Launch of DNA repair-based treatment sunscreens

Formulated by its Neova brand and based on more than 20 years of research, DNA Damage Control sunscreens repair and protect against photodamage by using the body’s natural DNA repair process, according to the company.

The formulas use a liposome delivery system, which is specifically engineered to transfer DNA repair enzymes deep into the epidermis, to the site of the damage.

Photolysomes and endosomes are the liposome-encapsulated repair enzymes used, and both recognise DNA damage caused by UV and initiate repair.

The photolysomes contain photolyase, derived from plankton, which is able to undo DNA damage in cells and prevent cell death caused by the exposure of UV. Endosomes consist of an extract from the marine microbe Micrococcus lysate; UV resistant, it intensifies the skin’s reparative properties to speed the recovery reaction and reduce the appearance of peeling after sunburn.

“Photodamage occurs every day, even on cloudy days, and damage to our skin is cumulative. Even if you don’t see sunburn, sun exposure can lead to wrinkles, pigmentation changes and more serious consequences including skin cancer,​” said Melanie Grossman, MD, a New York-based dermatologist.

The clinical studies showed the DNA repair enzymes had reduced DNA damage by 45 percent and increased UV protection by 300 percent - in just one hour.

In the studies, skin was exposed to UVB radiation; after this, lotion with photolyase-containing liposomes was applied and left to penetrate the skin for an hour. Subsequent exposure to photoreactivating light decreased the number of UVB radiation induced dimmers by 45 percent.

Sections of skin, both untreated and treated with a lotion of photolyase-containing liposomes as a lotion was applied and then light-activated. 60 minutes after exposure, both were measured and the treated skin light showed an increase in UV protection by 300 percent.