Benefits of Fruit Enzymes in Skincare

Fruit enzymes offer gentle exfoliation to the skin for a natural glow. As an exfoliator for all skin types, fruit enzymes gently resurface skin to provide a smooth, radiant complexion. They're very effective yet so mild that even those with the most sensitive skin can use them. Fruit enzymes break down the keratin protein from the outer layer of the skin, which bonds dead skin cells together. As a result, your skin texture will be even, and the breakdown process shows a reduction in scars and pigmentation. A few of our favorite benefits of using fruit enzymes in skincare are listed below:

improves digestive health when consumed
reduction in clogged pores if used as an exfoliant
fades dark spots and hyperpigmentation

Fruit enzyme benefits in skincare

Gently exfoliate
Brighten dull skin
Soothe inflammation

Fruit enzymes break down the keratin protein in the uppermost layer of skin, which bonds dead skin cells together. With this process, the dead skin can gently slough off, resulting in smoother, softer skin and helping diminish scars and pigmentation. Most fruit enzymes used in skincare products are sourced from, you guessed it, fruits and vegetables. These fruit enzymes are called "proteolytic enzymes," and their role is to break down proteins. Have you ever wondered why your mouth may feel stung or tingle slightly after eating pineapple? This is because the fruit enzymes break down the flesh in your mouth!

How fruit enzymes remove dead skin cells

Like digestive enzymes in your stomach, fruit enzymes break down proteins. For example, on your skin, fruit enzymes digest away the keratin protein in the outermost layer of your skin, helping you remove rough, dull, dead skin cells to reveal soft, glowing skin underneath. Fruit enzymes exfoliate the skin by breaking down the material that binds dead skin cells together, meaning they remove only the topmost layer of dead skin cells at the surface. They also actively soothe skin; in skincare, fruit enzymes are most used as a safe and gentle form of exfoliation. Fruit enzymes are perfect for everyone, especially those with sensitive and acne-prone skin.

The best digestive fruit enzymes in skincare

Papaya

Papaya enzymes dissolve and remove dead skin cells, improving skin tone and texture. Papaya may also help with wound healing and reduce inflammation.

Pineapple

Bromelain, the fruit enzyme found in pineapple, is considered particularly helpful for wound healing and treating bruising. In addition, these enzymes are known to brighten skin tone while being an antioxidant and preventing skin from pollution damage during the day.

Banana

Banana peels are rich in enzymes, and the enzymes in banana skin have a pulling action that will draw foreign toxins to the skin's surface, making it much easier to exfoliate.

Passionfruit

Passionfruit enzyme is an intense boost of antioxidants that are the perfect option for skincare. They contain compounds that help prevent the skin from free radicals and repair U.V. damage.

Guava

The range of vitamins and antioxidants packed into guava will work wonders for your skin. For example, its antioxidants will protect your skin from damage, which can slow down its aging process, helping prevent wrinkles.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin fruit enzyme contains alpha-hydroxy acids that help to speed up cell regeneration. As a result, you get newer skin cells quicker, leaving you radiant and smooth skin. In addition, pumpkin contains vitamins A and C. Both are potent antioxidants that destroy free radicals.

Mango

The high vitamin C content in mango helps support your body's natural collagen production. In addition, the high antioxidant content helps prevent sun damage and premature aging. Mangos also hydrate your skin when combined with a skincare product and applied topically.

Should you try fruit enzymes for health benefits?

Different fruit enzymes in separate steps of your routine boost exfoliation without irritating the skin. Fruit enzymes work with your other products in the same routine to increase their smoothing and brightening power. However, if the concentration is intense, do a patch test first. Retinol is another popular skincare ingredient that works with fruit enzymes to rejuvenate and smooth radiant skin.

When can you use skincare products with fruit enzymes?

You can use fruit enzymes multiple times a day if desired. Since they mainly remove dead skin cells, there's little to no risk of irritating the skin, even if you use an enzyme product twice a day. However, be sure to check acidity levels or do a patch test.

Are fruit enzymes safe for acne-prone and sensitive skin?

The short answer is yes; fruit enzymes, combined with resurfacing the skin, removing dead skin cells, and soothing inflammation, make them a good ingredient for acne. In addition, fruit enzymes are the safest exfoliants for sensitive skin because they don't disturb the healthy skin cells underneath the more dried or dead cells.

Fruit enzymes vs. fruit acids

Fruit enzymes are not strictly better than acids but can be more suitable for specific skin types and issues. They are a gentler way to exfoliate and brighten the complexion and are especially beneficial for those with sensitive skin or pregnant.

AHA and BHA acids are more potent than fruit and work deep into the skin; this way, there is a chance for potential irritation. Fruit enzymes are an excellent choice for those unable to tolerate acids and need a gentler touch. Fruit enzyme-based products are lovely because they don't disrupt your skin's pH. However, certain skin types will require acids to get results. Fruit enzymes aren't as good at dissolving oil and treating congestion, so if that's your primary focus, we recommend sticking with a salicylic acid-based product.

How often should you use fruit enzymes in your skincare routine?

Even though fruit enzymes are a more gentle alternative to exfoliation, we still recommend proceeding with caution. Slowly introduce your new fruit enzyme product once to twice weekly, then build up towards more frequent use. This method of adding to your skincare routine is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive ones. A gradual increase in use is the best way to introduce an exfoliating product into your skincare routine in order to keep healthy skin. As a general rule of thumb, always follow the instructions on the product. It does vary with sensitive skin but, generally speaking, you can use fruit enzymes every two to three days. Of course, with fruit enzymes, it depends on your skin goals and if you're using other exfoliants too.