Fruit enzymes for skin: FAQ and how to use them
Posted on October 26, 2021 Written by: 100% PURE ®
As the air gets chillier, some of us might notice our cheeks getting a little rosier after stepping outside. We might also feel our skin becoming dry and more dull from the cold, calling for an urgent pick-me-up.
Of course, exfoliating is the answer! But what’s one to do when scrubs, AHAs, and BHAs are too much? You turn to fruit enzymes! Fruit enzymes can free up dead skin cells, diminish dullness, and amplify the skin’s luminosity. And to top it off, fruit enzymes for skin are incredibly gentle.
In this post, we’re talking all about fruit enzymes for skin. We’ll take a closer look at what they are, which ones to go for, and the do’s and don’ts of using them.
Found most prevalently in tropical fruits like papaya, pineapple, and kiwi, enzymes are unique compounds that can break down proteins. Enzymes are known to have many benefits, like improving digestion and boosting immunity. And they can also help to exfoliate skin (more on that later)!
So what’s the difference between enzymes and acids, specifically AHAs and BHAs? Enzymes and acids do have a few things in common: both are gentle exfoliants, and they work to slough off dead skin cells. But while acids penetrate deep into the skin, enzymes only work the surface. Plus, they don’t disrupt your skin’s pH balance, so they’re easier on your skin barrier.
Now that we have a better understanding of fruit enzymes, it’s time to answer the question: why use fruit enzymes for skin?
With their ability to gently break down proteins, fruit enzymes on skin work to digest the bonds that keep dead skin cells stuck to your skin’s surface. Through this gentle exfoliation, the outermost skin layer has an easier time shedding that excess layer of dead skin, revealing a radiant glow from beneath.
And because fruit enzymes for skin are so gentle, they can be great for those who find AHAs and BHAs to be too intense for their sensitive or acne-prone skin. Fruit enzymes can also be great for those who wish to exfoliate regularly without oversensitizing their skin.
Interestingly, though, they can actually work wonderfully when combined with these acids to eliminate dullness, renew the skin, and foster glowing skin. Keep in mind, though, that this may be too much for those who haven’t been exfoliating for some time.
Now that we see how fruit enzymes can help skin shed dead skin cells and brighten up, let’s talk about the different fruit enzymes that are available, and where they come from.
Papaya Enzymes
Often referred to as papain, papaya enzymes are known for their ability to break down the protein chains surrounding the muscles. And as shown in studies like this one, papain may be effective at preventing oxidative stress caused by free radical damage.
Pineapple Enzymes
Pineapple enzymes, or bromelain, are rich in a type of enzyme called cysteine proteases, which in studies have been shown to be helpful for healing wounds and bruises.
Pumpkin Enzymes
Pumpkin enzymes are an exfoliant powerhouse. They contain alpha-hydroxy acids, which are especially known for their ability to slough off dead skin cells and improve skin cell turnover.
Kiwi Enzymes
Kiwi enzymes, or actinidin, are a pH-balancing exfoliator that’s particularly high in vitamin C. Vitamin C is a fantastic antioxidant for fading dark spots, reversing UV damage, and supporting collagen production for plumper, more elastic skin.
Even though fruit enzymes are a more gentle form of exfoliation, it’s still best to approach them with caution when first adding them to your regimen. Here are the basic steps for incorporating fruit enzymes into your skin care routine:
Step 1: Where to Find Enzymes for Skin
While fruit enzymes may sound like a relatively new ingredient, they can actually be found in tons of skin care products, including:
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Cleansers
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Toners
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Serums
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Leave-On Exfoliants
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Masks
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Moisturizers
Each product comes with its own unique benefits. The best fruit enzyme product for you is going to depend on your own needs and preferences.
Step 2: When to Use Fruit Enzymes for Skin
One of the beautiful things about fruit enzymes is that they can be used any time of the day! Incorporate them into your daily routine, nightly routine, or both.
But as with any new skin care product, it’s recommended to slowly incorporate fruit enzymes into your skin care routine. Generally speaking, fruit enzymes should initially be used 1-2 times per week. Give special attention to how they’re making your skin react in those first 2-3 weeks.
Step 3: Storing Your Fruit Enzyme Skin Care
Similar to products with vitamin C, enzyme skin care products may be prone to losing effectiveness when stored improperly. Specifically, enzymes are sensitive to changes in temperature, which can change the pH and degrade their effectiveness, rendering them denatured.
In order to keep your enzyme skin care preserved, make sure to store it in a cool, dark place. Always make sure to properly seal the packaging after each use.
Fruit enzymes can be game changers in your skin brightening routine. But that doesn’t mean you can use them with reckless abandon; keep these rules in mind when adding them to your routine.
Do: Incorporate Other Actives
If you’re regularly exfoliating with AHAs and BHAs, and you’re looking for a skin-sloughing boost, fruit enzymes can make a great addition. Meanwhile, retinol is a vitamin-A derivative that’s renowned for its anti-aging benefits. It may actually work great when combined with enzymes!
Don’t: Go Crazy Combining
While enzymes can be incredibly effective, it’s generally not recommended to immediately use them every single day. However, this is true for all actives. That being said, enzymes can work in tandem with acids and retinol. But only combine them if you’re familiar with them and the way they affect your skin.
Do: Start With a Patch Test
It’s never a bad idea to perform a patch test with a new product, especially if you tend to have sensitive skin. To do so, apply a product as directed on a small patch of skin, and take note of any changes that occur over the following 24-48 hours.
Don’t: Skip the SPF
Sunscreen is always a crucial step for keeping your skin protected. It’s important to especially make sure to apply your SPF if you’re exfoliating, since that tends to make the skin more photo-sensitive.
- Tags: Ingredients, October-2021, Skin Care
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The information in this article is for educational use, and not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should not be used as such.
