Enzyme Scrubs: The New, Gentle Exfoliators You Need
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Enzyme Scrubs: The New, Gentle Exfoliators You Need

Heavy duty exfoliators are now considered a pariah in the world of skincare. But if you were someone who liked the feeling of your skin after a good scrub, all is not lost. Derived mainly from plant sources, fruit enzymes work to unglue the bonds between dead skin cells, improving skin tone without irritating sensitive types. Here's how to use some of our favourites...
01

African Botanics Marula Buchu Botanical Enzyme Polish, £60

Ideal for clearing out pores and preventing acne, this oil-controlling polish uses fine volcanic mineral granules to refine skin’s texture, while papaya and pineapple enzymes provide a deep cleanse. Additional antioxidants and marula oils seal in moisture and boost collagen over time, too.

Available at NetaPorter.Com

02

Herbivore Brighten Instant Glow Mask, £38

Herbivore’s cult skincare buys are the definition of glow-giving, and their newest mask is no exception. Pineapple enzymes gently exfoliate, while rice bran powder softens and smooths. Designed to improve pigmentation, it refines uneven texture while bringing out a fresh, glow that’s noticeable after just the first use. Using organic ingredients and a cruelty-free formula, the packaging is completely recyclable and reusable.

Available at SpaceNk.com

03

Susanne Kaufmann Enzyme Peel, £49

Think of Susanne Kaufmann’s exfoliator as a hydrating juice for your face. Fruit extracts including apples, papayas and kiwis work together to brighten and pull out impurities, while boosting radiance at the same time. We like to leave it on for 10 minutes before wiping off with a warm cloth. Use it once a week and you’ll probably find the rest of your products work better too.

Available at CultBeauty.com

04

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Gentle Treatment, £55

Dubbed as ‘The Hollywood two-minute facial,’ this dual-action exfoliator uses papaya, pineapple and pumpkin enzymes to counteract dullness, dryness and uneven skin tone by loosening dead cells and dirt. Any potential irritation is counteracted by aloe vera and antibacterial honey, which soften skin and provide instant moisture, too. A firm favourite among industry insiders, use it once or twice a week pre-cleanse for the best results.

Available at CultBeauty.com

05

Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask, £50

This Peter Thomas Roth mask is everything a mask should be and more. Infused with aluminium oxide crystals (the same used in microdermabrasion), AHAs and pumpkin enzyme, it delivers optimum results. The skin-softening formula isn’t the least bit gritty, yet leaves skin looking visibly more radiant and smoother. You may get a little redness post-use, but this should disappear after a few minutes. 

Available at CultBeauty.com

06

Wishful Yo Glow Enzyme Scrub, £34

Huda Kattan (founder of Huda Beauty) has launched a new skincare line, Wishful, following her own struggles with acne and inflammation. Our favourite is this nourishing scrub which uses skin-smoothing acids and enzymes to boost cell turnover without over-scrubbing. The thick gel includes pineapple and papaya enzymes which smooth and brighten, while AHAs get rid of any excess surface grime. The fun packaging is a real crowd-pleaser, too.

Available at CultBeauty.com

07

Alpha-H Gentle Daily Exfoliant, £34.50

If you suffer from sensitive skin and find physical exfoliation too much, look to Alpha-H’s award-winning formula. Water-activated fruit enzymes are suspended in this powder to remove dead and damaged skin cells without the abrasive feel. You can also use it to spot treat certain areas, like congested pores, blackheads and uneven pigmentation. It’s also been proven to break down the keratin protein within hair follicles, reducing facial hair density and gradually reducing regrowth, too.

Available at CultBeauty.com

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