What it is
This ingredient is the filtered liquid obtained by fermenting Job's tears seed (Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen) with the yeast Saccharomyces. In skincare and sunscreens it is used as a skin-conditioning ingredient and humectant, often promoted for a smooth, hydrated feel. Fermentation produces a blend of water-soluble small molecules from the seed and yeast.
Safety & warnings
Yeast-fermented seed filtrates are widely used in skincare and are generally well tolerated. As a botanical ferment, rare individual sensitivity is possible; it is not a recognized fragrance allergen and, being water-based, is not associated with comedogenicity.
Origin & sourcing
Natural in origin; derived from Job's tears seed fermented with Saccharomyces yeast, then filtered.
History
Job's tears (often called hatomugi in Japan) has a long history of use in East Asian food and traditional skincare, which carries over into its fermented cosmetic forms.
Questions everyone asks
What is this ferment filtrate made from?
It is made by fermenting Job's tears seed with the yeast Saccharomyces, then filtering to obtain the liquid, which is used as a skin-conditioning ingredient and humectant.
What are Job's tears?
Job's tears (Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen), often called hatomugi in Japan, is a grass whose seed has a long history in East Asian food and skincare.