LACTOPEROXIDASE
Lactoperoxidase is an enzyme in the peroxidase family. The well-characterised bovine form is a protein secreted by the mammary gland and found in milk, which is why the name also appears in research on natural components of milk.
LACTOPEROXIDASE: what it is
Lactoperoxidase is an enzyme in the peroxidase family. The well-characterised bovine form is a protein secreted by the mammary gland and found in milk, which is why the name also appears in research on natural components of milk.
As an enzyme, it speeds up specific chemical reactions rather than behaving like an oil, wax or mineral powder. Lactoperoxidase uses hydrogen peroxide in its catalytic activity; that feature distinguishes it from similarly named ingredients that may be present in a formula without enzyme activity.
LACTOPEROXIDASE: what it does in cosmetics
In cosmetics, lactoperoxidase is used as a light stabiliser. In practical terms, its purpose is to help protect the product itself from deterioration caused by light, helping preserve its characteristics during storage and use.
That purpose concerns the stability of the formula, not protection of the skin from sunlight. The enzyme activity described for lactoperoxidase depends on specific reactants, including hydrogen peroxide; it does not by itself make a cosmetic a sunscreen or a treatment for acne, dark spots or wounds.
Products containing this ingredient
See which products include it and the name used in each composition.
