No sales for Black Friday at Typology
Complimentary gift with every purchase over £75
Get your personalized diagnosis in under 4 minutes
Library
All Topics
Exfoliation enzymatique.

Enzymatic Exfoliation: What is it?

Particularly recommended for sensitive skin, the enzymatic exfoliation is the suitable treatment to regain a clear and radiant complexion. Quick and gentle, it works through a chemical reaction to rid the skin of residues such as dead cells or impurities, without causing harm. Learn more about this form of exfoliation in this article.

Summary
Published August 22, 2023, updated on August 8, 2024, by Manon, Scientific Editor — 4 min read
Exfoliation
Enzymatic Exfoliation

Enzymatic Exfoliation: What is it?

As its name suggests, an enzymatic exfoliant is a type of chemical exfoliant that primarily contains enzymes. This type of exfoliant does not require scrubbing to rid the skin of dead cells and impurities. Unlike so-called mechanical exfoliants, it does not contain grains, thus proving less abrasive for sensitive, dry or weakened skin.

This process utilises active ingredients such as AHA and BHA, which have diverse origins. The AHAs, or alpha-hydroxy acids, act like proteases by breaking the glycoprotein bonds that connect dead cells to the stratum corneum. The BHAs, also known as beta-hydroxy acids, differ from AHAs in their keratolytic properties. They are capable of detaching and eliminating dead cells present on the surface of the epidermis. These acids can be of plant origin, derived from fruits such as pineapple, figs or apricots, or extracted from yeasts.

The virtues of an enzymatic exfoliation.

An enzymatic exfoliation offers several benefits for the balance of the skin.

  • A targeted action: the enzymes included in the skincare product work on impurities and dead cells;

  • A treatment gentler than a mechanical exfoliation, typically suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin;

  • A rapid action, whose effectiveness operates in just a few minutes;

  • The absence of tingling or tugging sensations that can be felt during a traditional exfoliation;

  • A wide range of formats: peeling or exfoliating lotion, peeling or exfoliating mask, or even powder that, upon contact with water, transforms into foam. On Typology, you will discover these different variants, notably our exfoliating serum with glycolic acid or our peeling mask with red fruit acids.

Note: Enzymatic exfoliation is a treatment to be used with caution as it can make the skin more sensitive to UV rays. Therefore, it is important to follow the product instructions.

On which parts of the body should the enzymatic scrub be applied?

Enzymatic exfoliants are primarily used on:

  • The face: taking care to avoid the eyes and mucous membranes;

  • The neck: as the skin there is particularly thin.

However, it is possible to adopt an enzymatic exfoliation designed exclusively for the body or with a targeted action for both the face and body.

How to use the enzymatic scrub?

To reap its benefits, the enzymatic exfoliation should be used once or twice a week. To do this:

  1. Cleanse and dry your skin beforehand.

  2. Gently apply the treatment to the skin;

  3. Allow the product to sit for the time indicated on the packaging, usually a few minutes;

  4. Rinse off the treatment.

It's worth noting that cellular regeneration occurs during the night. By performing your exfoliation in the evening, you will enhance the skin regulation process. To appreciate the results, don't hesitate to finish your routine with a hydrating mask.

Diagnostic

Understand your skin
and its complex needs.

Read more