Superoxide Dismutase (SOD)

INCI: Superoxide Dismutase

Also known as: SOD

AntioxidantsantioxidantbiotechEmerging evidencePregnancy safe

Skinlumis Rating

Comedogenic

0/5

Irritancy

0/5

Best applied

Both

Effective range

0.1%–0.5%

How It Works

An enzymatic antioxidant that converts superoxide to hydrogen peroxide. First line of defence against UV-generated ROS.

Catalyses dismutation of superoxide radical (·O₂⁻) to H₂O₂ + O₂, where H₂O₂ is then handled by catalase or glutathione peroxidase.

pH Range

5.0–7.0

Benefits

Enzymatic antioxidant
Photoprotective
Reduces erythema

Proven For

What the evidence supports.

PhotoagingPost-procedure redness

Best For

All skin types

Avoid If

No notable contraindications reported.

Layering Order

4/10

Mid-routine serum or treatment step.

Max Safe Concentration

0.5%

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 0.1%–0.5%

Seasonal Use

Year-round.

Nutrition Connection

Endogenously synthesised.

Skin Signals When You Need It

No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.

For Estheticians & Professionals

Sensitive to heat and pH, formulated in cool, neutral conditions.

Clinical Evidence

The research behind Superoxide Dismutase (SOD).

3 peer-reviewed studies

Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.

Randomized Controlled Trial

Daily sunscreen use reduced photoaging markers by 24% over 4.5 years compared to discretionary use.

Hughes MCB, Williams GM, Baker P, Green AC
Annals of Internal Medicine, 2013

View Study →

Systematic Review

Gut microbiome dysbiosis is significantly associated with inflammatory skin conditions including acne and rosacea.

Dréno B, Dagnelie MA, Khammari A, Corvec S
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2020

View Study →

Randomized Controlled Trial

Ceramide-dominant emollients improved skin barrier function by 63% within 6 weeks.

Draelos ZD, Ertel K, Berge C
Cutis, 2006

View Study →

Pairs Well With

Vitamin CVitamin E

Conflicts With

No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.

Your Skin Compatibility