Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Camellia Japonica Seed 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/Camellia Japonica Seed Oil Ferment Filtrate?

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Camellia Japonica Seed Oil Ferment Filtrate starts with camellia japonica seeds, prized in East Asia for their silky oil. The seeds are pressed to release the oil, then two friendly microbes, Kluyveromyces yeast and Lactobacillus bacteria, are added. These microorganisms eat, break down and transform parts of the oil during a controlled fermentation. After the process finishes, the mix is filtered to remove the microbes, leaving a clear liquid packed with smaller, more skin-friendly molecules.

Fermentation boosts natural antioxidants, fatty acids and amino acids already present in camellia oil, making the final filtrate richer and easier for skin and hair to absorb. The ingredient rose to popularity within Korean beauty labs that look for gentler plant based actives. Its success in lightweight serums and masks soon spread to global formulations focused on glow and scalp care.

Today you will spot this ferment in hydrating toners, anti aging serums, soothing moisturizers, wash-off and leave-on masks, scalp treatments and shine-boosting hair conditioners.

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Camellia Japonica Seed Oil Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Formulators turn to this ferment for a trio of helpful actions

  • Antioxidant: Helps neutralize free radicals generated by sun and pollution which can dull skin tone and weaken hair strands, keeping skin looking brighter and hair more resilient
  • Skin conditioning: Supplies lightweight fatty acids and amino acids that soften rough spots, support the skin barrier and add a healthy looking glow without greasy feel
  • Hair conditioning: Smooths the cuticle surface, reduces frizz and adds natural shine while feeling lighter than many traditional oils so it suits fine to thick hair types

Who Can Use Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Camellia Japonica Seed Oil Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is generally well tolerated by all skin types including dry sensitive and mature skin thanks to its lightweight texture and barrier friendly fatty acids. Oily and acne prone complexions usually tolerate it too because fermentation breaks the original oil into smaller molecules that feel less greasy. People with a known allergy to camellia oil or probiotic ingredients should avoid it as a precaution.

The ingredient is sourced from plant seeds and fermented with non animal microorganisms so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian preferences when used in formulas that avoid animal derived additives.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women are not restricted from topical antioxidants like this ferment but individual circumstances differ. This information is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run all skincare products past a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Camellia Japonica Seed Oil Ferment Filtrate is not known to cause photosensitivity and can be used in morning or night routines. As with any new active its concentration and the overall product formula may influence how it feels on very reactive skin.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Camellia Japonica Seed Oil Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects that could occur although most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild irritation such as redness or stinging in very sensitive skin
  • Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to camellia seed oil yeast or soy like proteins
  • Scalp buildup or greasy feel if applied in high concentrations on fine hair
  • Breakouts in highly acne prone skin if the final product also contains heavier occlusives
  • Rare fermentation by product sensitivity in people reactive to probiotic ingredients

If you experience any of these reactions discontinue use and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

This low score comes from the fact that camellia seed oil already sits on the lighter end of the spectrum and fermentation further breaks down its fatty acids into smaller molecules that absorb quickly instead of lingering on the surface. Most formulas using this filtrate feel weightless and do not clog pores on their own. However highly occlusive companions like heavy butters or waxes in the same product could still raise the overall pore-clogging potential.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in most cases.

Texture, percentage used and the rest of the ingredient deck will ultimately decide how “pore friendly” the finished product is so always look at the full formula if congestion is a concern.

Summary

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Camellia Japonica Seed Oil Ferment Filtrate acts as an antioxidant that shields skin and hair from free radical damage while delivering lightweight fatty acids and amino acids that smooth texture and boost softness. On hair it settles the cuticle for shine and easier detangling, on skin it reinforces the barrier for a supple glow. Fermentation unlocks smaller, more bioavailable molecules which explains its gentle yet noticeable performance.

First championed by Korean beauty brands, the ingredient is gradually popping up in global serums, toners and scalp treatments though it still counts as a niche “ferment” rather than a mainstream staple.

Current safety data shows very low irritation risk for most users. As with any new active it is wise to perform a quick patch test when trying a product that features this filtrate just to make sure your skin or scalp agrees with it.

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