Glucose Oxidase at a Glance
- Enzyme that catalyzes the oxidation of the sugar glucose to gluconic acid
- Functions as a skin conditioning ingredient
- Synthesized by fungi and insects and can be manufactured synthetically
- Has medical and food applications
Glucose Oxidase Description
Glucose oxidase is an enzyme that catalyzes the oxidation of the sugar glucose to gluconic acid. In nature it is synthesized by several species of fungi and insects such as honeybees. It can also be manufactured synthetically (Paula’s Choice uses this version). In cosmetics, it functions as a skin-conditioning agent.
Glucose oxidase is also used in medicine to help monitor glucose levels, and in the food industry to control glucose amounts.
The ester of gluconic acid is known as gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that in amounts of 2% and up and within the correct pH range has exfoliating properties for skin.
Glucose Oxidase References
Molecules, April 2019, pages 1–20
Biosensors and Bioelectronics, July 2018, pages 175–179
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, October 2016, pages 50–54
Journal of Cosmetic Science, January-February 2013, pages 1–8
Journal of Biomaterials Applications, May 2012, pages 917–938
Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, April 2008, pages 927–938