Ingredient review
Lactate Dehydrogenase
INCI: Lactate Dehydrogenase
Lactate Dehydrogenase is a naturally occurring enzyme that may support skin barrier function, but its cosmetic benefits are still being explored and are not yet well-established.
In plain English
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme that your body naturally produces to help cells convert energy. In skincare, it is sometimes added to products to support the skin's natural repair processes and maintain a healthy barrier. Think of it as a tiny helper that encourages your skin cells to work efficiently. However, because it is a large molecule, it may not easily penetrate the skin, and its benefits in a cream or serum are still being studied.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is still emerging, so marketing claims deserve extra caution.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- biotech
- Evidence
- emerging
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Lactate Dehydrogenase is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Lactate Dehydrogenase.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
emergingThe ingredient may be promising, but claims should be treated more cautiously.
What it is
Lactate Dehydrogenase is an enzyme found in nearly all living cells, including human skin cells. It plays a key role in converting lactate to pyruvate during energy metabolism. In cosmetics, it is typically produced through biotechnology (fermentation) and used as a skin-conditioning agent.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, Lactate Dehydrogenase is intended to support the skin's natural enzyme activity, potentially aiding in cellular energy production and barrier repair. It may help maintain optimal pH and moisture levels, but because enzymes are fragile and large, their activity in a topical formula can be limited by formulation stability and skin penetration.
Pros
Naturally occurring enzyme
LDH is a natural part of your skin's biology, so it may be well-tolerated and support normal cellular processes.
Potential barrier support
Early research suggests LDH may help maintain the skin's protective barrier, which is important for keeping moisture in and irritants out.
Cons and cautions
Limited evidence
There is not yet strong scientific evidence that applying LDH topically provides significant benefits for the skin.
Stability concerns
Enzymes like LDH can be unstable in cosmetic formulas, meaning their activity may degrade over time or with exposure to light and air.
Best for
- Those interested in enzyme-based skincare
- People with normal to dry skin looking for barrier support
Use caution if
- Individuals with very sensitive or reactive skin should patch test first
Usage tips
Safety summary
Lactate Dehydrogenase is considered safe for topical use at low concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, but as with any enzyme, there is a small risk of sensitivity. Always patch test.
Research notes
Research on topical LDH is limited. Most knowledge comes from its role in cellular metabolism rather than direct cosmetic application. Early studies suggest potential barrier benefits, but more human trials are needed.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low concentrations, often below 1%
- Regulatory status
- Lactate Dehydrogenase is generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics in the US and EU when used as a skin-conditioning agent at low concentrations.
- Common uses
- Anti-aging serums, Barrier repair creams
- Environmental note
- LDH used in cosmetics is typically produced via fermentation, which is a relatively sustainable biotech process.
Good to know
- LDH is often listed near the end of ingredient lists, indicating low concentration.
- Enzyme-based skincare is a niche area; results may vary widely between individuals.
Common questions
What is Lactate Dehydrogenase in beauty products?
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme that your body naturally produces to help cells convert energy. In skincare, it is sometimes added to products to support the skin's natural repair processes and maintain a healthy barrier. Think of it as a tiny helper that encourages your skin cells to work efficiently. However, because it is a large molecule, it may not easily penetrate the skin, and its benefits in a cream or serum are still being studied.
What does Lactate Dehydrogenase do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, Lactate Dehydrogenase is intended to support the skin's natural enzyme activity, potentially aiding in cellular energy production and barrier repair. It may help maintain optimal pH and moisture levels, but because enzymes are fragile and large, their activity in a topical formula can be limited by formulation stability and skin penetration.
Is Lactate Dehydrogenase safe for most people?
Lactate Dehydrogenase is considered safe for topical use at low concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, but as with any enzyme, there is a small risk of sensitivity. Always patch test.
Who should be careful with Lactate Dehydrogenase?
Individuals with very sensitive or reactive skin should patch test first
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.