Pseudozyma Epicola/Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil Ferment Filtrate is a biotechnological ingredient derived from the fermentation of Argan oil using the yeast Pseudozyma epicola. This filtrate is known for its moisturizing, nourishing, and antioxidant properties, making it beneficial for skin and hair care formulations.

Chemical Composition and Structure

The chemical composition of Pseudozyma Epicola/Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil Ferment Filtrate includes:

• Fatty Acids: Derived from Argan oil, including oleic acid and linoleic acid, which provide moisturizing benefits.
• Antioxidants: Compounds produced during fermentation that enhance the protective properties of the extract.
• Vitamins: Particularly Vitamin E, known for its skin-nourishing and protective effects.

Structurally, this filtrate consists of a complex mixture of bioactive compounds that work synergistically to provide beneficial effects on the skin and hair.

Physical Properties

• Appearance: Typically a light yellow to amber liquid.
• Solubility: Soluble in water and oil, making it versatile for various formulations.
• pH: Generally neutral to slightly acidic, depending on the fermentation process.
• Odor: Mild, natural aroma characteristic of fermented oils.
• Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions but should be kept away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Production Process

• Fermentation: Argan oil is subjected to fermentation using the yeast Pseudozyma epicola, which enhances the oil's bioactive properties.
• Filtration: After fermentation, the mixture is filtered to obtain the active filtrate, removing yeast residues and impurities.
• Formulation: The filtrate is incorporated into cosmetic and personal care products, often combined with other ingredients to enhance performance and stability.

Applications

• Medical: Used in some formulations for its skin-nourishing and protective properties.
• Cosmetics: Commonly included in moisturizers, serums, and hair care products for its hydrating and antioxidant effects.

INCI Functions:

Hair conditioning agent. A significant number of ingredients with specific and targeted purposes may co-exist in hair shampoo formulations: cleansers, conditioners, thickeners, matting agents, sequestering agents, fragrances, preservatives, special additives. However, the indispensable ingredients are the cleansers and conditioners as they are necessary and sufficient for hair cleansing and manageability. The others act as commercial and non-essential auxiliaries such as: appearance, fragrance, colouring, etc. Hair conditioning agents have the task of increasing shine, manageability and volume, and reducing static electricity, especially after treatments such as colouring, ironing, waving, drying and brushing. They are, in practice, dispersants that may contain cationic surfactants, thickeners, emollients, polymers. The typology of hair conditioning agents includes: intensive conditioners, instant conditioners, thickening conditioners, drying conditioners. They can perform their task generally accompanied by other different ingredients.

Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.

• Industrial Uses: Limited applications, primarily in natural product formulations.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Pseudozyma Epicola/Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil Ferment Filtrate is generally regarded as safe for topical application in cosmetics when used according to recommended guidelines. However, individuals with sensitivities to fermented ingredients should exercise caution. Responsible sourcing and fermentation practices are essential to ensure that the filtrate is free from harmful contaminants and produced sustainably.