If you’re looking for a gentle yet effective way to exfoliate and rejuvenate your skin, enzymes may be your new best friend. These natural proteins, usually derived from fruits such as papaya, pineapple and kiwi, help speed up the skin’s natural exfoliation process without the harshness of traditional scrubs or chemical exfoliants. Enzyme-based masks and treatments are available for both exclusive spa services and home use. In a spa, they can be used in higher concentrations and target your specific concerns. At home, you can incorporate enzymes to prolong your spa-fresh glow.
Let’s explore how enzymes work in skin care and why they’ve become a favorite among beauty enthusiasts.
Discovering Superfood Enzymes: What Are They?
Fruit and plant enzymes can help you achieve more refined skin, whether you experience spa treatments or through your home care rituals. Enzyme treatments often include a holistic approach to skin care. Not only do they exfoliate, but they can also provide hydration, nourishment and antioxidant protection, contributing to overall skin health. Our skin is mainly made up of a protein called keratin. As we age, reduced cell turnover causes the top layer of our skin (stratum corneum) to thicken, resulting in a build-up of dead skin cells. This buildup can make our skin look dull.
Fortunately, enzymes can help address this issue. Enzymes derived from superfoods like pineapple, kiwi and papaya are among the mildest forms of exfoliation, making them ideal for sensitive skin. These proteins also support the skin’s natural renewal process by acting as catalysts that speed up biological processes, enhancing the skin’s natural exfoliation. Enzyme exfoliants gently dissolve the bonds that hold dead skin cells to the skin, which in turn prevents clogged pores and addresses issues like uneven skin tone, the appearance of dark spots and telltale signs of aging. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits.
The benefits of enzymatic peeling
Enzymatic peeling promotes the appearance of radiant, smooth and renewed skin. Since enzymes provide a gentle exfoliation to the surface layer of the skin, enzyme peeling very rarely has side effects and is widely recommended by skin care professionals for all skin types, even the most sensitive. Here are some of the other key benefits for your skin:
Natural Exfoliation
Enzymatic exfoliants offer an alternative to traditional physical and chemical exfoliants. Enzyme exfoliants help speed up cell turnover, which removes dead skin cells that make skin look dull. This process reveals brighter, fresher skin underneath and helps even out skin tone.
Gentle for Sensitive Skin
Enzymes are generally gentler on the skin compared to some chemical exfoliants like lactic acid and glycolic acid, both of which belong to the AHA family. While AHAs and BHAs are effective exfoliators, they can cause irritation and increase sensitivity. In contrast, enzymes provide gentle exfoliation without causing irritation or redness, making them suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types.
Shine & Shine
Enzymes like papain can promote skin radiance by removing dull surface cells. Exfoliating enzymes also allow for deeper penetration of subsequent products, including those formulated with shine-boosting antioxidants.
Personalized exfoliation
Different enzymes target specific types of skin problems. For example, papain and bromelain are great choices for mild exfoliation, while lipase can help control excess oil. This allows for more personalized skin care routines and spa treatments.
Improved appearance of skin texture
By dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, enzyme exfoliants smooth the skin’s surface, reducing the appearance of fine lines and improving texture. This gentle exfoliation results in softer, smoother skin without the harshness of natural scrubs.
Reduction in the look of dark spots
Enzyme exfoliants are effective in reducing the appearance of dark spots. They work by accelerating the turnover of pigment cells, leading to a more even skin tone and reduced appearance of discoloration.
Enzyme sources in skin care
Enzymes used in skin care are often derived from fruits and vegetables. For optimal results, look for enzyme peels that contain various fruit enzymes (such as actinidin, bromelain, papain) and plant-based enzymes (such as lipase). Each one offers unique benefits while promoting the emergence of newer skin cells. You can find them in superfoods such as:
Actinide (Actinidin Enzyme)
Actinidin is an enzyme derived from kiwifruit that helps exfoliate the top layer of skin and remove dead skin cells to promote smoother, irritation-free skin.
Pineapple (Bromelain Enzyme)
Bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapple, is ideal for sensitive, irritated or rosacea-prone skin due to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This makes the skin look calmer and more even. Pineapple is also a rich source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that improves the appearance of elasticity and youthfulness in the skin.
Papaya (papain enzyme)
Papaya enzyme, derived from papaya, is beneficial for acne-prone skin. breaks down dead cells within the pores, helping to clear trapped congestion beneath the skin. This enzymatic action not only reduces the formation of black and white spots but also promotes a clearer and more refined complexion.
Fermented plant sugars (lipase enzyme)
Lipase, an enzyme used to control oils, is derived from fermented plant sugars. This enzyme is used to break down the oil.
For a skin care routine tailored to your unique skin type and concerns, book a consultation with a licensed esthetician at an Eminence Organics Spa partner near you.
