What is Papain (Papaya Enzyme)?
Papain is an enzyme found in the latex of the papaya fruit and plant. Enzymes like papain are proteins that break down other proteins, which is why papain is used as a meat tenderiser as well as in skincare.
In skincare, papain is used as an enzyme exfoliant. It digests the protein (keratin) that holds dead skin cells together, so they come away more easily. It is found in masks, peels, scrubs and cleansing powders, usually at low strengths.
Source
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Found in |
Papain (INCI name) |
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Origin |
Plant-derived, from papaya latex |
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Also known as |
Papaya enzyme, papaya protease |
Top features and benefits
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Loosens dead skin cells |
Enzyme-based, not an acid |
Used in masks, peels and cleansing powders |
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Can leave skin feeling smoother |
Often marketed as gentler than acids |
Plant-derived origin |
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Used at low strengths |
Appears in brightening-focused products |
Can be a short-contact treatment |
How Does It Work?
Papain works like a tiny pair of scissors for proteins. Dead skin cells on the surface are held together by protein bonds, and papain cuts those bonds so the cells loosen and rinse away. This can leave skin feeling smoother and looking brighter.
Because it is an enzyme and not an acid, it works at a gentler pH and is often described as an alternative to AHAs. A secondary ingredient database reports a small 2013 trial where 1 percent papain improved texture and brightness over four weeks, though less than glycolic or salicylic acid, but that report has not been independently verified for this page.
The big caution is allergy. A 2015 study in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that papain applied to mouse skin broke down the tight junctions between skin cells and led to allergic reactions, and it stayed allergenic even when its enzyme activity was blocked. The researchers advised that people with sensitive skin and small children should avoid it.