Lipase is the general name for enzymes belonging to the hydrolase class. The hydrolases insert the components of a water molecule, H and OH, at the level of a specific substrate bond, thereby cleaving the bond. Sometimes this is a reversible reaction, but usually, it is not. The class of hydrolases is an extensive enzyme class, including essential subclasses, among which are the esterases, enzymes that hydrolyze the ester linkage between an acid and an alcohol.
Lipase hydrolyzes triglycerides, components of fats, into free fatty acids and glycerin (glycerol). The enzyme is characterized by a very wide substrate specificity and good stability to pH and temperature, providing lipolytic action by catalyzing the cleavage of most ester links in fats and reducing them to small, easily soluble molecules.
Eliminating excess sebum, oils, and impurities at low concentrations, Lipase provides gentle deep cleansing while mattifying and improving appearance. It is a perfect ingredient for applications aimed at cleansing seborrheic skin, where the overproduction of sebum and subsequent pore clogging, irritation, and inflammation occur.
Breaking down triglycerides, the fatty acids obtained act as secondary surfactants, and glycerin acts as a moisturizer, providing additional benefits and naturally purifying effects. Combined with proteolytic enzymes, it enhances their activity; therefore, it is included in the enzymatic complex Zymo Clear MD, which offers dual clarifying and exfoliating action.