Superoxide Dismutases (SOD) are antioxidantenzymes that are naturally producedby the body.SODs arethe most potent antioxidantsamong primary antioxidants which protects the cells from damage caused by free radicals. Developed for cosmetic use,they are incorporatedinto skincare products for theirpotentantioxidant propertiesandtheir numerousskinbenefits. As noted by Nick Lane in his book Oxygen: The Molecule that Made the World(Oxford University Press; USA: 2003), the discovery and naming of superoxide dismutase activity is “… in the opinion of many, the most important discovery of modern biology never to win a Nobel prize.”

CONCENTRATION

Depending on the source of the SOD, itsactive dose in topical skin products can vary widely. Weoffera stabilized SOD at2%to 6%in our personalized serums.

WHO SHOULD USE IT

Topical SOD applicationcan be beneficial for all skin types, even sensitive,but is particularly useful for those with aging or sun-damaged skin, dry and atopic prone skin,acne prone skinand people impacted by pollution andany kind ofinternal andexternal stress. It can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and improve the overall health and appearance of the skin.

CAN BE USED IN COMBINATION WITH

SOD can be used in combination with other antioxidants, such as Ferulic acid,Vitamin C and Vitamin E(contained in serum P), to enhance its effectivenessagainstoxidative stress damage. It is perfect in combination withall the active ingredientsto enhance their overall benefits to the skin.

HOW OFTEN CAN YOU USE IT

SOD can be used daily in the morning and/or evening.

DON’T USE IT IF

If you have a very sensitive skinor allergies, it is always recommendedto test productson a small skin area before using on the face.

ORIGINS OF THE INGREDIENT

Superoxide Dismutases arefound in various sources:

• In nature: SODscan be found in various microorganisms, including bacteria, yeast, and algae.
• In the human body: SODs arefound in various tissues, including the liver, heart, and lungs. It acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing harmful superoxide radicals.
• In vegetables: Certain fruits and vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, and melons, are rich in SODs.

SODs can be produced industrially for various applications; Recombinant SODfrom yeast, vegetableSODextracts, marine-source SOD.

Universkin has selected a stabilizedhumanrecombinant SODobtainedfrom yeastcultures for itshigh purity and efficiency, anditsgood stability in formulations.

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes are metalloproteins, meaning they contain metal ions in their molecular structure. There are three main types of SOD in humans: Cu/Zn-SOD (SOD1), Mn-SOD (SOD2), and Fe/Ni-SOD (SOD3).

Universkin SOD is slightly blueish.

MECHANISM OF ACTION

Superoxide dismutases (SOD) play a crucial role in scavenging superoxide radicals in the human body. They do so by converting the superoxide radical into hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and molecular oxygen (O2). In this reaction, the superoxide radical is converted into hydrogen peroxide, which can then be further broken down into water and oxygen by other antioxidant enzymes such as catalase. By neutralizing superoxide radicals, SOD helps to prevent oxidative damage to cellular components, such as DNA, proteins, and lipids, and thus protects cells against oxidative stress. It also may promote collagen production, which can improve the skin’s firmnessand reduce aging signs.

SKIN BENEFITS

SOD can help to improve the overall health and appearance of the skin by neutralizing free radicals and protecting the cells from damage caused by environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollution. Through its powerful antioxidantproperties,it helps reducevisible redness,soothe the skin, improvewrinkles and fine lines, brightenskintone, and promote skin hydration. It also may promote collagen production, which can improve the skin’s firmness and reduce aging signs.

STABILITY

The stability of the SODs depends on theirorigin. Weuse astabilized SOD toprovide the best quality serums.

In conclusion, SOD is a buzzworthyactive ingredient asthe mostpotent primaryantioxidant that can provide many benefits for the skin, including protecting the skin from environmental damage, neutralizing free radicals, and improving the overall health and appearance of the skin. Whereas very efficient alone,combined with other antioxidants and active ingredients provide even better results.

It’s always important to consult a skincare professional or a dermatologist if you have any concerns about using SOD.