Catalase

Product Description

Catalase is a vital antioxidant enzyme that serves a highly specialized and critical role in skincare and scalp care. While primary antioxidants like SOD (Superoxide Dismutase) provide the first line of defense, their neutralizing action produces hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) as a byproduct. Catalase acts as the essential "second-step" neutralizer. Its sole function is to rapidly catalyze the decomposition of H₂O₂—a potent oxidizing agent—into harmless water and oxygen. This completes the body's natural enzymatic detoxification cascade. For B2B formulators, Catalase is not just another antioxidant; it is the strategic partner to SOD and the only enzyme specifically designed to neutralize peroxide-based damage, making it essential for true anti-pollution and preventative formulas.

Product Uses

Catalase's unique H₂O₂-neutralizing ability makes it indispensable in two key B2B applications. First, it is a critical active in high-performance **scalp care**. It is used in post-color-treatment masks and serums to neutralize residual hydrogen peroxide from hair dyes and bleaches, preventing continued oxidative damage to the hair follicle and scalp. It is also a core ingredient in advanced "anti-graying" hair serums. Second, in skincare, it is a key component in "anti-pollution" and "urban-detox" formulations, where it works (often with SOD) to defend skin against peroxide damage generated by UV radiation and ozone exposure.

Formulation Suggestions

Catalase is a large protein enzyme and must be handled with care to maintain its activity. It is extremely sensitive to heat and should only be incorporated during the final cool-down phase of formulation, at temperatures below 45°C (113°F). Its activity is highly pH-dependent, with an optimal performance range near neutral (pH 6.0 - 7.5). Activity is rapidly lost in acidic or strong alkaline conditions. Due to its large molecular size, encapsulation (such as in liposomes) is often recommended to enhance stability and improve delivery into the skin. Our recommendations are for reference only; please follow the advice of your formulator for actual production.

Product Specification

• INCI Name: Catalase
• Synonyms: Equilase, H₂O₂-oxidoreductase
• CAS No.: 9001-05-2
• Molecular Formula: Metalloenzyme
• Appearance: Off-white to light brown powder
• Purity: ≥98%
• Solubility: Soluble in water. Insoluble in oils and ethanol.
• Stability: Stable as dry powder. Sensitive to heat (>55°C) and pH extremes. Optimal activity at neutral pH (~7.0).
• Properties: Antioxidant (H₂O₂ Neutralizer), Protective, Detoxifying, Scalp Care
• Origin: China