Superoxide Dismutase
An antioxidant enzyme the skin makes itself to neutralise superoxide free radicals; added to serums to help counter oxidative stress from UV and pollution.
superoxide dismutase, SOD, antioxidant enzyme
Ageing skin · Dull skin
What it does
Superoxide dismutase, or SOD, is an antioxidant enzyme the body makes to neutralise superoxide, one of the most common free radicals, created by UV, pollution and other environmental aggressors. In skincare it is added to antioxidant serums, mists and creams to help defend the skin against this oxidative stress.
How it works
SOD converts superoxide into oxygen and hydrogen peroxide, which a second enzyme, catalase, then breaks down into water and oxygen. As a large protein, it is thought to work mainly at the skin's surface, so it is usually paired with antioxidants that tackle other free radicals, such as vitamins C and E and astaxanthin. The body's own SOD depends on copper, zinc and manganese.
MG says
Superoxide dismutase is a wonderful inclusion in any regime in either mist or serum form. It is especially helpful for city dwellers exposed to pollution: apply it in the morning, beneath SPF, in a formula such as CosMedix Elite Pepoxide, which pairs it with astaxanthin and spin trap.
Cautions
Superoxide dismutase is generally well tolerated. Antioxidants support daily SPF but never replace it.
