Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Artemisia Princeps 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
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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 Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Artemisia Princeps Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate?

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Artemisia Princeps Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate is a fermented extract made from the essential oil of Artemisia princeps, a mugwort plant long valued in East Asian skin care. First the leaves are steam-distilled to collect their volatile oil rich in flavonoids, terpenes and coumarins. This oil is then combined with two friendly microbes, the yeast Kluyveromyces and the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus. During a controlled warm-temperature fermentation the microbes break down large aromatic molecules into smaller, more skin-friendly compounds and natural acids, while also producing peptides and antioxidants of their own. Once fermentation is complete the mixture is carefully filtered, leaving a clear watery filtrate packed with bioactive ingredients but free of live microbes. The technique gained popularity in Korean beauty labs in the early 2010s as part of the wider move toward fermented actives and has since spread to global cosmetic lines looking for gentle yet multifunctional plant extracts. You will most often see this filtrate in hydrating essences, soothing sheet masks, brightening serums, anti-aging creams, lightweight lotions, scalp and hair tonics, deodorizing body sprays and even post-shave balms.

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Artemisia Princeps Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This single ingredient brings a surprising range of benefits to a formula:

  • Antimicrobial: Helps keep the product itself fresh and can reduce surface bacteria on skin or scalp supporting a clearer appearance
  • Antioxidant: Supplies natural flavonoids and fermentation-derived peptides that neutralize free radicals helping defend against early signs of aging
  • Astringent: Provides a light tightening feel that can make pores look smaller and leave skin feeling refreshed
  • Bleaching: Gently interferes with excess melanin formation promoting a more even tone and reducing the look of dark spots over time
  • Fragrance: Delivers a subtle herbal aroma that can lessen the need for synthetic perfume in minimalist formulas
  • Hair Conditioning: Smooths the cuticle and supports a balanced scalp environment leading to softer shinier strands
  • Skin Conditioning: Adds lightweight hydration, soothes mild redness and leaves the surface feeling soft and supple

Who Can Use Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Artemisia Princeps Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Its watery texture makes it especially attractive to oily, combination and acne-prone complexions because it delivers antioxidants and light hydration without clogging pores. Dry or mature skin can still benefit, though pairing it with a richer cream may be necessary for lasting moisture. Sensitive skin usually handles the ingredient well thanks to the removal of most essential-oil irritants during fermentation, but anyone with known mugwort or ragweed allergies should proceed cautiously.

The material is produced from plant leaves and microorganisms with no animal-derived additives, so it is considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

There are no specific warnings for pregnancy or breastfeeding. The ferment contains no retinoids, salicylic acid or other ingredients commonly restricted during this time, but research is limited. This is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should run any new skincare product past their doctor just to be safe.

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Artemisia Princeps Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate is not known to increase photosensitivity, so special sun precautions beyond a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen are not required.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Artemisia Princeps Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects, yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.

  • Irritation mild stinging or redness can occur on very sensitive or compromised skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis rare rash or itching in individuals allergic to Artemisia species or other Asteraceae plants
  • Fragrance sensitivity the natural herbal aroma, while subtle, might bother those highly reactive to scents
  • Dryness or tightness overuse in high-alcohol toners could temporarily leave the skin feeling parched

If a negative reaction develops stop using the product immediately and contact a healthcare professional for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5. This ferment filtrate is almost entirely water with tiny molecules produced during fermentation, so it contains very little oil or wax that could block pores. Because it is light, quickly absorbed and non-occlusive it earns the lowest possible comedogenic score. That makes it a friendly option for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Formulas that blend it with heavier oils or butters could alter the overall pore-clogging risk, but the filtrate itself stays non-comedogenic.

Summary

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Artemisia Princeps Leaf Oil Ferment Filtrate works as an antioxidant, antimicrobial, gentle astringent, mild brightener, light fragrance note, scalp soother and overall skin conditioner. Fermentation turns mugwort leaf oil into a cocktail of small peptides, flavonoids and natural acids that calm redness, defend against free radicals, curb surface bacteria and give a refreshed feel without heaviness.

While not as famous as green tea or niacinamide the ingredient has carved a niche in Korean beauty toners, essences and hair mists and is slowly appearing in Western lines that favor fermented botanicals.

Current research and decades of mugwort use suggest it is safe for most users when included at standard cosmetic levels. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to patch test a fresh product first, just to make sure your skin agrees with it.

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