What Is Lysozyme?
Lysozyme is an enzyme also known as N-Acetylmuramide glycanohydrolase or muramidase. In nature it is plentiful in egg whites, human tears and saliva, where it helps defend against unwanted bacteria. Chemically, it is a protein that breaks down the cell walls of certain microbes. Discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1922, lysozyme first drew attention for its natural protective role. Cosmetic chemists later noticed that the same gentle action that keeps bacteria in check could help maintain a cleaner, calmer skin surface, so the ingredient found its way into beauty formulas.
Most cosmetic grade lysozyme is made by carefully purifying it from hen egg whites, although some manufacturers now produce it by fermenting harmless strains of bacteria which yields a vegan form. After extraction, the enzyme is filtered, dried and milled into a fine powder that blends easily with creams, gels and serums.
Because of its soothing and purifying traits, lysozyme appears in a range of products such as facial cleansers, toners, sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers, anti-aging serums, after-shave lotions and targeted treatments for oily or breakout-prone skin. Its mild nature lets formulators add it to both leave-on and rinse-off products without upsetting delicate skin.
Lysozyme’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When added to a skincare product lysozyme mainly acts as a skin-conditioning agent, meaning it helps keep the skin surface smooth, balanced and comfortable. By disrupting the outer layers of problem-causing bacteria the enzyme supports a healthier skin environment, which can reduce the look of redness and keep pores feeling clearer. Its conditioning effect can also enhance the overall feel of a formula, leaving skin soft and refreshed after use.
Who Can Use Lysozyme
Lysozyme is gentle enough for most skin types including normal, combination, oily and even sensitive skin because it conditions without stripping natural moisture. Very dry skin can also use it, although pairing the enzyme with a richer moisturizer is wise to keep dehydration at bay. The main group that may need caution is anyone with a known egg allergy since many commercial sources still come from hen egg whites.
Vegans and strict vegetarians should look for formulas that specify “biotechnologically produced” or “fermentation derived” lysozyme. These versions are grown in a lab using bacteria or yeast so no animal material is involved.
Current research shows no reason why topical lysozyme would harm women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The enzyme stays on the skin surface and does not reach the bloodstream in meaningful amounts. That said this is not medical advice and expecting or nursing mothers should clear any new skincare product with their doctor to be safe.
Lysozyme does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Normal daytime sun protection habits are still recommended to guard against UV damage in general.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical lysozyme differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is used at cosmetic levels in a well-formulated product.
- Allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to eggs
- Mild redness or stinging on very reactive skin
- Temporary dryness if used in an overly astringent formula
- Rare contact dermatitis due to individual intolerance
If any irritation or unexpected reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Lysozyme is a water-soluble protein with no oily or waxy components so it does not accumulate inside pores or create a film that can trap debris. Its mild antibacterial action can even discourage the overgrowth of breakout-related bacteria, which further reduces the chance of clogged pores.
Because of this you can comfortably use products containing lysozyme if you are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
One practical note for formulators is that lysozyme works best in water-based products kept at a pH below 7, conditions that are already friendly to blemish-prone skin.
Summary
Lysozyme is mainly valued for its skin-conditioning and purifying abilities. By breaking down parts of bacterial cell walls it helps keep the skin’s surface balanced, calm and comfortable. It is not as popular as trendier actives like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid, yet it quietly appears in a range of cleansers, toners and lightweight moisturizers aimed at sensitive or oily skin.
Overall lysozyme is considered very safe for topical use. Aside from a potential concern for people with egg allergies it rarely causes problems. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to do a quick patch test before full use to make sure your skin agrees with it.