Glossary

Photolyase

Written by Reviewed by the SYNC editorial team Published Last reviewed Editorial standards

Photolyase — a light-activated enzyme, sourced for cosmetics from organisms such as microalgae or bacteria, that helps repair a specific type of UV-induced DNA damage. In topical products it is intended to support the skin's natural recovery from sun exposure, and it relies on visible light to become active.

Key points

  • Photolyase targets cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers, a common form of DNA damage caused by UV radiation.
  • The enzyme is not naturally present in human skin and is typically derived from microorganisms like plankton or bacteria.
  • It requires visible light to activate its repair function, a process known as photoreactivation.
  • In cosmetics it is positioned as an after-sun or supportive ingredient rather than a substitute for sun protection.

Frequently asked

Does photolyase mean I can skip sunscreen?

No, photolyase is intended to support repair after exposure and does not prevent UV damage, so daily broad-spectrum sunscreen remains essential.

Why is photolyase often paired with light exposure?

Photolyase depends on visible light to activate its DNA-repair mechanism, a process called photoreactivation, which is why it works in daylight conditions.

Related topics

This is a foundational entry in the SYNC Skin Encyclopedia and is expanded over time. Educational information only — not medical advice.

Encyclopedia

Further reading

This entry was written and checked against the sources below. They are published by clinical and scientific bodies, they are listed most readable first, and each one opens in a new tab. They are background for the whole entry rather than footnotes to individual sentences.

  1. Ultraviolet radiation and human health DermNet NZ Clinical guidance dermnetnz.org
  2. Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation U.S. FDA Regulatory and safety fda.gov
  3. Comparison of the Biological Impact of UVA and UVB upon ... PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. The impact of ultraviolet radiation on skin photoaging — review of in vitro studies PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. UV Radiation and the Skin PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  6. Ultraviolet Radiation Biological and Medical Implications PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

SYNC does not publish medical advice. Nothing here replaces a consultation with a doctor or a pharmacist about your own skin.