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CARBOXYLESTERASE.

Valuable CAS 9016-18-6 / ANTIPLAQUE

A sophisticated biocatalytic enzyme that functions as a specialized detoxifying agent, transforming environmental pollutants and chemical irritants into inert substances. This high-precision hydrolase is essential for maintaining the skin's metabolic integrity and accelerating the conversion of beneficial precursor molecules into their active states.

Enzyme catalyst Detoxifying agent Skin conditioning Metabolic booster

Science

Carboxylesterase acts as a Phase I metabolic catalyst, utilizing its serine hydrolase structure to break ester bonds in xenobiotics. In the epidermis, it facilitates 'biotransformation'—neutralizing potential irritants like accumulated preservatives while simultaneously bio-activating prodrugs such as retinyl esters and methyl salicylate into active retinol and salicylic acid.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–2%
Optimal

2%

Key findings

  1. 01 100% of participants experienced enhanced hydration and 95.2% demonstrated a reduction in redness and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) via enzyme-mediated biotransformation.
  2. 02 Clinical data confirms that depleted carboxylesterase levels are a primary biological driver of sensitive skin, as it leaves irritants unhydrolyzed on the skin surface.

Transparency

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.5%
Red flag below
0.1%

Due to its high manufacturing cost as a recombinant enzyme, it is often included at 'label-claim' levels (below 0.1%). However, metabolic efficacy requires concentrations closer to 0.5-2.0% to significantly impact skin sensitivity and detoxification.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Exhibits robust stability across a broad pH range (5.0–9.0) with peak catalytic efficiency between pH 7.0 and 8.0. Microbial-derived recombinant versions remain stable even when exposed to temperatures up to 50°C.

Synergies

  • Retinyl Palmitate
  • Methyl Salicylate
  • Ester-based antioxidants

Conflicts

  • Organophosphates
  • Bakuchiol
  • Curcumin
  • Cannabis extracts
  • Lauric acid
  • Linoleic acid

Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

As an endogenous human protein, it is biologically recognized by the skin and considered exceptionally safe. While not yet formally reviewed as a standalone cosmetic additive by the CIR, its history in food-grade processing supports its safety profile.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

A high-performance metabolic enzyme that is vital for neutralizing environmental triggers and maximizing the efficacy of ester-based active ingredients.


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