The remarkable benefits of topical enzymes in skincare - Body Basic | Body Basic

The remarkable benefits of topical enzymes in skincare

05 Sep 2025

When we think of skincare heroes, ingredients like Retinoids, Hyaluronic acid, and Vitamin C often steal the spotlight. But there’s another powerful player gaining recognition for its gentle yet transformative effects on the skin — plant and vegetable-based enzymes. Let’s explore the science and benefits behind the topical use of enzymes and why they deserve a place in your skincare regimen.

There are two different exfoliation mediums: physical and chemical exfoliation. Physical is the granules within a medium and chemical is enzymes and Alpha hydroxy acids.

Physical exfoliation explained

Remember the old fashioned ‘facial scrubs? They were made typically from unrefined, abrasive apricot and walnut shells. These rough mediums left the skin inflamed, dehydrated and often with micro tears. Don’t go there!

For this reason, we have chosen to use the latest Hydrogenated Jojoba Wax ester beads for an effective and non-irritating physical exfoliation. The spherical shaped beads lift the dead skin buildup while the chemical component of the formulation get to work on loosening up the protein bonds between the dead skin cells. Thats why you will experience excellent exfoliation benefits from both our products: K Phyto-ceutical Enzyme Face Buff and the CF Ceutical Exfo-brasion Cream.

In both K Phyto-ceutical and CF Ceutical skincare ranges, we have formulated two products that will take your skincare exfoliation regime to the next level. The K Phyto-ceutical Enzyme Face Buff and the CF Ceutical Exfo-brasion Cream. Both these products were formulated as a dual action exfoliation effect, Jojoba hydrogenated beads as the physical exfoliation component combined with the chemical component of powerful enzymes as well as alpha hydroxy acids. These treatment products offer visible results after only one application!

Chemical exfoliation – The effect that fruit and vegetable enzymes will have on your skin

Unlike Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), enzyme exfoliants are non-abrasive and typically well-tolerated by sensitive skin conditions. When you experience a dull and rough skin from time to time, it’s time to bring out the enzymes! Enzymes gently break down keratin proteins bonds (glue) in the top layer of the skin, effectively removing dead skin cells. Most skincare enzymes are derived from natural sources such as Papaya (papain), Pineapple (bromelain), Pumpkin, or fermentation processes.

Dead skin cells are based in the superficial layers of your skin and present themselves as shield-like spheres stacked together. These are known as corneocytes. The keratin protein bonds between the corneocytes are also known as protein glue and these glue-bonds (corneodesmosomes), keeps the dead skin cells intact, like a shield. By applying enzymes, these glue-bonds that holds the dead skin cells together, are dissolved by the enzymes and allow dead skin cells to flake away. Leaving behind a healthy, soft glowing skin.