Example of an ENZYME EXFOLIANT. This is a professional one by Dermalogica. It comes in a powder. To activate it, I add water to the powder, which creates a foamy mixture.
An enzyme works by digesting the protein in skin (keratin + the protein linkages holding skin cells together).
Enzymes are more gentle than AHA’s because they affect only the outermost layer of skin (the Stratum Corneum).
AHA’s can exfoliate deeper into the skin, and therefore can be more irritating. This is why I like to use enzyme exfoliants when my skin is in a delicate state.
Popular enzymes in skincare are:
- PAPAIN – from papaya
BROMELAIN – from pineapple
DID YOU KNOW? – Unlike AHA’s, enzymes are NOT dependent on the pH.
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