Candida Bombicola/Canola Oil/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate Extract: 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: June 24, 2025
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All information on this page is verified using The Personal Care Products Council's (PCPC) INCI database. Our ingredient analyses are based exclusively on PCPC's technical data to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Candida Bombicola/Canola Oil/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate Extract?

Candida Bombicola/Canola Oil/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate Extract starts with two plant oils, canola and rice bran, that are rich in fatty acids. These oils are placed in a controlled tank with a friendly yeast called Candida bombicola. As the yeast feeds on the oils it makes natural surface-active molecules known as sophorolipids. Once the fermentation finishes the liquid is filtered, leaving a clear extract that carries those gentle cleansing compounds as well as small amounts of soothing plant lipids and sugars.

The process is fairly new in beauty labs, gaining attention in the past decade as brands look for greener options. Because it is made through fermentation it fits well with the clean beauty push toward bio-based ingredients.

Formulators like this extract because it behaves a bit like soap yet is milder. You will spot it in foaming facial cleansers, purifying masks, anti-blemish spot treatments, micellar waters and even lightweight moisturizers aimed at oily or combination skin.

Candida Bombicola/Canola Oil/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multitasking ferment helps products work better while keeping formulas gentle on skin.

  • Anti-Sebum: Helps cut down excess oil on the skin surface so the complexion looks fresher and stays matte longer
  • Antimicrobial: Limits the growth of odor-causing or pore-clogging microbes which supports clearer skin and extends product shelf life naturally
  • Cleansing: Acts as a mild surfactant that lifts dirt makeup and daily grime without stripping the skin’s protective barrier

Who Can Use Candida Bombicola/Canola Oil/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate Extract

Because it balances oil without stripping, this ferment suits oily and combination skin best but it is gentle enough for normal and mildly sensitive skin too. Very dry or compromised skin could feel a little tight if the final formula lacks richer moisturizers, so look for products that pair the ferment with nourishing lipids if dryness is a concern.

The ingredient is created from plant oils and a non-animal yeast so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.

No specific warnings have been issued for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should have a doctor review their full routine before use just to play it safe.

It does not make skin more reactive to sunlight and there are no known ingredient conflicts worth flagging.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Candida Bombicola/Canola Oil/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate Extract differ from person to person. The points below list potential but uncommon effects when the ingredient is formulated and used as intended.

  • Irritation – temporary redness or stinging, more likely if skin is already sensitized
  • Allergic contact dermatitis – rare rash or swelling in people allergic to yeast or specific plant lipids
  • Dryness or tightness – possible on very dry skin if the overall product lacks adequate emollients
  • Eye discomfort – mild watering or burning if a cleanser containing the ferment is not fully rinsed from the eye area

If any uncomfortable reaction appears stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

The ferment filtrate is made mostly of water soluble sophorolipids that rinse away easily so they are unlikely to build up inside pores. It contains only trace levels of the original plant oils and those are largely converted during fermentation which keeps the clogging risk low. For these reasons it scores a 1 rather than a perfect 0. It is therefore generally suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts.

The final formula still matters. Heavy creams or balms that include this ferment alongside richer oils could raise the overall pore-clogging potential even if the ferment itself is light.

Summary

Candida Bombicola/Canola Oil/Rice Bran Ferment Filtrate Extract is a bio-derived helper that cuts surface oil, keeps unwanted microbes in check and cleans skin without harshness thanks to its naturally formed sophorolipids. These mild surfactants lift dirt while the small leftover plant lipids give a touch of softness.

The ferment is gaining traction in green beauty but it is not yet as common as classic cleansers like coco-glucoside or sodium lauryl sarcosinate. Expect to see it pop up more in oil-balancing gels, foaming face washes and spot treatments as brands look for eco alternatives.

Overall safety is high with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is smart to patch test a fresh product on a small area first to check for personal sensitivity.

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