Enzyme Exfoliant

General Recipe:

1. Water (60-80%): Water is often the main ingredient in most skincare products and serves as the carrier for other ingredients.

2. Enzyme Complex (1-10%): Enzymes such as papain (from papaya) or bromelain (from pineapple) are often used. They work by breaking down the proteins that hold dead skin cells together.

3. Humectants (5-15%): Humectants, like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, help attract and retain moisture in the skin.

4. Emollients (1-5%): These ingredients, like jojoba oil or squalane, help soften and smooth the skin.

5. Emulsifiers (1-3%): They help combine water and oil components. Examples include lecithin and polysorbate 20.

6. Thickeners/Viscosity Controllers (0.5-2%): These ingredients help create a pleasant texture and may include xanthan gum or hydroxyethylcellulose.

7. Preservatives (0.5-1.5%): Preservatives like phenoxyethanol or sodium benzoate help to prevent microbial growth and extend the shelf life of the product.

8. pH Adjusters (as needed): Enzyme exfoliants typically function best at a neutral to slightly acidic pH. You can use pH adjusters like citric acid or sodium hydroxide to fine-tune the pH as necessary.

9. Additional Actives (1-5%): These can be ingredients like antioxidants or soothing agents like allantoin or green tea extract.

These use natural enzymes from fruits like papaya or pineapple to dissolve dead skin cells. They're usually gentler than AHAs, BHAs, or physical exfoliants, making them suitable for sensitive skin.