Fermented green tea OIL

Produced by fermenting tea seed oil using a yeast culture. The fermentation process converts some of the lipids into smaller, more readily utilised components and may improve the oil's sensory profile. The result is a lighter emollient rich in unsaturated fatty acids and natural antioxidants, intended primarily for facial oils, serums and restorative emulsions.

Fermented green tea OIL softens the skin's surface, replenishes lipids and helps reduce water loss. The oil phase smooths dry flakes and improves suppleness, while phenolic compounds from tea seeds contribute to antioxidant protection. Fermentation may reduce the greasy feel and improve spreadability. However, this is not the same ingredient as an aqueous extract of green tea leaves rich in EGCG.

We recommend it for dry, normal, mature and dehydrated skin, or in light emulsions for combination skin. It may also be suitable for sensitive skin if the formulation is fragrance-free. For very oily or acne-prone skin, it is important to use a low concentration and assess the comedogenic potential of the entire oil blend.

Analysis of tea seed oil showed a high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids, as well as moisturising, antioxidant, antibacterial and UV-protective properties in laboratory tests (BioResources, 2024). The study assessed the base oil, not this specific fermented blend, so the findings indicate the potential of the base ingredient rather than a guaranteed clinical effect of the finished product.

The concentration used depends on the product type and the supplier's recommendations, often around 1 to 10 per cent. The ingredient is best added at a lower temperature, protected from light and oxidation, and combined with antioxidants. A patch test is recommended for sensitive skin.

When using oils in skincare, the amount matters. A few drops on slightly damp skin will usually feel more comfortable than a thick layer on completely dry skin. Oil provides the emollient part of a skincare routine but does not supply water itself, so it is often combined with a hydrating serum. Oxygen, light and heat affect stability, making suitable packaging an essential part of quality. A well-chosen antioxidant also helps protect against oxidation.