DNA Repair Enzymes in Skin Care

DNA repair enzymes are gaining popularity in antiaging skincare products. These powerful enzymes work at the cellular level to repair damage caused by environmental stressors like UV radiation, pollution, and more. Incorporating DNA enzymes into your regimen can help maintain youthful, healthy skin while preventing future damage. This blog will explore what DNA enzymes are, how they function, and which ingredients and products to look for when shopping for skincare that supports DNA repair.. These naturally occurring proteins play a vital role in protecting our skin from the damaging effects of UV radiation and other environmental stressors.

In this blog, we will discuss who should use DNA repair enzymes in skin care products, explore their benefits, and discuss how to effectively integrate them into your skincare routine.

DNA Repair

DNA repair is a crucial biological process that corrects DNA damage, which can arise from sources like UV light, pollution, free radicals, and chemicals. This process operates through a series of steps, each facilitated by specific enzymes:

Detection : Enzymes such as DNA glycosylases scan DNA to identify errors.

Excision : Enzymes like endonucleases remove the damaged DNA segment by cutting it out.

Replacement : DNA polymerases synthesize a correct sequence to replace the excised segment, similar to swapping a faulty Lego brick.

Ligation : DNA ligases rejoin the new segment to the original DNA strand, restoring its integrity.

Different organisms have distinct DNA repair enzymes tailored to their unique environmental exposures and cellular processes.

What are DNA Repair Enzymes?

DNA repair enzymes are specialized proteins that identify and correct damage to the DNA within our skin cells. There are several types of DNA repair enzymes, each with unique functions and origins. I discuss these later in this blog.

Best Skincare Products with DNA Repair Enzymes

Cleansers

While some cleansers may contain DNA repair enzymes, it is important to note that these products typically do not stay on the skin long enough to provide significant repair benefits.

Serums

For best results, apply serums with DNA Repair Enzymes to clean skin after cleansing with warm water, which increases blood flow to the area, enhancing enzyme penetration. Follow with a moisturizer to create an occlusive layer that helps drive the enzymes deeper into the skin, optimizing their repair effects.

Photozyme Youth Recovery DNA Repair Serum is my favorite dermatologist recommended DNA repair enzyme serum. But there are many good ones.

Moisturizers

Some moisturizers contain DNA repair enzymes but they do not penetrate as well as serums. I tell my patients to apply a serum with DNA repair enzymes and cover it with a moisturizer that matches their Baumann Skin Type.

Rationale #5 The Gel-Creme is a light moisturizer designed for oily skin types that supports DNA repair and enhances skin resilience. It contains these ingredients to promote DNA repair:

Micrococcus Lysate : Enzyme that repairs UV-damaged DNA.

Bifida Ferment Lysate : Ferment that strengthens skin barrier and repair.

Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract : Marine extract that promotes skin regeneration.

Hydrolyzed DNA : DNA fragments that support skin repair.

Acetyl Hexapeptide-51 Amide : Peptide that boosts DNA repair energy.

Arabidopsis Thaliana Extract : Plant extract aiding in DNA repair.

Rationale #6 The Night Cream is an elegant moisturizer designed for dry skin that repairs the skin barrier and supports DNA repair. This luxurious cream includes the following DNA repair ingredients:

Bifida Ferment Lysate : Ferment that strengthens skin barrier and repair.

Hydrolyzed DNA : DNA fragments that support skin repair.

Hydrolyzed RNA : RNA fragments that help in skin regeneration.

Micrococcus Lysate : Enzyme that repairs UV-damaged DNA.

Arabidopsis Thaliana Extract : Plant extract aiding in DNA repair.

Acetyl Hexapeptide-51 Amide : Peptide that boosts DNA repair energy.

These ingredients work together to enhance the skin’s natural repair processes, making this cream an excellent choice for those looking to repair and rejuvenate dry, damaged skin.

Sunscreens

Sunscreens containing DNA repair enzymes provide an extra layer of protection against UV-induced DNA damage. These products not only block UV rays from reaching the skin but also help repair any damage that may occur. Look for sunscreens that contain photolyase or endonuclease enzymes for optimal DNA repair benefits. Your skin focuses on repair processes at night, so while these sunscreens are good, you really need DNA repair at night.

Eye Creams

Rationale #6 The Eye Crème is an elegant eye treatment designed for all skin types, particularly beneficial for delicate under-eye areas, repairing the barrier and aiding in DNA repair. This luxurious eye crème includes the following DNA repair ingredients:

Arabidopsis Thaliana Extract : Plant extract aiding in DNA repair.

Micrococcus Lysate : Enzyme that repairs UV-damaged DNA.

These ingredients work together to enhance the skin’s natural repair processes, making this eye crème ideal for rejuvenating and protecting the sensitive skin around the eyes.

DNA Repair Enzymes in Your Skincare Routine

To maximize the benefits of DNA repair enzymes, it is essential to incorporate them into your skincare routine strategically. They are best used in the night routine but can also be used in your morning routine.

For optimal results, consider using a DNA repair enzyme serum after any prolonged sun exposure (over 30 minutes of direct sun) to help repair any potential damage.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for an evening skincare routine that includes DNA repair enzymes:

Step 1: Cleanse

Begin by thoroughly cleansing your skin with a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type. This step removes dirt, oil, and impurities, preparing your skin for the subsequent products.

Step 2: Eye Cream

Apply a nourishing eye cream to address any specific concerns around the delicate eye area, such as fine lines, puffiness, or dark circles. You can choose one with DNA repair enzymes or use the same serum as step 3.

Step 3: DNA Repair Enzyme Serum

Apply a concentrated serum containing DNA repair enzymes to your face and neck. Allow the serum to absorb fully into your skin before moving on to the next step. The Photozyme Vitamin C+E Ferulic Acid Serum with DNA repair enzymes is an excellent choice for this step, as it combines the benefits of antioxidants and DNA repair enzymes.

Step 4: Moisturizer

Follow up with a moisturizer to hydrate and protect your skin. Look for a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type and contains additional beneficial ingredients, such as antioxidants or skin-restoring peptides.

Step 5: Retinoids or a Retinoid Alternative

See our directions when you build your custom skin care routine using our skin care regimen builder.

In some cases you may want to cycle your step 3 serum using various different antiaging products. Once you take the quiz, our custom monthly emails can help guide you on how to cycle skin care products for your skin type.

Maximize Effectiveness

Combine with ingredients that boost cellular energy like:

Niacinamide

Ubiquinone

NAD

Comparison to other Antiaging Ingredients

Follow our specific skin type recommendations to know if DNA enzymes or other antiaging ingredients are best for you because there are many choices that include antioxidants, growth factors, retinoids and other aging prevention ingredients and ingredients that restore collagen or prevent sagging skin. There are many types of antiaging ingredients that you may want to use instead of DNA repair enzymes or together with these repair enzymes such as:

Ascorbic acid- antioxidant and increases collagen and inhibits tyrosinase

Glycosaminoglycans- plump skin and help with cell signaling

Growth factors- restore collagen

Peptides- restore collagen and make skin feel firm.

Retinoids- These are my favorite antiaging ingredients and can be combined and used together with DNA repair enzymes.

Let us help you build a personalized skin care routine to find the best antiaging products to meet your unique skin concerns.

Types of DNA Repair Enzymes

There are many types of DNA repair enzymes found in skin care products such as sunscreens, serums, moisturizers, and supplements. Below I list the source, mechanism of action and INCI name found on the skin care product label for each DNA repair enzyme found in skin care products.

Photolyase

INCI Name : Photolyase

Mechanism of Action: Photolyase binds to damaged DNA and, upon absorption of visible light, uses this energy to break the bonds of the dimer caused by UV light, effectively reversing the damage.

Source : Derived from plankton extract, photolyase is commonly found in marine organisms and is adapted to repairing damage caused by solar radiation.

Endonucleases

Endonucleases in skincare products function by recognizing and cutting damaged DNA at specific sites to initiate repair processes. Endonucleases scan the DNA for damage caused by environmental factors like UV light. Upon identifying damaged or mismatched DNA segments, they make precise cuts near these sites. This action allows for the removal of damaged sections, enabling the cellular machinery to fill in the gaps with correct nucleotides, thus restoring the DNA’s integrity. Here’s the details of each commonly used endonuclease in skincare:

Micrococcus Endonuclease (Micrococcus Lysate)

Source : Derived from the bacterium Micrococcus luteus.

INCI Name : Micrococcus Lysate

T4 Endonuclease V

Source : Originally from Escherichia coli infected with bacteriophage T4.

INCI Name : None (commonly referred to by its enzyme name, sometimes encapsulated in liposomes for skincare formulations).

UV Endonuclease

Source : Generic term for enzymes that target UV-induced DNA damage, not specific to any one type but typically derived from bacteria or engineered in laboratories.

INCI Name : None (described functionally rather than by a specific chemical name).

Endonuclease V

Source : Found in a variety of organisms, including bacteria and plants, where it serves a role in DNA repair.

INCI Name : None (often listed by specific source or activity, such as “endonuclease from Arabidopsis thaliana”).

Arabidopsis Endonuclease

Source : Extracted from the plant Arabidopsis thaliana, known for its robust DNA repair mechanisms.

INCI Name : None (specifically described by its plant source).

Each of these endonucleases has a unique origin and is incorporated into skincare products to enhance the skin’s natural ability to repair DNA damage, thus contributing to skin health and reducing the aging effects of environmental stressors.

8-oxoguanine glycosylase (OGG1)

8-oxoguanine glycosylase (OGG1) is an enzyme that repairs oxidative DNA damage, specifically targeting the removal of 8-oxoguanine, a common lesion caused by reactive oxygen species from UV exposure and other environmental stressors.

Mechanism of Action: OGG1 identifies 8-oxoguanine in DNA, excises the damaged base, and initiates repair, thereby preventing mutations and maintaining genomic stability.

Source: Derived from the mustard plant (Arabidopsis thaliana).

INCI Name:OGG1 does not have a specific INCI name and is often listed as Arabidopsis thaliana

Other DNA repair Ingredients

These ingredients have less data to back up their use, but can also be found in skin care products.

Arabidopsis Thaliana Extract : Derived from a plant commonly used in scientific research, this extract is believed to aid in DNA repair processes. Although it is less frequently discussed in consumer products, its potential benefits in DNA repair make it an interesting addition to skincare formulations.

Hydrolyzed DNA : This ingredient consists of DNA broken down into smaller fragments, which are then used in skincare to support skin cell repair and regeneration. It is particularly useful in promoting the healing of damaged skin.

Acetyl Hexapeptide-51 Amide : Known for its role in protecting DNA from damage, this peptide supports DNA repair processes and helps in reducing the effects of aging on the skin.

Conclusion

There is a lot to know to find out if DNA repair enzymes are right for your skin- but don’t worry, we are here to help. Take the quiz and use our advanced AI skin care concierge to guide you towards the perfect skin care routine for you.

DQH Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C? It’s easy to create a skincare routine, but knowing how to use it is another thing entirely. In most cases, if you’re not getting the desired skin results, it could be due to the layering of conflicting ingredients. So, is it possible that salicylic acid and vitamin C are such ingredients? Or are these active ingredients the duo that’s been missing from your skincare routine? If you want answers, stick around because today we are going to explain the benefits of salicylic acid and vitamin C and how they can be used in your daily life. What are the benefits of salicylic acid for skin? Salicylic acid is one of the most commonly used beta hydroxy acids and is favored by many people with oily, acne-prone skin. This acid is derived from willow bark, and unlike its water-soluble relatives (called alpha-hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate deeper into the lower layers of the skin. Once it reaches the lower layers, it can help unclog pores of excess sebum, dirt, bacteria, debris, and impurities. This results in clearer skin tones and greater definition. Not only does salicylic acid benefit the underlying layers, but the outer surface of the skin benefits as well. When applied to the skin, salicylic acid removes the buildup of dead skin cells. This is accomplished by breaking the bonds that hold dead cells to the surface. Over time, this can cause the complexion to look dull and prone to acne, blackheads, and other blemishes. If you’d like to learn more about salicylic acid and how it can improve your skin, check out this dedicated blog post from a beauty insider. What are the benefits of vitamin C for skin? Vitamin C is considered one of the most powerful antioxidants, which means it is very effective at fighting free radicals and preventing them from causing further skin damage. Examples of free radicals include pollution, central heating, UV rays and harsh climate. They attack proteins, fats and cell membranes as soon as they come into contact with the skin, causing signs of premature aging such as fine lines and wrinkles as well as hyperpigmentation, flaky patches of skin and loss of elasticity. Many people usually prefer to use vitamin C in their morning routine as this ingredient gives the complexion a radiant glow. You’ll also find that vitamin C can target areas of hyperpigmentation, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The thing about vitamin C is that there are a lot of outdated studies going back to the 1950s that describe vitamin C as an unstable skin component. Thanks to improvements in modern technology, this is no longer the case as all products now contain a stable form of vitamin C. Visit The Beauty Insider to learn more about vitamin C. So please check out our blog post. Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C? Yes, you absolutely can. In fact, it’s thought that using salicylic acid before using vitamin C ensures it penetrates faster and works faster. This is an efficient way to utilize two power sources, and the reason has to do with pH. For example, the skin’s natural pH is about 4.7, making it slightly acidic. Salicylic acid and vitamin C are also both acidic, and you’ll find that vitamin C is absorbed quickly into the skin. Therefore, using salicylic acid beforehand can increase the acidity of the skin and allow vitamin C to penetrate into the skin faster. While this is considered an effective way to combine two powerful ingredients, you need to be aware of your skin type and how it reacts to certain active ingredients. Even people with perfect, normal skin can experience skin sensitivity and irritation. Therefore, always consult a doctor or dermatologist before using any new products on your skin. It’s also important to follow skin application rules. In this case, you need to use the product correctly to ensure you get the best results for your skin. If you’re not sure what I mean, the basic rule for skin is to start with the thinnest consistency and work your way up to the thickest consistency. This prevents a barrier from forming on the surface, preventing other active ingredients from penetrating the skin. Can I use salicylic acid at night and vitamin C in the morning? Yes, absolutely, this is considered the most effective way to get returns without any adverse side effects. This is because there is enough time between applications to ensure that the skin’s pH levels return to balance. You’ll also find that Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants and is perfect for use in the morning to ensure your skin is protected and looking its healthiest. Due to the small size of salicylic acid molecules, it is an acid that is able to reach the deepest parts of the skin. While this is effective at keeping skin clear, it also increases the risk of irritation and photosensitivity. Therefore, many people prefer to use powerful BHAs in their evening routine without exposure to UV rays, pollution, or harsh weather. Warning: If you avoid using sunscreen every day, none of these ingredients will do what your skin needs. The combination of chemical peels and powerful ingredients increases the risk of further damage to the skin’s surface. Use SPF 50 every day to keep your skin protected and your lipid barrier healthy, even on cloudy days, keeping your skin in top condition.

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