When exposed to light, fullerene can produce singlet oxygen in high quantum yields. This action, together with direct electron transfer from excited state of fullerene and DNA bases, can be used to cleave DNA.

Fullerenes (C₆₀) and their derivatives have potential antiviral activity, which has strong implications on the treatment of HIV-infection.

Cationic, anionic and amino acid type fullerene derivatives inhibit HIV-reverse transcriptase and hepatitis C virus replication.

Fullerenes are one of the ingredients used in the manufacturing of anti-aging cosmetic creams.