What are J-Beauty enzyme powders?

Before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s first understand what enzymes do. An enzyme is a catalyst that speeds up chemical reactions in living things, without being altered themselves. There are many different types of enzymes, and human beings naturally produce enzymes to assist processes such as digestion, respiration, and nerve function. In skincare, enzymes break down the keratin proteins that hold dead skin cells together on the surface of the skin. J-Beauty enzyme powders are exfoliating facial cleansers that transform into a foam when mixed with water and applied to wet skin. The enzyme content allows them to buff away dead skin cells and impurities trapped in pores, to reveal smoother, softer skin.

Benefits of J-Beauty enzyme powders

1. They gently exfoliate

J-Beauty enzyme powders are physical and chemical exfoliating substances that have been ground into a fine powder. This allows them to gently slough off dead skin cells and cleanse pores of impurities, without the abrasive effect of traditional scrubs, which can irritate, scratch and tear at the skin. In addition to exfoliants, J-Beauty enzyme powders often contain skin-supporting ingredients that get activated upon contact with water. For example, the KITAO Matcha + Chia Enzyme Powder contains fruit exfoliant papaya extract which not only breaks down dead skin cells but helps to brighten and refine pores as well. The granules of this facial cleanser are also filled with antioxidant-rich matcha, chia seeds, quinoa, and acai berry, which help to curb inflammation and restore elasticity for a youthful glow.

The KITAO Matcha + Chia Enzyme Powder transforms into a dense foam when applied to wet skin. Its gentle granules help buff away dead skin and impurities trapped deep within the pores, while gentle papaya extract brightens and refines.

2. They help unclog pores

Not only do J-Beauty enzyme powders target the surface layer of the skin, leaving it soft and smooth, but they help to break up congested material trapped inside your pores, such as excess sebum and makeup. While enzyme cleansers aren’t meant to replace whatever you use for your makeup remover, they do help to draw out gunk that leads to pimples.

3. They tend to be more sustainable

Enzyme exfoliants found in J-Beauty enzyme powders are often derived from grains, tea, seeds, fruits, and other plants, making them readily degradable in the environment and therefore more sustainable. Think along the lines of azuki beans and rice bran. Traditional exfoliants such as microbeads are made of plastic, which means that they do not decompose easily. From your bathroom sink, they eventually work their way into the ocean where they can endanger and poison aquatic life that accidentally ingest them.

4. They tend to be cleaner

Since J-Beauty enzyme powders lack liquid content altogether, they tend to contain fewer preservatives than cream, gel, and balm cleansers, which generally require preservatives to counteract potential growth of bacteria and mold. In fact, the 100% powder formulation means that enzyme powders are totally concentrated – there’s no water diluting it. Cleaner ingredients make them a gentle yet potent option for reactive, sensitive skin types.

5. They can last a long time

Again, because enzyme powders are dry solids, they can sit on your shelf for a long time without going bad. That said, it would be best to store them in a cool dark place and ensure that they are completely sealed to avoid spoiling from moisture contact.

6. They’re travel friendly

The powder formulation makes J-Beauty enzyme powders an ideal option for frequent flyers and people on the move. You can be sure that they won’t leak in your bag, and you can easily stuff them into your carry-on without the worry of TSA restrictions. How convenient is that?

7. They’re suitable for sensitive skin types

Enzyme powders are suitable for all skin types, but sensitive skin types are most likely to be over the moon since these dehydrated powders are a gentle alternative to traditional abrasive scrubs. Anyone with skin conditions like rosacea and redness are likely to benefit, but also those with chronic acne. Harsh physical exfoliants can aggravate acne and leave the skin more irritated. The foam created by enzyme powders cushions the skin as it withdraws impurities and buffs away dead skin cells. But, not to worry if your skin is anything but sensitive. Enzyme powders are gentle by nature, but there’s a way to customize them to meet any skin type. See below for our best tips!

How and how often should you use J-Beauty enzyme powders?

A good general rule of thumb is to exfoliate once or twice a week. Although J-Beauty enzyme powders are gentle, they’re still powerful exfoliants, so we recommend gradually introducing them into your skincare routine. To activate the powder, pour it onto damp palms and rub it between your hands until it transforms into a foam. Apply it to damp skin, and gently massage in circular motions before rinsing off. Depending on the sensitivity of your skin, you may want to regulate the amount of water you add to the powder. That’s why we say that enzyme powders can work for any skin type – it’s all about the ratio of water to product. For a grittier exfoliation, add less water and work up a rich foam. This creamy dense texture is recommended for oily, normal, and combination skin types. Dry, mature, and sensitive skin types may want to opt for a gentle silky lather, by combining more water and less product.

Though they’re often overlooked, J-Beauty enzyme powders are totally worth the obsession. Simple, effective, and convenient – what more could you ask for?