Benefits Of Exfoliating: Guide to Professional Enzyme Exfoliants

Exfoliation is a vital part of any skin care routine, and when done right, it can make a world of difference for your clients’ skin. At Eminence Organic Skin Care, we’re excited to introduce our Superfood Enzyme Collection — three professional-grade exfoliants designed to gently yet effectively refresh and renew the look of the skin. These enzyme-based treatments are perfect for all skin types, offering a natural way to reveal a brighter, more radiant complexion. Whether your clients are looking to combat signs of aging, tackle dryness, balance excess oil or even out their skin tone, our enzymatic exfoliants provide a soothing, irritation-free solution that delivers real, visible results.

What Is Enzymatic Exfoliation?

As a spa professional, you know that the right exfoliation can transform a client’s skin. Enzymes, which are natural proteins derived from sources like pineapple and cherry, work by breaking down the bonds (keratin) between dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, leaving the skin looking smoother, brighter and more even. This makes them particularly well-suited for clients with sensitive or reactive skin.

For professionals, the real advantage of enzymatic exfoliation lies in its gentle effectiveness across multiple skin concerns. Whether your clients are dealing with aging skin, dryness, excess oil or hyperpigmentation, enzyme exfoliants can be customized to meet their specific needs.

When comparing the difference between acids and enzymes, acids break down both skin cells and the chemical bonds holding them together, which removes dead cells from the outer layers while also encouraging deeper skin layers to regenerate. Enzymes, in contrast, break down the bonds (specifically keratin) between dead cells on the surface, making it easier for these dead cells to be gently sloughed off without affecting the deeper skin layers.

Here’s an overview of the differences:

Acids

• Acids penetrate more deeply than enzymes.
• Acids dissolve the bonds holding dead skin cells together on the surface and can penetrate deeper layers as well.
• Cellular turnover and renewal is promoted.

Enzymes

• Enzymes target the bonds between dead skin cells (corneocytes) on the skin’s surface, helping to gently break them down and remove these cells.
• Unlike acids, enzymes work specifically on surface proteins, leaving deeper layers of the skin untouched and preventing irritation or damage.
• This gentle exfoliation process suits all skin types, especially sensitive skin, as it promotes smoother, healthier skin without causing redness or downtime.  

This collection also includes the Barbados Cherry Enzyme Cleansing Powder and Mango Exfoliating Enzyme Masque, which are available for both professional back bar use and home care. Now, let’s dive into the details of each professional exfoliant and how they can benefit your clients.

Pineapple Nourishing Pro Enzyme Exfoliant

This enzymatic exfoliant is formulated with pineapple extract, known for its ability to help gently exfoliate the skin while providing hydration. The creamy texture is suitable for all skin types, particularly normal to dry skin. It is designed to improve the appearance of a dull complexion by smoothing and hydrating the look of the skin. Regular use may help brighten the skin’s appearance and create a more even-looking skin tone.

• Intended For: All skin types, especially normal to dry.
• Primary Concerns Addressed: Dehydration, dull complexion.
• Key Benefits: Helps smooth and hydrate the skin, supporting a brighter and more tightened appearance.

Amla Berry Oil Control Pro Enzyme Exfoliant

This exfoliant is formulated with amla berry extract, which is traditionally recognized for its ability to help refine the skin’s texture. It is designed to reduce excess oil and improve the appearance of large pores. The lightweight texture is particularly beneficial for oily to combination skin types. When used regularly, it may help decrease the appearance of shine and visibly minimize the look of pores.

• Intended For: All skin types, particularly oily to combination.
• Primary Concerns Addressed: Excess oil, large pores, dull complexion.
• Key Benefits: Helps control oil production and reduce the appearance of large pores, leaving the skin with a more balanced and refined look.

Barbados Cherry Superfood Pro Enzyme Exfoliant

This exfoliant uses Barbados cherry extract, known for its antioxidant properties, to help revitalize the skin. It provides a warming sensation that enhances the experience and leaves the complexion looking youthful and refreshed. Suitable for all skin types, this treatment is particularly beneficial for those with concerns about aging or dull skin. With regular use, it may help the skin appear plumper and firmer.

• Intended For: All skin types.
• Primary Concerns Addressed: Signs of aging, dull complexion.
• Key Benefits: Helps to plump and tighten the look of the skin, contributing to a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Yam & Pumpkin Pro Enzyme Peel 20%

This enzymatic peel includes yam and pumpkin extracts, which are rich in vitamins and enzymes known for their ability to accelerate the exfoliation process. The formula is designed to gently remove dead skin cells and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Its natural enzyme content leaves the skin appearing firm and radiant, making it suitable for all skin types, particularly those concerned with signs of aging.

• Intended For: All skin types, especially those concerned with aging signs.
• Primary Concerns Addressed: Signs of aging, fine lines.
• Key Benefits: Helps smooth and firm the look of the skin, reducing the appearance of dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles.

Arctic Berry Enzyme Exfoliant

The Arctic Berry Enzyme Exfoliant contains a unique blend of Arctic plants and berries, including cloudberry, arctic roseroot, arctic meadowsweet and juniper. These antioxidant-rich ingredients help to gently exfoliate the skin while preventing visible signs of aging. The inclusion of lingonberry seed oil provides essential vitamins, minerals and omega 3 fatty acids, which help to replenish the skin’s moisture and restore the appearance of elasticity. The Arctic Berry Enzyme Exfoliant leaves the skin feeling refreshed, revitalized and prepared to receive further treatments.

• Intended For: All skin types, particularly those concerned with aging and uneven texture.
• Primary Concerns Addressed: Aging signs, uneven skin texture, dryness.
• Key Benefits: Gently exfoliates, improves skin texture and clarity, enhances hydration and reduces the visible signs of aging.

How Do I Choose The Right Exfoliant for My Clients?

Skin Type and Concern

Match the exfoliant to your client’s skin type and primary concern. For instance, use amla berry for a client with oily, breakout-prone skin or Barbados Cherry for those looking to address signs of aging.

Texture

Consider the texture preferences of your clients. Some may prefer the creamy, luxurious feel of a product like Pineapple Nourishing Pro Enzyme Exfoliant, while others might benefit from the lighter texture of Amla Berry Oil Control Pro Enzyme Exfoliant.

Sensory Experience

Some clients may be sensitive to sensation during exfoliation. Educate them on what to expect and select the skin care product that will provide the most comfortable experience while still delivering results.

Choosing By Enzyme Type & Skin Concern

With a clear understanding of the benefits of each exfoliating product, the next step is to be able to differentiate each exfoliant by its enzyme type and aligning it with specific skin concerns. Later, we’ll explain how to choose an exfoliant based on the sensory experience and texture. 

For Wrinkles & Fine Lines

Pineapple Nourishing Pro Enzyme Exfoliant

• Primary Enzyme: Protease enzyme
• Ideal For: All skin types, especially those concerned with signs of aging.
• Benefits: Protease enzymes work by gently breaking down dead skin cells, helping to plump and tighten the skin. This exfoliant is particularly effective for clients looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines and dullness, as it leaves the skin looking youthful and refreshed.
• Other Ingredients: Barbados cherry, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, helps to brighten the complexion and protect the skin from environmental stressors. This makes it an excellent choice for those wanting to address signs of aging and improve overall skin texture.

For Excess Oil & Large Pores

Amla Berry Oil Control Pro Enzyme Exfoliant:

• Primary Enzyme: Lipase enzyme
• Ideal For: Oily to combination skin types.
• Benefits: Lipase, which is derived from plant sugars, helps to break down oils on the surface if the skin. It’s especially useful for people with oily or combination skin. 
• Other Ingredients: Amla berry’s powerful antioxidant properties help to control the look of excess oil and minimize the look of large pores, making it an ideal ingredient for clients prone to breakouts or dealing with congestion. It effectively reduces excess sebum, leaving the skin clearer and more balanced-looking.

For Dull Skin 

Barbados Cherry Superfood Pro Enzyme Exfoliant

• Primary Enzyme: Protease enzyme
• Ideal For: All skin types, especially those concerned with signs of aging.
• Benefits: Protease enzymes work by gently breaking down dead skin cells, helping to plump and tighten the look of the skin. This exfoliant is particularly effective for clients looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines and dullness, as it leaves the skin looking youthful and refreshed.
• Other Ingredients: Barbados cherry, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, helps to brighten the complexion and protect the skin from environmental stressors. This makes it an excellent choice for those wanting to address signs of aging and improve overall skin texture.

Choosing By Exfoliation Sensation

One of the most important aspects of providing an effective exfoliation treatment is managing your client’s expectations about the sensations they might experience. While enzyme exfoliants are generally gentle, different clients may have varying responses based on their skin’s condition and sensitivity. Eminence Organics enzyme exfoliants are designed to be gentle, but it’s important to understand that sensation can vary.

Here’s what to consider:

Slight to Mild Sensation

Most clients will experience a slight tingling or warming sensation, especially if they have sensitive skin or if it’s their first time using enzyme exfoliants. This is a normal reaction as the enzymes begin to break down the dead skin cells on the surface.

Medium to Strong Sensation

In cases where the client’s skin is compromised — such as an impaired barrier, recent high level of sun exposure or the presence of inflammation — there may be a stronger sensation. It’s important to assess the skin’s condition before application and adjust the treatment accordingly.

Factors Influencing Sensation

The level of sensation a client feels during an enzymatic exfoliation can be influenced by several factors:

• Skin Barrier Health: If the client’s skin barrier is compromised, they may experience a more intense sensation. This is common in clients with conditions like eczema or rosacea, where the barrier is weakened.
• Lipid Levels: A lower lipid level in the skin can lead to increased sensitivity. Clients with dry or dehydrated skin might feel more sensation during the treatment.
• Allergens and Inflammation: If there are underlying allergens or inflammation present, the skin may react more strongly to the exfoliant. It’s essential to review the client’s skin care history and perform a patch test if necessary.

How to Set Client Expectations

Before beginning the treatment, it’s crucial to communicate with your client about what they might feel. Educate them that a mild tingling sensation is typical and that it indicates the product is working. However, assure them that if the sensation becomes uncomfortable at any point, they should inform you immediately so you can adjust the treatment. 

Professional Mixology: Customizing Exfoliation Treatments

One of the most powerful tools in your arsenal as a spa professional is the ability to customize skin care treatments to meet the specific needs of each client. Eminence Organics enzyme exfoliants are formulated with organic ingredients to be gentle and compatible, allowing you to mix different products without the risk of irritation or adverse reactions. 

Here are some ways you can create custom blends:

Mixing For Targeting Multiple Concerns

For clients with more than one skin concern, consider combining exfoliants that address each issue. For example, mixing the Barbados Cherry Superfood Pro Enzyme Exfoliant with the Pineapple Nourishing Pro Enzyme Exfoliant can provide both brightening and firming benefits.

Combining For Texture and Experience

Different clients may have preferences for the texture of the products used on their skin. You can customize the sensory experience by blending different exfoliants to achieve the desired consistency and feel. For example, if a client prefers a richer, more nourishing texture, combine the Amla Berry Oil Control Pro Enzyme Exfoliant with a small amount of Pineapple Nourishing Pro Enzyme Exfoliant.

Layering for Intensity

If a client’s skin can tolerate a more intensive treatment, you might choose to layer two enzyme exfoliants. Start with a more potent formula like the Amla Berry Oil Control Pro Enzyme Exfoliant to target oil control, followed by the Barbados Cherry Superfood Pro Enzyme Exfoliant for brightening and tightening. This approach can maximize the results while still being gentle on the skin.

Application Tips

• Patch Testing: Always perform a patch test when mixing exfoliants to ensure the client’s skin responds well to the combination.
• Timing: When layering products, allow the first exfoliant to work on the skin for a few minutes before applying the second one. This helps each product to penetrate effectively and reduces the risk of over-exfoliation.
• Client Communication: Explain the benefits of the customized blend to your client. This not only enhances their treatment experience but also builds trust in your expertise.

Are you interested in expanding your spa’s service menu with these treatments? Share your experiences in the comments below and join the conversation on social media. You can also find out how to become an Eminence Organics Spa Partner here.