Pleurotus Sajor-Caju 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 Pleurotus Sajor-Caju Ferment Filtrate?

Pleurotus Sajor-Caju Ferment Filtrate comes from the oyster mushroom species Pleurotus sajor-caju. Makers first grow the mushrooms under clean, food-grade conditions then let naturally occurring friendly microbes ferment them in a water-based solution. Once the fermentation is complete the liquid is filtered to remove mushroom pieces and microbes, leaving a clear nutrient-rich filtrate. This filtrate holds water-binding sugars, amino acids and small proteins that form during fermentation, giving it strong moisture-attracting power.

Interest in mushroom ferments for skin care grew in the early 2000s when brands searched for plant alternatives to animal-derived hydrators. Pleurotus sajor-caju stood out because it is easy to cultivate year-round and already popular in food. The filtrate now appears in moisturizers, hydrating serums, sheet masks, soothing after-sun gels and anti-aging creams where extra moisture is needed.

Pleurotus Sajor-Caju Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient offers one main benefit that makes it valuable in topical formulas.

Humectant: The filtrate pulls water from the air and from deeper skin layers toward the surface, helping to keep skin plump and smooth. In a product it supports a dewy finish, reduces the feel of tightness and can enhance the performance of other moisturizers like glycerin or hyaluronic acid.

Who Can Use Pleurotus Sajor-Caju Ferment Filtrate

This hydrating ferment suits most skin types. Dry and dehydrated skin benefit the most thanks to the added water retention while normal and combination skin appreciate the lightweight feel that never turns greasy. Oily skin can use it as well because the filtrate contains no fats that might clog pores. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it since the pH is skin friendly and the ferment lacks harsh solvents, though anyone with a known mushroom allergy should proceed with caution.

The ingredient is derived from a cultivated edible mushroom and fermented in water so it is free from animal by-products. That makes it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.

No studies suggest problems for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ferment is used topically, yet this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should show any new skincare product to their physician to be on the safe side.

The filtrate does not absorb UV light or increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, so it poses no risk of photosensitivity. It also plays well with most other cosmetic ingredients and has no known contraindications.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Pleurotus Sajor-Caju Ferment Filtrate differ from person to person. The issues listed below are possible yet unlikely when the ingredient is handled correctly during manufacturing and used as directed.

Allergic rash or hives

Redness or stinging on very reactive skin

Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to mushrooms or certain ferment by-products

Excess surface moisture leading to a soft, over-hydrated feel if layered too heavily under occlusive products

If any negative effect occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5. Pleurotus Sajor-Caju Ferment Filtrate is a water-based humectant with no oils or waxes so it does not create the sticky film that can trap dead cells and block pores. Its small molecules pull moisture in rather than sitting on top of skin which keeps it from contributing to blackheads or breakouts. This makes it a friendly choice for people who are prone to acne or congestion.

As with any ingredient the finished product matters. If the filtrate is blended with rich butters or heavy silicones the overall formula could still feel pore-clogging even though the ferment itself is not.

Summary

Pleurotus Sajor-Caju Ferment Filtrate’s main job in skin care is to act as a humectant. It attracts water into the upper layers of skin thanks to naturally occurring sugars amino acids and peptides formed during mushroom fermentation. The boost of hydration leaves skin looking plumper smoother and more comfortable while supporting the work of other moisturizers in a formula.

The ingredient is gaining modest popularity as brands look for plant-based alternatives to classic hydrators. It is still a niche choice compared with glycerin or hyaluronic acid yet its mushroom origin and clean story appeal to consumers interested in fermented beauty.

Safety data and real-world use show the filtrate is gentle for most people including those with sensitive or oily skin. Serious side effects are rare but everyone’s skin is different so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains Pleurotus Sajor-Caju Ferment Filtrate before applying it to the entire face.

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