Enzymes are a vital part of our life and biological function because they work as catalysts to oversee the rate at which metabolic reactions occur. Enzymes separate large molecules into smaller ones so that our bodies can absorb them via our intestines. The digestion of meat and the conversion of starch to sugars with saliva are only two examples of enzymatic processes.

Metabolic pathways are created when enzymes work together. Each enzyme passes its product to another enzyme in a continual process that helps break down the initial product even further. Without this process, the metabolic reactions would be too slow to be of use in our bodies. Another field of application for enzymes is the industrial sector. Such activities like food processing to paper production rely on enzymes. They are also used in meat tenderizers, processed food, beer production and the biofuel industry.

ENZYMES AND DESQUAMATION

Fresh cells are created in the skin's deeper layer, the dermis. As they mature, these cells move towards to the outermost layer of the skin, and the unions between the skin cells breaks apart. This is what we call desquamation. Enzymes in our skin and hair follicles catalyze this natural process and the skin cells slough off.

Age makes the desquamation process slower and uneven which leads to a rough and unhealthy looking skin surface. For this reason, exfoliation, mechanical or chemical, is vital so that we can eliminate dead skin cells and expose the newer, healthier cells underneath.

Mechanical exfoliation uses an external, abrasive element to eliminate dead skin cells. These elements can be a brush or sponge or natural products such as oatmeal or sugar. It is important to note that excessive abrasion can lead to. Therefore, be gentle if you opt for mechanical exfoliation.

Chemical exfoliation, however, relies greatly on acids and enzymes to do its work. Some experts believe that the alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs used for chemical exfoliation are different from because they normalize cell turnover in the epidermis. If this is true, this process helps produce the formation of healthy skin, which includes desquamation, less dry scales and the stimulation of the cell cycle.

The enzymes used in chemical exfoliation include biological enzymes such as Bromelain (which comes from pineapple and can also control cellular inflammation); and Papain (derived from papaya). The job of these enzymes is to stimulat exfoliation by digesting the cohesion between cells chemically. As a result, they decompose proteins and produce a softening effect that helps the skin slough off.

Every skin care routine stresses the importance of periodic exfoliation as a method to keep your skin youthful. With the previous information, it is plain to see that enzymes also have their place in our skin care routine. As we age it becomes ever so important to find skin care products that can help our skin retain its youthful shimmer by eliminating wrinkles, fine lines, opaque and dry skin.