Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng 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/Panax Ginseng Seed Oil Ferment Filtrate?

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Seed Oil Ferment Filtrate is a fermented extract that starts with oil pressed from ginseng seeds. The oil is inoculated with two friendly microorganisms, Kluyveromyces yeast and Lactobacillus bacteria, then left to ferment under controlled temperature and pH. During this process the microbes break down bulky lipids and proteins into smaller molecules such as free fatty acids, peptides and bioactive sugars, creating a water-soluble filtrate rich in vitamins, minerals and ginsenoside metabolites. After fermentation the mixture is filtered to remove cell debris, leaving a clear liquid that blends easily into water-based or emulsified formulas.

Ginseng itself has been prized in East Asian skincare for centuries, but traditional extracts were oil-heavy and slow to absorb. Korean formulators began experimenting with seed oil fermentation in the early 2000s to improve texture and boost antioxidant levels. Success in spa ampoules and sheet masks quickly led to wider adoption, and today the filtrate appears in moisturizers, anti-aging serums, soothing gels, scalp tonics and leave-in hair conditioners where it offers a lightweight way to deliver ginseng benefits without greasy residue.

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Seed Oil Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skincare and haircare this multitasking ingredient supports overall barrier health and product stability through the following actions:

  • Antioxidant: Fermentation boosts ginseng’s natural polyphenols, helping neutralize free radicals that can accelerate dullness and fine lines which keeps formulas fresher for longer and skin looking brighter
  • Hair conditioning: Lightweight peptides and fatty acids coat the cuticle, adding softness and shine without weighing strands down making it suitable for daily conditioners or scalp treatments
  • Skin conditioning: Humectant sugars draw water into the upper layers while lipids reinforce the moisture barrier so skin feels supple and comfortable
  • Skin protecting: The blend forms a breathable film that shields against environmental stressors like pollution and micro-dust reducing redness and sensitivity over time

Who Can Use Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Seed Oil Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is gentle enough for most skin types. Dry and mature skin often welcome the extra fatty acids and humectants, while oily and combination skin appreciate the light water-like texture that does not feel greasy or clog pores. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because fermentation lowers the pH and breaks large molecules into smaller, less irritating pieces. People with a proven allergy to ginseng or yeast-derived ingredients should avoid it since the ferment still contains trace bio-residues that could trigger a reaction.

The material comes from plant seeds and is processed with microorganisms, not animals, making it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. No animal-based enzymes or by-products are used at any stage of production.

Current data shows no known issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women using this ingredient topically. It is not absorbed into the bloodstream in meaningful levels, and there are no reports of hormone disruption. Still, this is not medical advice so anyone expecting or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new products to their routine.

The filtrate does not cause photosensitivity. There is no need to limit sun exposure beyond normal daily sunscreen use. It also plays well with common actives like vitamin C, niacinamide and gentle exfoliating acids without destabilizing them.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to the topical use of Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Seed Oil Ferment Filtrate vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects and they are unlikely to occur for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed:

  • Mild redness or warmth
  • Temporary itching or tingling
  • Localized rash in those allergic to ginseng or yeast
  • Rare flare-up of fungal acne in extremely sensitive individuals

If any discomfort, swelling or persistent irritation develops stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

The filtrate is primarily water based and contains only trace amounts of residual seed lipids so it sits light on skin and rinses clean without forming pore blocking films. Fermentation further breaks down heavier fatty acids into smaller metabolites that are less likely to accumulate inside follicles. Because of that most users, including those prone to blackheads or cystic breakouts, find it non clogging.

Suitable for acne prone skin. Only extremely sensitive individuals who react to any fermented extract should proceed with caution.

Keep in mind that overall formula matters; if the product pairs this ferment with rich butters or waxes the final comedogenicity will depend on the full ingredient deck.

Summary

Kluyveromyces/Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Seed Oil Ferment Filtrate works as an antioxidant, skin and hair conditioner and lightweight protective agent. Fermentation turns ginseng seed oil into a nutrient packed water soluble liquid full of ginsenoside derivatives, humectant sugars and short chain fatty acids that soak in fast, quench dryness and defend against free radicals.

Thanks to its silky feel and multitasking benefits the ferment is a rising star in Korean beauty and slowly gaining traction in global serums, essences and scalp mists, though it is still less common than classic plant extracts.

Current data shows it to be low risk with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new cosmetic patch test on a discreet spot for a couple of days to make sure your skin plays nicely before fully committing.

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