Pseudozyma Epicola/Nitrosomonas Europaea/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 Pseudozyma Epicola/Nitrosomonas Europaea/Oil Ferment Filtrate?

Pseudozyma Epicola/Nitrosomonas Europaea/Oil Ferment Filtrate is a bio-fermented blend created by letting two friendly microorganisms—Pseudozyma epicola and Nitrosomonas europaea—digest a mix of nourishing plant oils from olive fruit, sunflower seed, apricot kernel and sweet almond. After fermentation, the final liquid is carefully filtered, leaving behind a clear, lightweight filtrate packed with skin-loving compounds such as amino acids, polysaccharides, short-chain fatty acids and antioxidants that form during the fermentation process.

Fermented extracts first caught the beauty industry’s eye in the early days of K-beauty when brands noticed that the by-products of fermentation boosted moisture retention and glow. This particular filtrate is a newer entry that blends classic Mediterranean oils with biotech know-how, giving formulators a gentle ingredient that feels more elegant than raw oils and delivers extra skin benefits.

Production starts with high quality cold-pressed oils that are mixed in a bioreactor. The two microorganisms are introduced and allowed to work for several days under controlled temperature and pH. Once the oils are broken down into smaller, more bioavailable molecules, the mixture is filtered to remove the microbes, leaving a clear, odor-neutral liquid ready for cosmetic use.

Because of its light texture and multitasking properties, Pseudozyma Epicola/Nitrosomonas Europaea/Oil Ferment Filtrate shows up in moisturizers, soothing masks, after-sun gels, scalp serums, leave-in hair conditioners and premium anti-aging creams where a silky feel without a greasy finish is desired.

Pseudozyma Epicola/Nitrosomonas Europaea/Oil Ferment Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This fermented filtrate brings several perks to both skin and hair formulas.

  • Hair Conditioning: Smooths the hair cuticle, adds softness and helps reduce frizz while keeping strands light and bouncy
  • Skin Conditioning: Delivers lightweight moisture, improves skin feel and supports a supple, dewy complexion without clogging pores
  • Skin Protecting: Forms a breathable film that helps defend against environmental stressors and limits transepidermal water loss, aiding the skin’s natural barrier

Who Can Use Pseudozyma Epicola/Nitrosomonas Europaea/Oil Ferment Filtrate

This ferment filtrate is generally friendly to all skin types, including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin, thanks to its light texture and barrier-supporting properties. Those with very reactive or nut-related allergies should check the ingredient list of the finished product since the original oils include almond and apricot, although fermentation typically removes most allergenic proteins.

The ingredient is sourced from plant oils and microorganisms, with no animal-derived components or by-products, so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

Current safety data show no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the filtrate is used topically at standard cosmetic concentrations. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run new skincare products past their healthcare provider to be on the safe side.

Pseudozyma Epicola/Nitrosomonas Europaea/Oil Ferment Filtrate is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it does not increase the skin’s vulnerability to sunlight. Standard daily sunscreen use is still encouraged for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Pseudozyma Epicola/Nitrosomonas Europaea/Oil Ferment Filtrate can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects, most of which are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is formulated correctly.

  • Mild redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
  • Contact dermatitis in individuals with nut or seed oil allergies if residual proteins remain
  • Temporary scalp buildup or greasiness when overapplied in hair products
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes

If any of these effects occur discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5 (low likelihood of clogging pores)

Fermentation breaks the original plant oils into lighter short-chain fatty acids, amino acids and humectants, then the mixture is filtered to remove most of the heavier lipids that could block pores. The resulting fluid leaves only a thin breathable layer on the skin rather than an occlusive coating.

People who are prone to acne or breakouts can usually tolerate this ferment without problems, as long as the rest of the formula is also low on pore-clogging ingredients.

Because it is often paired with richer butters or silicones for extra slip, always look at the full ingredient list if congestion is a concern.

Summary

Pseudozyma Epicola/Nitrosomonas Europaea/Oil Ferment Filtrate acts as a lightweight skin and hair conditioner while offering a protective veil that helps limit moisture loss. Its mix of fermented peptides, polysaccharides and antioxidant molecules smooths the hair cuticle, softens skin and supports the barrier without a greasy feel.

Although still a niche biotech ingredient it is gaining traction in premium moisturizers, soothing masks and leave-in conditioners where brands want the benefits of classic oils in a fresher easier-to-absorb form.

Current data show it to be safe for most users, with a very low comedogenic score and minimal irritation risk. As with any new product it is smart to perform a quick patch test to confirm personal compatibility.

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