Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Paeonia Lactiflora Root 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/Paeonia Lactiflora Root Oil Ferment Filtrate?

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Paeonia Lactiflora Root Oil Ferment Filtrate is a fermented extract that starts with the oil from the roots of Paeonia lactiflora, better known as peony. Two friendly microbes, Kluyveromyces yeast and Lactobacillus bacteria, are added to that oil. As they feed on the natural sugars, proteins and lipids, they break them down into smaller parts that your skin can take in more easily. The finished liquid is then filtered to remove the microbes, leaving behind a clear, lightweight filtrate packed with antioxidants, mild acids and soothing fatty compounds.

The use of peony in beauty rituals goes back hundreds of years in East Asia where it was prized for brightening and calming the skin. Modern labs picked up on those stories and began fermenting peony root oil in the last decade to boost its potency and stability. Fermentation lowers the pH, adds skin-loving peptides and increases the level of free fatty acids, making the ingredient more effective than raw peony oil alone.

After the fermentation step, the broth is filtered, deodorized and standardized so every batch behaves the same in a formula. Because it is water-light and non greasy, formulators slip it into toners, essences, sheet masks, brightening serums, anti-aging creams, scalp tonics and leave-in hair treatments.

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Paeonia Lactiflora Root Oil Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multitasker brings several helpful actions to skin and hair care formulas:

  • Antioxidant – neutralizes free radicals from pollution or UV exposure which helps slow the look of premature aging and keeps the formula itself from going rancid
  • Astringent – provides a gentle tightening effect that can reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and give skin a smoother finish
  • Bleaching – supports a more even tone by softening the look of dark spots and post-blemish marks over time
  • Hair conditioning – coats strands with lightweight moisture, improving softness, shine and manageability without weighing hair down
  • Skin conditioning – adds a layer of hydration and delivers fermented nutrients that leave skin feeling supple and calm

Who Can Use Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Paeonia Lactiflora Root Oil Ferment Filtrate

This lightweight ferment suits nearly every skin type. Its non greasy texture and mild astringent action make it a natural fit for normal, combination and oily skin that wants hydration without extra shine. Sensitive or redness-prone skin generally tolerates it well thanks to its soothing peptides, though anyone with a known peony allergy should avoid it. Very dry skin can also benefit from its antioxidants and fatty acids but may need a richer cream on top to lock moisture in.

The ingredient is produced from plant root oil and microorganisms, with no animal-derived substances involved, so it is considered suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.

There is no published evidence that the filtrate poses risks during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Still, research on fermented botanical extracts in these groups is limited, so this information is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing users should check with a qualified healthcare professional before adding any new skincare product.

No data links this ferment to increased photosensitivity. Its antioxidant content may actually help defend the skin from UV stress, but daily sunscreen is still recommended for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Paeonia Lactiflora Root Oil Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The issues listed below are possible yet unlikely for most users when the ingredient is included at customary levels in well-formulated products.

  • Redness or mild burning sensation
  • Temporary stinging on very sensitive or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Dry or tight feel if overused in already dehydrated skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to peony or yeast derivatives
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
  • Exacerbated irritation when layered with strong acids or prescription retinoids

If any irritation, swelling or persistent discomfort occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 / 5. Although the starting material is an oil, the fermentation and filtration steps strip out most of the heavier, pore-clogging lipids and leave a largely water-based mix of antioxidants, small peptides and light fatty acids. This makes the filtrate far less likely to block pores than raw plant oils or richer butters.

Acne-prone or breakout-prone skin generally tolerates the ingredient well, so it can be used in routines focused on keeping pores clear.

Keep in mind that the finished product’s overall comedogenic potential also depends on the full formula and how occlusive the other ingredients are.

Summary

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Paeonia Lactiflora Root Oil Ferment Filtrate delivers antioxidant protection, gentle astringency, tone-evening support, plus conditioning benefits for both skin and hair. Fermentation breaks peony root oil into smaller molecules, lowers pH and boosts free fatty acids and peptides, which helps it neutralise free radicals, lightly tighten pores, fade discoloration and add soft hydration without heaviness.

Still an emerging player outside of K-beauty circles, it is gradually gaining traction in toners, essences and lightweight serums aimed at brightening and early-aging prevention. Safety data and user reports show a low irritation profile when formulated at customary levels, but as with any new cosmetic ingredient a short patch test is the smartest first step.

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