Enzyme Exfoliant ·
Papain
What is it?
A proteolytic (protein-digesting) enzyme derived from papaya, used in skincare for enzymatic exfoliation.
What does it do?
Enzymatic exfoliant -- a systematic literature review found real in vitro/in vivo evidence that papain and related proteolytic enzymes can exfoliate skin and improve select skin characteristics, though only a small number of clinical studies exist. A separate mechanistic study found papain degrades keratinocyte tight-junction proteins and can act as a skin sensitizer/allergen independent of its enzymatic activity -- an important safety consideration for formulators and a reason to patch-test enzyme exfoliants.
Sources
This page provides general skincare information and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Ingredient interactions and evidence summaries reflect published, cited sources — not a personal assessment of your skin. For medical skin conditions, rashes, pregnancy/lactation questions or persistent concerns, please consult a licensed dermatologist or HPCSA-registered practitioner.