The ‘nanoscale shield’ for skin antioxidant repair

Metallothionein (MT), a powerful antioxidant found in nature, employs a dual protective mechanism of ‘superoxide scavenging + heavy metal chelation,’ emerging as a new star in the field of cosmetic ingredients for anti-ageing. This small-molecule protein rich in cysteine, after being recombinant expressed via genetic engineering technology, not only retains its natural high activity but also enables large-scale production, providing a precise solution for skin to combat oxidative stress and environmental damage.

Core Mechanism of Action: Multi-dimensional Antioxidant Protection System

Metallothionein leverages its unique molecular structure to establish three key skin protection barriers:

1. Free Radical Scavenging Agent: The sulphhydryl groups (-SH) in cysteine residues (accounting for 30% of the protein) can rapidly capture hydroxyl radicals and superoxide anions, with an efficiency 10 times that of vitamin C. Experimental data shows a 92% scavenging rate for DPPH free radicals;

2. Heavy Metal Chelation Expert: The sulphhydryl groups specifically bind to heavy metal ions such as lead and mercury (with affinity increased by 500 times), blocking their toxic effects on cells and reducing skin darkening and ageing caused by pollution;

3. Anti-inflammatory signal regulation: Inhibits the activation of the NF-κB inflammatory pathway, reducing the release of pro-inflammatory factors such as TNF-α and IL-6 by 75%, and accelerating the repair of sensitive skin.

Diverse application scenarios: Comprehensive skincare solutions

- Anti-pollution protection products: Recommended addition rate of 0.05%-0.1% in sunscreen or spray to form an invisible protective barrier, reducing PM2.5 particle adsorption by 68%;

- Anti-ageing and firming serum: Combined with peptides (at a 0.08% concentration) to activate SIRT1 longevity gene expression, improving skin elasticity by 38% and reducing wrinkle depth by 26%;

- Sensitive Skin Repair Cream: When used with ceramides, it increases the moisture content of the stratum corneum by 45%, reduces transepidermal water loss by 59%, and decreases the recurrence rate of sensitivity by 71%;

- Scalp Antioxidant Care: When added to shampoo (at a concentration of 0.03%), it protects hair follicles from damage caused by UV rays and oxidative stress, reducing hair loss by 43%.