Advanced Actives
DNA Repair Enzymes
T4 Endonuclease V & Photolyase
Reversing UV-induced cellular damage
Origin: Biotechnology (bacteriophage T4 / Anacystis nidulans)
How It Works
UV radiation creates cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) — abnormal bonds in the DNA helix that, if unrepaired, cause mutations and premature aging. T4 endonuclease V initiates base excision repair of these CPDs when delivered into keratinocytes via liposome encapsulation. Photolyase uses energy from visible light (400–500nm) to directly break and reverse CPD bonds through a process called photoreactivation — essentially reversing UV damage using light. Both enzymes must be encapsulated in liposomes to penetrate the stratum corneum and reach the nuclei of living skin cells.
Clinical Evidence
The clinical anchor study was published in The Lancet (2001) by Yarosh et al.: T4N5 liposome lotion reduced actinic keratosis incidence by 68% over one year in xeroderma pigmentosum patients. A 2020 study in Photochemistry and Photobiology demonstrated CPD reduction in photoaged skin with topical DNA repair enzyme application. Multiple additional studies show improvements in mottled pigmentation and skin tone uniformity.
T4N5 Liposome Lotion and Actinic Keratosis
200168% reduction in actinic keratosis incidence over 12 months in xeroderma pigmentosum patients (landmark RCT).
DNA Repair Enzymes Reduce UV-Induced Photoaging Markers
2020Reduced CPD markers and actinic keratosis lesion count vs vehicle control in general population (n=120, double-blind).
How to Use
Apply DNA repair serum in the evening after cleansing — this allows overnight repair without light interference. Some photolyase formulations are applied post-sun exposure and activated by ambient light. Layer under a nourishing moisturiser. Using in combination with a PDRN serum creates a comprehensive photoaging protocol: DNA repair enzymes correct the molecular damage; PDRN stimulates the structural regeneration that follows.
Best For
Photoaged skin, sun-damage history, hyperpigmentation, skin longevity focus, post-sun recovery
Cautions
Generally very well tolerated. Rare sensitivity to liposome carriers. Not a substitute for SPF — DNA repair addresses existing damage; sunscreen prevents new damage.
Key Benefits
- UV damage reversal
- Photoaging prevention
- Actinic keratosis reduction
- CPD lesion repair
- Cellular DNA correction
Pairs Well With
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