Enzyme Exfoliators: What, why, how and when?

By now we all know the importance of exfoliating our skin, so I am not going to get into that too much. My focus is going to be on enzyme exfoliators instead of the usual granular type. 

So, WHAT is an enzyme exfoliator? An enzyme exfoliator contains either fruit or chemical exfoliants which rids your skin of old skin cells for a brighter face without the granules. 

So, WHY would you use an enzyme exfoliator instead of a granular one? Granular exfoliators can be harsh on the skin, especially if you have active acne. Granular exfoliators can break the skin which could lead to scarring and infection.

So, HOW do you use it? You apply it to the skin, as you would a face cream, massaging it into the skin, and leave it on for the recommended time. I personally leave mine on overnight, and I wake up to noticeably fresher more radiant skin. As with all exfoliants, it is important to moisturise after using it, as it can be drying.

Lastly, WHEN should you use it? Enzyme exfoliators can be used anytime, there is no down time, and can be used as often as you would a granular exfoliator. I try to use it once a week, but it depends on your skin. Over exfoliating is not good for your skin either, as it strips your skin of natural oils and could even cause your skin to over produce oils which could lead to break outs. 

Fellow friend, beauty blogger, fitness freak and qualified medical aesthetician Yasmin, of Shades of Mink Blog has a DIY recipe for an enzyme exfoliator. Check it out here: DIY Fruit Enzyme Exfoliator

If DIY is not your thing, the two enzyme exfoliators I use are affordable and give excellent results. 

Skin Science Rejuvenating Enzyme Exfoliator is sold on Rubybox and at Dischem. 

It costs R129.95 for 50ml. 

Sknlogic enzyme exfoliator is sold on Style 36 and on the Sknlogic website.

It costs R115 for 75ml. 

I have included write ups on each from the websites mentioned above:

This apple fragranced gentle exfoliator is a combination of fruit enzymes and apple stem cells that lifts and gently peels away old dry skin, revealing a new radiant skin. Widely believed to be one of the most effective skin renewal treatments with a host of benefits that leaves you with soft and radiant skin. Suitable for all skin types.

Directions:

After cleansing apply a generous amount of Revitalising Enzyme Exfoliator to the face and neck. Massage into skin for 1 to 3 minutes. After another minute rinse off with lukewarm water. 

Tip: Leave overnight for optimum results. 

A powerful skin polisher that combines natural and chemical exfoliants to refine skin texture and enhance penetration of actives into skin, while papaya extract not only works as an enzyme but works to repair the skin as well. Suitable for all skin types.

Directions: Apply after cleansing and toning to dampened skin to remove dead skin cells. Scrub gently using circular motions, avoiding the eye area. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Follow with your moisturiser. For maximum results use 2 to 3 times per week. Pair with a face mask to further promote overall skin health.

Both of these brands have a full range of products which they recommend to be used in conjunction with the exfoliators, as do all cosmetic companies. I personally don't though, but that's up to you.

All the tips I have given are from my own experiences and from reading beauty and skin care articles and magazines. I am not qualified as a skin care therapist, so please do patch tests and your own research.

Happy Exfoliating!