Punica Granatum Fruit/Sucrose 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
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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 Punica Granatum Fruit/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate?

Punica Granatum Fruit/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate is made by letting pomegranate fruit and plain sugar sit together so that natural yeasts break them down. After this quiet fermentation finishes, the mix is filtered leaving a clear liquid rich in skin-friendly compounds. Pomegranate already offers vitamins, polyphenols and organic acids. Fermentation tweaks these molecules into smaller forms that skin can absorb more easily and it also produces extra antioxidants and gentle acids.

Traditional beauty practices in regions where pomegranates grow have long used the fruit’s juice and peel for brightening masks. Modern labs picked up on this heritage, tested the bioactive parts and learned that fermenting the fruit with sucrose boosts stability and potency. The resulting filtrate slid into cosmetic formulas in the early 2000s as brands searched for plant-based alternatives to synthetic antioxidants.

Because it is water-soluble and mild, Punica Granatum Fruit/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate shows up in a wide range of products. You will most often spot it in daily moisturizers, anti-aging serums, sheet masks, soothing after-sun gels and brightening essences. Some hair conditioners and scalp tonics also use it to help fight dullness caused by free radicals.

Punica Granatum Fruit/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

The key value of this ferment lies in its strong antioxidant activity which can upgrade many skin care formulas.

As an antioxidant it helps neutralize free radicals created by UV light, pollution and stress. By limiting this oxidative harm the filtrate supports a smoother complexion, keeps tone even and preserves the freshness of the overall product so it stays effective for longer.

Who Can Use Punica Granatum Fruit/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate

This ferment is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitive skin because it is water based and low in acids. Very reactive or allergy-prone skin should still proceed with caution if fruit sugars have caused issues before, but the risk is considered low.

Because the ingredient comes solely from pomegranate fruit, sucrose and naturally occurring yeast cultures, it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. No animal-derived substances or by-products are involved at any stage of production.

Current data suggests no specific hazards for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the filtrate is used topically and in the low percentages found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should confirm suitability with a healthcare professional before adding new products to their routine.

The filtrate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is safe for daytime use. As always daily sunscreen is recommended for general skin health.

The ingredient plays well with most other actives, including vitamin C, niacinamide and retinol, and does not affect the pH of finished formulas in any meaningful way.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Punica Granatum Fruit/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, yet most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is correctly formulated in a product.

  • Mild redness or warmth immediately after application
  • Temporary stinging on very dry or compromised skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to pomegranate or yeast derivatives
  • Rare increase in dryness if layered with several other exfoliating acids
  • Interaction-related sensitivity when used alongside high concentrations of benzoyl peroxide or retinoids in the same routine

If any discomfort or visible irritation occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Punica Granatum Fruit/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate is water based and contains no heavy oils or waxes that can block pores. Its molecules are mostly small antioxidants and fruit acids that dissolve easily in water and rinse away cleanly. Because of this the filtrate earns a solid zero on the comedogenic scale.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin

Since the ferment is also low in sugar once formulated, it does not leave a sticky film that might trap debris. The only time clogged pores could become a concern is if the filtrate sits in a very rich cream packed with other pore-clogging ingredients, in which case the base formula—not the ferment itself—would be the culprit.

Summary

Punica Granatum Fruit/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate works mainly as an antioxidant that mops up free radicals to keep skin looking smooth and even. Fermentation breaks pomegranate nutrients into smaller bits so they sink in faster and it adds gentle acids that lightly refine texture. The ingredient also helps protect the freshness of a formula so active ingredients stay potent longer.

While not as famous as green tea or vitamin C, this ferment is gaining traction as brands look for botanical options with a clean label. You will spot it most often in mid-range and boutique skin care lines that focus on fermented extracts.

Safety data shows it is well tolerated by almost all skin types with very low risk of irritation. Still, every skin is unique so patch test any new product that lists Punica Granatum Fruit/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate near the top of the label before applying it to your whole face.

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