Unlocking the Power of DNA Repair Enzymes in Skincare

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 Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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