What Is Pseudozyma Epicola/Macadamia Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate?
Pseudozyma Epicola/Macadamia Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate starts with macadamia seed oil, a rich plant oil known for its fatty acids and antioxidant compounds. Cosmetic chemists let the friendly yeast Pseudozyma epicola ferment the oil. During fermentation the yeast breaks down some of the larger oil molecules and produces smaller skin friendly substances like humectant sugars, amino acids and lightweight lipids. Once the fermentation finishes the mixture is filtered so only the water based extract and tiny bioactive fragments remain. The result is a fluid ingredient that blends comfortably into modern skin and hair formulas.
Fermented oils began turning heads in Korean beauty labs in the early 2010s. Brands noticed that fermentation could make heavy oils feel lighter while adding extra moisture binding power. Pseudozyma epicola proved especially good at this task with macadamia oil. Today the filtrate is used by formulators who want the nourishment of an oil without the greasy feel.
You will spot Pseudozyma Epicola/Macadamia Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate in leave on moisturizers, silky serums, sheet masks, soothing after sun gels, lightweight lotions and conditioning hair products such as masks and creams.
Pseudozyma Epicola/Macadamia Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker supports both product stability and the look and feel of skin and hair
- Emulsion stabilising: Helps keep water and oil phases mixed so creams stay smooth from the first pump to the last
- Hair conditioning: Coats strands with a thin film that adds softness, reduces tangles and gives a healthy shine without weight
- Humectant: Attracts and holds water on the skin surface which boosts immediate hydration and helps plump fine lines
- Skin conditioning: Leaves skin feeling velvety and supple thanks to fermented lipids that mimic the skin’s own surface oils
Who Can Use Pseudozyma Epicola/Macadamia Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate
The filtrate’s light texture and water binding ability make it friendly to most skin types, from very dry to oily. Dry and mature skin often appreciate the extra humectancy while oily or combination skin benefit from the non greasy feel. Sensitive skin usually tolerates the ingredient because the fermentation removes many heavier compounds that can cause congestion or irritation. Extremely acne prone users who are reactive to any added lipids should still monitor how their skin responds but the risk of clogged pores is low.
The ingredient is produced from macadamia seed oil and a non animal yeast so it is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. No animal derived materials are involved in its manufacture.
Current data shows no hormonal activity so products containing this ferment are generally considered safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should ask their physician before introducing new skincare just to be safe.
Pseudozyma Epicola/Macadamia Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there are no special timing restrictions for day use. It also plays well with common actives like vitamin C, niacinamide and retinoids without destabilising them.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Pseudozyma Epicola/Macadamia Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate differ from person to person. The points below cover potential issues yet they are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is correctly formulated in a finished product.
- Allergic skin reaction such as redness itching or rash
- Mild stinging or burning on compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Rare breakouts on very acne prone or malassezia sensitive skin
- Sensitivity to preservatives or other co-ingredients in the same formula
If any of these effects occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 – The filtrate contains only trace amounts of lightweight fermented lipids and mainly water-soluble humectant molecules so it rarely blocks pores. The parent macadamia oil is more occlusive but most of the heavier triglycerides are removed during fermentation and filtration. Suitable for acne-prone skin in most cases
Because the ingredient also carries some yeast-derived fractions it is unlikely to feed the malassezia species that drive fungal acne, which further lowers its clogging risk.
Summary
Pseudozyma Epicola/Macadamia Seed Oil Ferment Extract Filtrate acts as an emulsion stabiliser, humectant, skin conditioner and hair softener. Fermentation breaks macadamia oil into smaller molecules that bind water, smooth skin texture and add slip to hair while the remaining lipids reinforce the skin barrier and reduce moisture loss.
The ferment trend that began in K-beauty made this ingredient a boutique favourite among formulators looking for a lighter alternative to straight plant oils yet it is still not as mainstream as classics like glycerin or hyaluronic acid.
Current safety data shows a low irritation profile and no hormonal concerns. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is smart to patch test a fresh product containing this ferment before regular use to rule out personal sensitivities.