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How Do I Choose the Best Enzyme Cleanser?

Kristeen Moore
Kristeen Moore

An enzyme cleanser is made out of certain ingredients that are usually derived from fruits that contain natural enzyme molecules. Common ingredients include grapefruit, pumpkin, and papaya. The version of face wash that you choose depends largely on your skin type, as well as its sensitivity to certain features that are contained in these cleansers. Some of the most basic enzyme washes include fruit extracts, while other types contain alpha-hydroxy acids to help to prevent breakouts. Enzyme products range from gels and creams to exfoliating scrubs.

Enzymes are used in facial cleansers to help speed up the results of the particular products. The ingredients themselves are actually proteins that work with other features in beauty products to help to make them work quickly and more effectively. Washing your face with warm water tends affect the speed at which the product works. Enzymes can also be less effective when they are exposed to high temperatures; therefore, it is essential that you store your cleanser at room temperature in order to preserve it.

Enzyme cleansers are often derived from fruits.
Enzyme cleansers are often derived from fruits.

Your skin type plays a large role in determining the best version of enzyme cleanser to purchase. Generally, creamy cleansers work best for dry to combination skin, while oily skin benefits from enzyme cleanser gels. Alpha-hydroxy acids in certain versions have the potential to dry out skin that already lacks oil, and this particular ingredient might cause rashes in more sensitive skin. Enzyme scrubs are touted for use in all skin types, but you should use caution if you have skin rashes or preexisting blemishes because the grains can irritate them. Many product labels will state for which skin type the cleanser is intended.

Natural enzymes can be found in papaya.
Natural enzymes can be found in papaya.

The way you wash your face will determine the overall efficacy of the product, and not just the enzyme cleanser itself. Face washes should be massaged gently into the face in circles in order for the ingredients to take effect. Scrubbing too harshly can strip the face of its natural oils, a phenomenon that can make oily skin break out even more. After rinsing the cleanser with water, use a fresh towel to pat the face dry, avoiding any rough scrubbing. Since enzymes are considered to be powerful ingredients, it is important to note that you do not need to waste the product by using too much cleanser at once in order for the wash to work effectively.

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    • Enzyme cleansers are often derived from fruits.
      By: picsfive
      Enzyme cleansers are often derived from fruits.
    • Natural enzymes can be found in papaya.
      By: tashka2000
      Natural enzymes can be found in papaya.
    • Enzyme face washes should be massaged gently into the face.
      By: moonrise
      Enzyme face washes should be massaged gently into the face.