SOD (Superoxide Dismutase): A Deeper Look at the Ultimate Antioxidant for Skin and Health
In our previous blog we discussed how antioxidants like SOD help neutralize free radicals and thus protect the skin and cells. But why does SOD deserve its own, deeper spotlight?
Let’s take a closer look at how SOD works , what the science behind it is, and why this enzyme is increasingly appearing in skin and health supplements like those from B.me.
What makes SOD unique among antioxidants?
Most antioxidants (such as vitamins C and E) work extracellularly , that is, outside the cells.
SOD, on the other hand, works intracellularly : it is located in the mitochondria and the cytosol, where energy production takes place and where most free radicals are created. This makes SOD the first line of defense against oxidative stress (Islam et al., 2022, PubMed ).
In addition, SOD can specifically target superoxide radicals — a highly reactive type of ROS (reactive oxygen species) that rapidly damages DNA, lipids and proteins.
Scientific evidence and applications
According to an extensive review in PubMed Central (PMC5969776), SOD enzymes have been studied for:
✅ Reduction of oxidative stress in chronic diseases
✅ Support of anti-inflammatory processes in arthritis and inflammatory skin diseases
✅ Protection against UV damage in the skin
✅ Reduction of muscle pain and recovery after intensive training
SOD supplementation is also being investigated for potential applications in neurodegenerative diseases, although further research is needed.
Why is oral intake of SOD not easy?
An important detail: SOD is a protein , which means that it can be broken down in the stomach before it is actively absorbed. That is why you see more and more use in the supplement industry of:
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SOD complexes with gliadin, which provide protection against breakdown
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Plant sources with natural SOD activity, such as melon extract (for example the branded raw material Extramel®)
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Topical (external) applications in skincare
How does SOD work in combination with other ingredients?
At B.me we cleverly combine antioxidants in formulas. For example, SOD, vitamin C, zinc and biotin work complementary to:
✨ reduce oxidative stress
✨ to support collagen synthesis
✨ strengthen the skin barrier
This synergy is essential, because no single ingredient works optimally on its own.
Want to read more about the science behind SOD?
For those who want to dive deeper, check out these references on PubMed:
👉 Curious about how we incorporate SOD into our skin formulas? Discover our offering at bmeskin.com .