Enzymes in Skincare
Have you ever wondered how our Daily Face Polish reveals a smooth texture without the use of granules? Enzymes.
Enzymes, essential in the performance of digestion, are a type of protein that act as a catalyst to speed chemical reactions helping to break down proteins, fats, carbohydrates, etc. When used topically in skincare, enzymes break down keratinocytes in the epidermis.
Keratinocytes, or keratin, are the main protein found in the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis. It’s what we think of when we think of dead skin cells. Keratin is largely responsible for the skin’s immunity, helping to maintain the health of the acid mantle. It aids the formation of the skin's protective barrier that fights against infection and UV damage while also helping the skin to retain hydration. When there is a buildup of keratin skin can tend to have an uneven texture and feel sluggish, dull or congested.
To alleviate the feeling of buildup on skin, including pore visibility, the use of enzymes and both chemical and physical exfoliants come into play. Enzymes provide similar results to exfoliants by refining texture, helping to diminish the appearance of hyperpigmentation and scars while also, like exfoliants, increase the efficacy of other products in your routine. We find that just as phyto-retinols are a gentle alternative to retinoids, enzymes are a great alternative to acids. Enzymes can be a beneficial alternative for those with sensitive skin that react negatively to more powerful chemical exfoliants. This is in part due to the neutral pH enzymes offer. They are effective at breaking the bond of dead skin cells by dissolving cellular debris to support a healthy cellular turnover rate, but without much effect to the acid mantle as they work exclusively on the surface of skin.
When beginning the use of any new product formulated to slough layers of the epidermis we suggest starting slow. Mindfully incorporating the use of enzymes into your routine will help alleviate any sensitivity that may occur. Most of the time you’ll find enzymes paired with acids in formulations, so to err on the side of caution we recommend using these exfoliating products once weekly. When it comes to our Daily Face Polish this product can be used daily due to the pH balanced formulation and reliance on the enzyme activity of raw, organic honey.
As a brand we offer a range of products showcasing enzymes that will help reveal smooth, supple skin that is balanced, less reactive with time and retains hydration of your most concentrated products. We believe plant-based products can perform while still remaining clean and we’re dedicated to formulating luxurious products that provide professional results without sacrificing our impeccable ingredient standards.
Our favorite enzyme rich products:
Daily Face Polish | Raw, Organic Honey
Blue Green Algae Facial Mask | Organic Blue Green Algae
Bright Facial Mask | Organic Kelp
Hepburn Facial Mask | Organic Pineapple
Pigmentation Facial Mask | Organic Pineapple and Organic Galangal Root