Enzymatic Reactions and the Skin

by Danna Finnerand

Enzymes are an essential part of our bodies and their everyday functions by working as catalysts to regulate the rate at which metabolic reactions occur. Enzymes separate large molecules into smaller ones so that our bodies can handle them. 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 chain reaction, our metabolism would be too slow and too useless to sustain life. Enzymes are also useful in industrial applications ranging from food processing to paper production. They are used in the brewing of beer, in fruit juices, as meat tenderizers and even in the biofuel industry among many more.

ENZYMES AND DESQUAMATION

Fresh cells are produce in the skin's deeper layer, the dermis. As they mature, these cells travel to the epidermis and stratum corneum, and the bonds that hold the skin cells together become weaker. This is what we call desquamation. Enzymes in our skin and hair follicles catalyze this natural process and the skin cells slough off.

As we age, the desquamation process becomes uneven, producing a rough, patchy and unhealthy looking skin surface. For this reason, exfoliation, mechanical or chemical, is vital so that we can eliminate dead skin cells and reveal 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 sugar or oatmeal. It is important to note that excessive abrasion can produce. Therefore, don't be too harsh on your skin.

Chemical exfoliation, on the other hand, relies heavily on acids and enzymes to exfoliate the skin. Some experts say that the alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs used for chemical exfoliation differ from mechanical exfoliation by normalizing cell turnover in the epidermis. If this is true, this process helps trigger the formation of healthy skin, which includes desquamation, less dry scales and the stimulation of the cell cycle.

The enzymes used for 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. In essence, they decompose proteins and produce a softening effect that promotes de natural desquamation process.

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

A new skin care treatment can help you eliminate all kinds of scars, imperfections and skin conditions, ensuring the recovery of the look and functionality of your skin.

Published March 12th, 2008

Filed in Beauty, Health