What are enzymes? Why are they so important? Enzymes frequently get overlooked since it can be difficult to understand how they work or what their job is. However, this chemical plays such a vital role in improving our physical health and can contribute to overall healthier, youthful skin.

There are many uses for enzymes, for everything from vitamins to skincare peels. Let’s explore how they can be used to improve the skin.

What exactly are enzymes?

Enzymes are a type of protein that exists in all living organisms. They are catalysts, meaning they are able to speed up chemical reactions and do not participate in the reaction themselves.

Among others, temperature and acidity activate the chemical reaction of an enzyme.

The enzymes we will discuss are normally extracted from fruits such as pineapple, papaya, and pumpkin and used in cleansers, face masks, peels, and more.

How are enzymes used in skincare?

The enzyme commonly used in skincare is known as the proteolytic enzyme and is used for exfoliating the skin’s surface through chemical means. When applied to the skin, these enzymes quickly break down the keratin protein, which is a bond that keeps dead skin cells together on the skin’s surface. This top layer is then able to shed, revealing a softer, more supple layer of skin underneath. Since this process removes the top layer of skin, it also helps to reduce scars and pigmentation as discolored layers of skin are shed at a faster rate.

Although it sounds like a harsh process, enzymes are gentler than many scrubs or physical exfoliants on the market, especially since they are extracted from fruits, papayas, and pineapples.

However, don’t be fooled by their gentle nature! Using enzymes daily, whether in the form of cleansers, face masks, or peels, can be more effective than some deeper peels.

Digestive enzymes

As mentioned, enzymes have also made an appearance in our foods as well. Digestive enzyme supplements can help your body to break down foods such as proteins, lipids, and carbs in a better and faster way. When more nutrients are available for the body from different foods, the skin is better nourished, which could lead to a reduction in acne and skin impurities.

When to use enzymes?

Like all skincare products, enzymes should be used daily until your skin is ready to increase usage slowly. Getting the skin used to the process is important to prevent any harsh chemical reactions at first.

It is possible to use enzymes as frequently as once a day. The beauty of enzymes is that they work chemically right on the spot and will show noticeable brightness and smoother skin after just one use. These results can outperform even the strongest peels or acids.

Conclusion

Try searching for enzymes as a key ingredient in your next skincare purchase. Regardless of the form, it’s in, it’s important to follow the instructions given on the box and use it as directed. When looking for an exfoliant that can remove dullness and texture, thus restoring youthfulness, radiance, and elasticity to the skin by eating away at dead skin cells, enzymes are highly recommended.

Where to find enzymes?

Sources

• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319704#the-basics
• https://www.drrashmishetty.com/what-is-enzymes-benefits-of-enzymes-on-your-skin/
• https://www.byrdie.com/what-are-enzymes-in-skincare-4693687
• https://www.self.com/story/are-enzymes-good-for-skin
• https://www.dermstore.com/blog/benefits-of-digestive-enzymes-skin/
• https://www.amano-enzyme.com/about-enzymes/