wise to do a quick patch test before regular use to make sure your skin plays nicely with the formula.