ENZYMATIC EXFOLIATORS

I had posted some months ago on my Instagram about the two different types of exfoliation: chemical vs mechanical and which methods are best to combat specific ailments, < Thats a cue to follow me on my skin page Skyn_x_courtnynicole>. Recently, I tried out Skinscrpts ever popular Coconut-Papaya enzyme peel and have decided (in my mind) that ENZYMES are a gentle yet highly effective subset of chemical exfoliators that need to be talked about!

WHAT ARE ENZYMES: By definition, Enzymes are proteins that act as a catalyst to accelerate chemical reactions. In the case of skincare Enzymes within in peels, and your favorite skin products are usually derived from fruits or vegetables, and help to do the following:

1.)    Break down and dissolve dead skin cells resulting in softer more glowing skin

2.)   Deliver antioxidants to help repair damaged skin cells and stabilize free radicals which cause cell damage.

3.)   Can contain AHA’s (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) which help to soften skin/stimulate cell renewal

4.)   Can target a number of skin issues such as brightening, acne, aging-skin (although it would happen at a much slower pace than more intense chemical peels, but an excellent substitution in a home care regimen.

WHO ARE THEY GOOD FOR: 

All skin types!

(YAAAAY, not unless you would be allergic of course to its source) Enzyme peels and masks are a really effective yet gentle way to exfoliate the skin, basically with little if any down time what so ever. You may have some type of sensitivity or redness of course so always make sure to continue using sunscreen; if using them.

 WHERE CAN I GET THEM:

Enzymes can be incorporated into face masks such as Peter Thomas Roth’s ever popular Pumpkin Enzyme Mask, or by an esthetician in peel form; they can be in exfoliating cleansers and toners as well with the same function as I named in the above sections. The great thing is that they can also be paired with other treatments such as microdermabrasion, derma-plane, micro-needling to deliver there beautiful benefits even deeper (but please leave these to a professional). 

COMMON ENZYMES YOU’LL SEE:

Papain – derived from papaya * Bromelain – pineapple * Lemon – antioxidant enzyme * Blueberry -antioxidant enzyme* Pomegranate- antioxidant enzyme * Pumpkin –contain AHA’s (Alpha Hydroxy Acid ) 

 I guess its even more true what they say: make sure you get your fruits and veggies!