What Is Bacillus/Silkworm Chrysalis Ferment Oil Extract Filtrate?
Bacillus/Silkworm Chrysalis Ferment Oil Extract Filtrate starts with the chrysalis of the silkworm Bombyx mori, a by-product of the silk industry. The chrysalises are rich in proteins, amino acids and lipids. Cosmetic chemists discovered that when these chrysalises are fermented with a friendly Bacillus strain, the process breaks down large molecules into smaller, skin-ready fragments while releasing lightweight oils. After fermentation, the mixture is pressed to collect the oil, then carefully filtered so that only the clear, active portion remains. The result is a silky liquid packed with moisturising factors, peptides and fatty acids that can sink easily into skin.
The idea of using silkworm leftovers gained traction in the early 2000s as brands looked for upcycled raw materials that combine performance with sustainability. Fermentation, a traditional method for creating foods such as yogurt or miso, offered a gentle way to boost the bioavailability of silk-derived nutrients without harsh solvents. Today the filtrate appears in a growing range of leave-on products including nourishing face creams, calming masks, anti-aging serums and hand lotions where a light yet replenishing touch is desired.
Bacillus/Silkworm Chrysalis Ferment Oil Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When added to a formula this fermented silk oil offers two main skin care perks:
- Humectant – helps draw water from the environment into the upper layers of the skin which supports lasting hydration, keeps the surface supple and can lessen the look of fine lines caused by dryness
- Skin conditioning – deposits amino acids and lipids that soften rough patches strengthen the skin barrier and leave the complexion feeling smooth and comfortable
Who Can Use Bacillus/Silkworm Chrysalis Ferment Oil Extract Filtrate
This fermented silk oil filtrate suits most skin types. Dry, normal and mature skins tend to love the mix of humectant hydration and barrier-friendly lipids. Combination and oily complexions can also benefit because the filtrate absorbs quickly and feels light, though people who clog easily may prefer formulas that pair it with non-occlusive textures.
The ingredient is an animal by-product since it begins with silkworm chrysalis, so it is not considered vegan or vegetarian friendly even though it upcycles a waste stream from the silk industry.
No specific data links the filtrate to risks during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and it is used at low topical levels that remain on the outer skin. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run all skincare products past a qualified health professional to be safe.
Bacillus/Silkworm Chrysalis Ferment Oil Extract Filtrate has no known photosensitising effect, so it will not increase sun sensitivity. It can be used morning or night under sunscreen without concern.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Bacillus/Silkworm Chrysalis Ferment Oil Extract Filtrate vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions that are considered uncommon. When the ingredient is formulated correctly most users will experience none of these issues.
- Allergic response – people with allergy to silk proteins or insect by-products could develop redness itching or swelling
- Mild irritation – stinging or burning may occur on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Contact dermatitis – rare inflammatory rash if the immune system reacts to peptides in the filtrate
- Breakouts – those highly prone to acne might notice clogged pores if the overall formula is too rich for their skin
- Contamination-related infection – extremely unlikely but possible if a finished product is poorly preserved since the ingredient starts as a biological ferment
If a negative reaction develops stop use immediately and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. The filtrate is made from lightweight fermented oils and small peptides that absorb quickly without forming a heavy film. It contains mostly short chain fatty acids rather than the thicker waxes often blamed for clogged pores, so the likelihood of blocking follicles is low. Still, because it is derived from an oil phase and every skin is different, a faint chance of congestion remains.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in most cases.
Formulators often combine this filtrate with gel or lotion bases that further reduce any pore-clogging risk, making it an easy addition to products aimed at combination complexions.
Summary
Bacillus/Silkworm Chrysalis Ferment Oil Extract Filtrate acts mainly as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent. Fermentation breaks down the silkworm chrysalis into bite-sized peptides and releases lightweight oils rich in amino acids and fatty acids. These molecules pull water into the upper skin layers then reinforce the barrier so moisture stays put, leaving skin soft flexible and comfortable.
The ingredient is still a niche player compared with big-name hydrators like hyaluronic acid, yet its upcycled origin and silky feel are winning fans in K-beauty style serums and creams.
Topically it is considered safe at the low percentages used in cosmetics with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new skincare product it is smart to patch test first to make sure your skin plays nicely with the formula.