What Exactly are Peels and Enzymes?

Peels and enzymes – well peels in particular – can sound a bit scary if you don’t know what they are and how they work. What exactly are they and what do they do for our skin? In short, peels and enzymes are exfoliators and can help turn back the signs of aging.

Both improve the skin texture and irregularities by digesting dead cells. Enzymes are proteins that digest cells at the stratum corneum layer, peel formulas (which can include a variety of acids) reach deeper and are effective for improving:

• Fine lines and wrinkles caused by aging and environmental factors
• Certain types of acne
• The appearance of spots, discoloration and mild scarring
• Dull texture and tone

The formulas

Not all peel and enzyme formulas are created equal. If you’re in the market for a peel or enzyme treatment, try to look for aestheticians who utilize formulas specifically created for men’s skin. That’s not to say other treatments won’t be effective, but ingredients like sake rice wine work well with men’s skin. This is because it yields low-molecular peptides, which work to protect the skin. It’s also a naturally derived antioxidant, and provides hydration, and smoothing and soothing properties, while detoxifying and regenerating skin cells.

As for enzymes, pepsin and papain (from pineapples) work well for men’s skin. These essentially break down layers of dead skin cells to uncover more youthful skin, as well as increase the blood supply to skin cells to tone and firm.

If it’s your first time getting a peel, keep in mind you can go as progressive or as mild as you’re comfortable with. You will experience a tingling sensation and depending upon how many layers are applied, you may feel a bit of heat. Enzymes also produce a tingling sensation, but it may not be as intense. Either way, both will help turn back the hands of time…at least for your skin.