withSimplicity | August 28, 2023
NATURAL EXFOLIANTS:
ALL ABOUT BROMELAIN + FRUIT ENZYMES
More than just a tropical favorite, pineapple and pineapple extract are powerful players in natural skincare for their exfoliating properties.
When switching to a natural skincare routine, the last thing you want to do is add a strong chemical exfoliant. Luckily, a lot of popular exfolaints can be found right in nature.. like pineapples!
Let's explore how fruit enzymes, specifically bromelain, work to remove dead skin cells and a reveal a healthier, more radiant complexion without any harmful side effects.
What are fruit enzymes and how are they used in skincare?
Fruit enzymes, often referred to as fruit-derived enzymes, are natural proteins found in various fruits. These enzymes possess unique properties that make them beneficial for skincare. They're used in the realm of skincare due to their ability to offer gentle exfoliation, promote cell turnover, and provide a range of skin-enhancing effects.
In skincare, fruit enzymes primarily function as exfoliants, helping to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This exfoliation process is essential for maintaining healthy and radiant skin, as the accumulation of dead skin cells can lead to a dull complexion, clogged pores, and a lack of product absorption.
Popular Fruit Enzymes Used in Natural Skincare
The most common fruit enzymes used in skincare include:
- Papain (Papaya Enzyme)
- Bromelain (Pineapple Enzyme)
- Pumpkin Enzyme
- Papaya Enzyme
- Kiwi Enzyme
What is bromelain?
Bromelain is a mixture of enzymes found in pineapples (Ananas comosus). It's a natural extract derived from the stem, fruit, and juice of the pineapple plant. It's renowned for its wide range of health benefits, including its applications in skincare, digestion, and anti-inflammatory treatments.
In the skincare realm, bromalin is used to gently remove dead skin cells and soothe redness and inflammation.
How is Bromelain Extracted?
The bromelain harvesting process begins with the harvesting of mature pineapples, which are then cleaned and peeled to remove the outer skin. The pineapple flesh is crushed or grated to create a pulp, which is subsequently juiced or blended to extract the liquid content. This extracted liquid undergoes filtration to remove solid particles and is then purified using methods such as centrifugation or heat treatment to isolate the bromelain enzymes from other components. After purification, the liquid is concentrated and dried to produce a powdered form of bromelain.
The resulting bromelain extract contains a mixture of proteolytic enzymes, which means they have the ability to break down proteins into smaller molecules (aka, breaking down and removing your dead skin cells).
