Let’s explore how enzymes work in skin care and why they have become a favorite among beauty enthusiasts.

Discovering Superfood Enzymes: What Are They?

Fruit and plant enzymes can help you achieve a more refined complexion, whether experienced in spa treatments or through our home care rituals. Enzyme treatments often encompass a holistic approach to skin care. They not only exfoliate but can also provide hydration, nourishment and antioxidant protection, contributing to overall skin health. Our skin is primarily composed of a protein called keratin. As we age, decreased cellular turnover causes the top layer of our epidermis (the stratum corneum) to thicken, resulting in a buildup of dead skin cells. This buildup can make our complexion appear dull. 

Enzyme exfoliators gently dissolve the bonds (keratin) holding dead cells to the skin, which in turn addresses issues like an uneven skin tone, the appearance of dark spots and the telltale signs of aging.Fortunately, enzymes can help address this issue. Enzymes derived from superfoods like pineapple, kiwi and papaya support the skin’s natural renewal process by acting as catalysts that accelerate biological processes, enhancing the skin’s natural exfoliation. Enzyme exfoliators gently dissolve the bonds (keratin) holding dead cells to the skin, which in turn addresses issues like an uneven skin tone, the appearance of dark spots and the telltale signs of aging. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits. 

The Benefits Of Enzymatic Exfoliation

Enzymatic exfoliation promotes the look of bright, smooth and refreshed skin. Since enzymes provide gentle exfoliation on the surface of the skin, enzyme exfoliation rarely causes irritation or downtime and is widely recommended by skin care professionals for all skin types, even the most sensitive. Here are some of the other key benefits for your skin: 

Gentle Exfoliation

Enzymes target the bonds (keratin) between dead cells on the skin’s surface, helping to gently break them down and remove these cells. This process reveals brighter, fresher skin underneath and helps to even out skin tone. 

Gentle for Sensitive Skin

Enzymes provide gentle exfoliation without causing irritation or redness, making them suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types. 

Brightening & Radiance

Enzymes like papain can promote a brightening of the skin by removing dull surface cells. The exfoliation enzymes also allow for deeper penetration of subsequent products, including ones made with radiance-enhancing antioxidants.

Customized Exfoliation

Different enzymes target specific types of skin concerns. For instance, papain and bromelain are excellent choices for gentle exfoliation, while lipase can help control excess oil. This allows for more personalized skin care routines and in-spa treatments.

Improved Appearance Of Skin Texture

By dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, enzyme exfoliators smooth out the skin’s surface, reducing the appearance of fine lines and improving texture. 

Reduction In The Look Of Dark Spots

Enzyme exfoliators are effective in reducing the look of dark spots. They work by accelerating the turnover of pigmented cells, leading to a more uniform skin tone and diminished appearance of discoloration​. 

Sources of Enzymes in Skin Care

Enzymes used in skin care are often derived from fruits and vegetables. For optimal results, look for enzyme exfoliators containing various fruit enzymes (like actinidin, bromelain, papain) and plant-based enzymes (like lipase). Each offers unique benefits while promoting the emergence of newer skin cells. You can find them in superfoods such as:

Kiwi (Actinidin Enzyme)

Actinidin is an enzyme derived from kiwi fruit that helps to exfoliate the upper layer of the skin and remove dead skin cells to promote a smoother complexion without irritation. 

Pineapple (Bromelain Enzyme)

Bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapple, is ideal for sensitive, irritated or rosacea-prone skin due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties. This makes the skin appear calmer and more even-toned. Pineapple is also a rich source of vitamin C, an antioxidant which improves the look of elasticity and youthfulness in the skin. 

Papaya (Papain Enzyme)

Papain enzyme, derived from papaya breaks down the bonds (keratin) between dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. This enzymatic action promotes a clearer and more refined complexion.

Fermented Plant Sugars (Lipase Enzyme)

Lipase, an enzyme used for oil control, is sourced from fermented plant sugars. This enzyme is used to break down oil. 

For a skin care routine tailored to your unique skin type and concerns, book a consultation with a licensed esthetician with us!

It’s no secret that collagen is a celebrated ingredient, essential for maintaining a youthful-looking complexion. But as we age, we experience a drop in collagen synthesis, leading to the development of sagging skin, fine lines and wrinkles. It’s no wonder collagen-boosting products have become all the rage. Today, you can find collagen in both topical skin care and oral supplements — but which is more effective?

We’ll deep dive into the differences between oral collagen supplements and topical collagen in skin care, how topical peptides come into play, and what you can expect from collagen skin care.

Topical Collagen In Skin Care: Does It Work?

Collagen is often termed as the skin’s mortar (fun fact: its name comes from the Greek word, “kolla,” meaning glue). This structural protein binds our cells and tissues together, helping them retain their strength and elasticity. Unfortunately, the synthesis of collagen diminishes over time, leading to the emergence of sagging skin, fine lines and wrinkles. This is where topical collagen steps in.  To read the rest of article click here. 

Every time a pimple pops up on your face, we know what you’re thinking: This is war. But it’s actually after you’ve conquered the enemy (with your arsenal of skin care products) that the battle truly begins. Eliminating these short-lived blemishes often leaves long-lasting acne scars which can be the most disheartening part of clearing away pimples. Read on to find out how to get rid of the look of acne scars and reduce the appearance of dark spots from acne.

What Are Acne Scars?

First of all, what exactly are acne scars and why do they mark the skin? Dermatologist Dr. Lily Talakoub explains that acne scarring occurs when “the skin displays an inflammatory response to previous acne (whiteheads, cysts, nodules, etc.) and physical intervention such as picking or popping.” Acne scars can occur in different forms and it’s not unusual to suffer from multiple types of scars.  

The Most Common Types Of Acne Scars

Acne scars typically fall into two primary categories, with a third type — the raised keloid scar — appearing less commonly. The first category includes dark acne spots, often left behind as pigmented reminders of past breakouts. The second type includes depressed acne scars, which are indentations on the skin. These come in different shapes: rolling scars with a wavy appearance, ice pick scars that are deep and narrow, and boxcar scars with wider, more pronounced edges. Let’s unpack this more.

Dark Acne Spots 

Dark acne spots, often called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), are flat spots of darker skin that stay after an acne lesion has healed. Dark acne spots tend to form when the skin’s natural healing process triggers the production of excess melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color) in response to inflammation. The discoloration can range in color from pink to red, brown or black, depending on your skin tone and the depth of the discoloration. The duration these spots remain visible can vary widely, from a few weeks to several months or even longer. PIH can develop in all skin types, but it tends to be more severe and longer-lasting for people with medium to dark complexions, according to Very Well Health.

Depressed Acne Scars Such As Rolling, Ice Pick & Boxcar Scars 

Indented scars are caused when inflammation occurs in acne-damaged skin tissue. The lack of collagen causes the scar tissue to sink into the skin, resulting in textured scars. Ice pick scars are in the shape of a point and boxcar scars appear with a wider base. Rolling scars, on the other hand, are shallower and softer to the touch.  To read rest of article click here.