Phase I and Phase II detoxification

Two sequential stages of hepatic detoxification. Phase I (CYP450 enzymes) transforms fat-soluble compounds into reactive intermediates, sometimes more toxic than the original molecules. Phase II (glucuronidation, sulphation, glutathione conjugation) conjugates these intermediates to make them water-soluble and eliminable. An imbalance between active Phase I and slow Phase II increases oxidative stress and skin inflammation.