Ingredient review
Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment Extract
INCI: AUREOBASIDIUM PULLULANS FERMENT EXTRACT
A gentle, biotech-derived yeast ferment that hydrates and soothes, ideal for sensitive and dry skin types.
In plain English
This ingredient is made by fermenting a type of black yeast called Aureobasidium pullulans. The fermentation process creates a mix of natural sugars (like pullulan) and other compounds that help your skin hold onto moisture and feel calmer. Think of it as a gentle, watery gel that sits on your skin and helps keep it hydrated without feeling heavy or sticky.
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment Extract is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment Extract.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A biotech ingredient produced by fermenting the yeast Aureobasidium pullulans. The resulting extract contains polysaccharides (especially pullulan), amino acids, and other bioactive compounds that benefit the skin.
How it works
It forms a thin, flexible film on the skin that reduces water loss (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL — the amount of moisture that escapes from your skin into the air). It also attracts water to the skin's surface, acting as a humectant. Some research suggests it may have mild antioxidant and soothing properties, helping to calm redness or irritation.
Pros
Gentle hydration
It provides moisture without feeling sticky or heavy, making it suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone.
Soothing properties
May help calm redness and irritation, which is especially helpful for sensitive skin or after exfoliation.
Cons and cautions
Limited standalone research
Most evidence comes from ingredient supplier studies or broader research on yeast ferments, not large independent human trials.
Variable potency
The quality and effectiveness can differ between brands depending on how the yeast is fermented and how the extract is processed.
Best for
- People with dry or dehydrated skin looking for gentle hydration
- Those with sensitive or easily irritated skin who want a soothing ingredient
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known allergy to yeast or fermented ingredients (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment Extract is considered safe for topical use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. Allergic reactions are very rare.
Research notes
Research on this specific ferment extract is moderate. Studies on pullulan (a key component) show it forms a flexible film that reduces water loss. Broader research on yeast ferments supports antioxidant and soothing benefits, but more human studies are needed to confirm all claims.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–5% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel. No specific restrictions in the US or EU.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Sheet masks, Eye creams
- Environmental note
- Produced via fermentation, which is a relatively low-impact biotech process. The yeast is grown in controlled conditions, reducing the need for land or water resources.
Good to know
- Aureobasidium pullulans is a black yeast commonly found in nature, and its ferment is considered a sustainable biotech ingredient.
- This ingredient is often used in 'clean beauty' formulations because it is produced via fermentation, a natural process.
Common questions
What is Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment Extract in beauty products?
This ingredient is made by fermenting a type of black yeast called Aureobasidium pullulans. The fermentation process creates a mix of natural sugars (like pullulan) and other compounds that help your skin hold onto moisture and feel calmer. Think of it as a gentle, watery gel that sits on your skin and helps keep it hydrated without feeling heavy or sticky.
What does Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment Extract do in a beauty product?
It forms a thin, flexible film on the skin that reduces water loss (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL — the amount of moisture that escapes from your skin into the air). It also attracts water to the skin's surface, acting as a humectant. Some research suggests it may have mild antioxidant and soothing properties, helping to calm redness or irritation.
Is Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment Extract safe for most people?
Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment Extract is considered safe for topical use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. Allergic reactions are very rare.
Who should be careful with Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment Extract?
Individuals with a known allergy to yeast or fermented ingredients (rare)
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.