Multiple Functions of Enzymes | by Deidre Ramdhanie
Some examples of important skin functions or skin conditions involving enzymes include :
• Sebum Production – Sebum production is important for skin antioxidant protection , moisture , barrier function , and tissue lifespan . Enzymes are required for many steps in sebum production .
• Acne – Excess sebum production occurs in acne and is related to the testosterone spikes of puberty . The 5-alpha reductase enzyme reacts with testosterone to produce a more potent androgen , dihydrotestosterone ( DHT ). DHT then sensitizes sebaceous glands to over-produce thick , waxy sebum . Inhibitors of 5-alpha reductase can reduce the conversion of testosterone to DHT . Niacinamide , zinc , and green tea are mild 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and may be included in topicals to benefit acne .
Enzyme functions are instrumental for all living things .
• Cortisol Metabolism – Cortisol is involved in the stress response , bone metabolism , acne , and inflammatory triggers . The enzymatic production of dihydrocortisol from cortisol may relate to inflammatory acne , sebum production in acne , osteoporosis of the aging midface , and collagen production .
• Dry Skin – Lamellar granules within the cells of the epidermal stratum spinosum secrete a series of enzymes and antioxidant-rich lipids . These are essential for healthy barrier function and dry skin prevention , providing lipid-based moisture and locking hydration into the skin . Genetically dry or sensitive skin , or skin suffering from an inflammatory condition , has fewer lamellar granules . Humectants and vitamin-rich lipids can bring improvement and balance .
• Desquamation – Water-based molecules of the skin react with chymotrypsin and cholesterol sulfatase enzymes , cleaving the desmosomes of devitalized keratinocytes , breaking down stagnant intercellular glue , and inviting a fresh barrier to emerge . This process of normal desquamation cannot occur if these enzymes and / or proper hydration are lacking .
• Aging Skin – Enzyme families , including glutathione-S-transferases and glutathione peroxidase , are proven to act as detoxifiers and cellular protectors . These busy enzymes allow for protection and repair of DNA and mitochondrial DNA ( mtDNA ). They detoxify molecules that would otherwise cause extensive free radical damage and contribute to aging and DNA mutations . Glutathione is a master antioxidant that , amongst many other functions , protects mtDNA and boosts adenosine triphosphate ( ATP ), the main source of cellular energy .
18 iS Skin Source