Papain is a substance of natural origin. It is used in the production of enzyme peels, among others. Learn about its properties and effects.

Papain – what is it?

A chemical compound called papain belongs to a group of enzymes, or proteins that regulate important biosynthetic and breakdown (digestion) processes in the body. Papain Papain is similar to pepsin, naturally occurring in the human body. It acts proteolytically – it affects the decomposition of amino acids and proteins, which is important in the process of exfoliation of dead epidermis.

Papain’s main mechanism of action and its other beneficial properties make the enzyme a valuable ingredient in cosmetics – and more.

Carica papaya – source of papain

A natural source of papain is the papaya, or melon tree (Carica papaya). The enzyme is found in unripe papaya fruit, from which it can be extracted and processed into raw materials for cosmetic products, among other things.

Papaya is a fruit that grows on perennial plants that reach heights of up to 10 meters. The plant is grown in tropical and subtropical areas. It originates from South and Central America and the southern regions of North America. The oval or pear-shaped fruits of the melon tree are up to 45 cm long and up to 30 cm in diameter. As they ripen, they change color from green to dark yellow or orange.

Properties and uses of papain

The enzymatic nature of papain means that consumption of papaya supports digestive processes. Fresh papaya fruits rich in vitamins (including A, E, C and B), flavonoids, carotenoids and minerals are available commercially. You can also buy dietary supplements containing papain. In the food industry, the enzyme from papaya is also used to tenderize meat and to give dishes a crisp texture.

Papain can be found in the formulation of many skin care products. Papain’s ability to exfoliate dead cells makes this substance used in the production of enzyme peels.

Effect of papaya enzyme on the skin

In cosmetics and cosmetology, the enzymatic action of papain results in its use for gentle exfoliation of dead epidermis. The enzyme derived from papaya loosens the bonds between the cells of the stratum corneum. As a result, it facilitates the exfoliation of the top layer of the skin, that is, the removal of dead cells, the accumulation of which is detrimental to the condition of the skin.

Papain exhibits a number of properties beneficial to the health and appearance of the skin:

• reduces the thickness of the stratum corneum;
• smooths the surface of the skin;
• purifies and refreshes the skin;
• has a regenerative effect – stimulates cell renewal;
• accelerates the healing of the epidermis;
• brightens the complexion;
• reduces acne discoloration;
• has an anti-inflammatory effect;
• soothes acne lesions.

How to use papain?

As part of home skin care, it is worth using papain contained in gentle enzyme peels. The best results come from the sytematic use of peel once or twice a week. When doing so, it is important to follow the correct order of care.

Papaya – indications for use on the skin

Cosmetics with papain are an excellent choice for those with dry or rough skin, in need of smoothing and refreshing. Papain’s anti-inflammatory properties will also help with skin problems such as acne lesions, blocked pores and inflammation. Papain will also help delay signs of aging – this is due to the ability of this enzyme to stimulate the production of new skin cells. As a consequence of cell renewal, wrinkles and fine lines can be reduced.

Papain can be used by those with sensitive and irritation-prone skin. Enzyme peel with papain is also a good idea if your skin does not tolerate fruit acids.

Papaya enzyme is an ingredient safe for pregnant and lactating women.

The benefits of enzyme peeling with papain can be enjoyed all year round.

Enzyme face peel with papain

The undoubted advantage of the enzyme face peel with papain is its gentle action. The ingredient exfoliates only dead cells and has no irritating effect on living skin tissue. Thus, it significantly reduces the risk of irritation in comparison with mechanical scrubs and acid peels.

Papain is an ingredient in two enzyme facial peels from dottore:

• puratore home,
• rossatore peel home.

Before buying a cosmetic, check which peel will be best for you.

Facial treatment with papain

Papaya enzyme is used not only in home care. It is also an important part of professional skin care in a beauty salon. Noteworthy is the puratore treatment – a brightening and refreshing procedure based on papain. The treatment is safe also for sensitive skin. It can be performed in series or as a banquet treatment. While relaxing at the cosmetologist, gentle exfoliation of the stratum corneum is accompanied by deep nourishment of the skin. After the treatment, the skin is perfectly purified, brightened, smooth, soft and supple.