Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Abies Grandis Leaf Oil 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
Share:
Inside this article:

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 Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Abies Grandis Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate?

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Abies Grandis Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate is a skin care ingredient born from the fusion of plant power and modern biotechnology. It starts with the aromatic leaf oil of the grand fir tree Abies grandis, prized for its fresh forest scent and natural antioxidant compounds. Cosmetic chemists submit this essential oil to a controlled fermentation using two friendly microorganisms: the yeast Kluyveromyces and the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus. During fermentation the microbes break down larger molecules into smaller, more skin compatible components and enrich the mixture with additional peptides, organic acids and antioxidants. Once fermentation is complete the liquid is filtered to remove any remaining cells, yielding a clear stable filtrate that slips easily into cosmetic formulas.

The idea of fermenting plant oils for beauty products emerged in the past decade as brands searched for gentler yet more potent alternatives to raw essential oils. Fermentation lowers potential irritants, boosts bioavailability and adds new skin beneficial metabolites, making the process popular in Korean and Japanese skin care labs before spreading worldwide. Today Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Abies Grandis Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate can be spotted in lightweight serums, soothing moisturizers, anti aging creams, clarifying masks, scalp tonics and even brightening spot treatments.

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Abies Grandis Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

When blended into a formula this multitasking ferment brings several helpful actions:

  • Antimicrobial – helps keep unwanted bacteria and fungi in check on the skin or scalp which can support a clearer look and improve product preservation
  • Antioxidant – supplies compounds that neutralize free radicals, protecting skin lipids and proteins from environmental stress for a fresher, more resilient appearance
  • Bleaching – gently interferes with excess melanin formation, assisting with brightening dull areas and evening out tone
  • Hair conditioning – smooths the cuticle, adds softness and reduces static for shinier, more manageable strands
  • Skin conditioning – imparts light hydration, calms minor irritation and leaves the surface feeling soft and supple

Who Can Use Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Abies Grandis Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is generally friendly to all skin types. Its lightweight texture suits oily and combination skin while the added antioxidants and calming compounds make it helpful for dry or mature skin that needs extra support. Sensitive skin often tolerates it well since fermentation reduces many of the harsher components found in raw essential oils, yet anyone with a known allergy to conifer oils should approach with caution and read labels carefully.

The ingredient is produced from plant leaf oil and two non-animal microorganisms so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian standards. No animal-derived enzymes or by-products are used during the fermentation or filtration steps.

There is no specific research suggesting problems for pregnant or breastfeeding women at the typical skincare levels used. Even so this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should discuss new products with a healthcare professional to be on the safe side.

The filtrate is not known to increase photosensitivity so daytime use alongside sunscreen is perfectly fine. It layers well with most common actives such as niacinamide or hyaluronic acid and does not disturb makeup wear.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Abies Grandis Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions only and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild stinging or burning on very compromised skin
  • Redness or itching in individuals allergic to fir tree extracts
  • Contact dermatitis if applied to broken or abraded areas
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally migrates into the eyes
  • Increased sensitivity when layered immediately after strong acids or retinoids

If any discomfort or persistent irritation occurs stop use and consult a qualified medical professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5 (very low)

This filtrate is water like and contains only trace amounts of the original fir oil, so it does not form a heavy film or block pores. Fermentation breaks large oil molecules into smaller skin friendly fragments that rinse away easily, making it close to non-comedogenic.

People who are prone to acne or breakouts can generally use products with this ferment without added concern.

The overall pore-clogging potential of a finished product still depends on the other ingredients in the formula, so check the full list if you are very breakout sensitive.

Summary

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Abies Grandis Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate supplies antimicrobial protection, antioxidant defense, gentle bleaching for dark spots and light conditioning for both skin and hair. These benefits come from small bioactive molecules and organic acids produced during the two step fermentation of grand fir leaf oil.

It is still a niche player outside of East Asian beauty lines but its multitasking nature and mildness are helping it show up in more global serums, creams and scalp tonics.

Current data and real world use point to a low risk of irritation or pore issues at normal cosmetic levels. Even so, a quick patch test is smart whenever you introduce a new product that contains this ingredient.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search