What Is Catalase?
Catalase is a naturally occurring enzyme that lives in nearly every living thing, from plants and mushrooms to human skin. Its day job in nature is to break down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, helping cells guard against oxidative stress. For cosmetic use, companies usually grow specific strains of bacteria or yeast in controlled tanks, harvest the enzyme they produce, then purify and stabilize it into a powder or liquid form that can slip smoothly into a cream or serum. Catalase started drawing attention from beauty formulators in the 1990s when research highlighted its knack for fighting free radical damage, a key culprit in early signs of aging. Today you can spot it on ingredient lists for wash-off masks, leave-on moisturizers, color-protecting hair conditioners, scalp sprays and anti-aging serums.
Catalase’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare and haircare formulas catalase pulls its weight in two main ways:
- Hair conditioning – By neutralizing leftover hydrogen peroxide from hair coloring or environmental exposure, catalase helps maintain natural moisture, protects against breakage and can keep dyed shades looking fresher for longer
- Skin conditioning – Its antioxidant activity lessens oxidative stress on the skin surface, which can translate to a smoother feel, a healthier-looking glow and better resilience against daily pollutants
Who Can Use Catalase
Catalase is gentle enough for most skin types, including sensitive, dry and oily skin, because it works on the surface and is not acidic or exfoliating. People with a known enzyme allergy or very reactive skin may want to approach more cautiously since any protein, even in small amounts, can occasionally trigger a response.
The enzyme is usually produced through plant based fermentation so products that list catalase as a standalone ingredient are generally suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If the formula also contains animal derived additives like beeswax or collagen then the overall product would no longer be vegan friendly, so it is best to check the full ingredient label.
Catalase is considered low risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding because it does not penetrate deeply or reach the bloodstream in meaningful amounts. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a quick word with a medical professional before adding new skincare or haircare products to their routine just to be safe.
The enzyme does not absorb UV light or make skin more prone to sunburn so it is not linked to photosensitivity. It can be used day or night without extra sun precautions beyond your normal sunscreen habit.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical catalase can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues but most users will not experience them when products are formulated and used correctly.
- Mild redness or stinging
- Dry or tight feeling skin if the overall formula is not balanced with moisturizers
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people who are sensitive to proteins or fermentation residues
- Scalp irritation such as itching or flaking in leave-on hair products
- Reduced effectiveness of peroxide based hair lighteners if catalase is applied immediately afterward
If you notice any persistent irritation or discomfort stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Catalase is a water-soluble enzyme, not an oil or wax, so it does not linger inside pores or form a film that could trap debris. As a result it earns the lowest possible comedogenic score.
This makes catalase generally suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts. Any risk of clogged pores would come from heavier emollients or silicones blended into the finished formula, not from the enzyme itself.
Because catalase is an active protein, formulators often pair it with stabilizers or preservatives. If you are highly sensitive to certain preservatives keep an eye on the full ingredient list, as those extras could be the true culprits behind congestion or irritation.
Summary
Catalase serves two main jobs in cosmetics: it conditions hair by neutralizing leftover peroxide and it conditions skin by reducing surface oxidative stress. It does both by breaking hydrogen peroxide into harmless water and oxygen, lowering the free radical load that can rough up hair fibers or dull skin tone.
The enzyme enjoys moderate popularity. It is not as common as big-name antioxidants like vitamin C, yet formulators who want a gentle, natural-origin booster still reach for it in masks, scalp sprays and age defense creams.
Overall catalase is considered very safe for topical use, with a low risk of irritation and virtually zero comedogenicity. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a product first to make sure your skin or scalp agrees with the full formula.