15 Best Enzyme Masks To Get Clear And Glowing Skin
Exfoliate with these gentle yet powerful masks for visibly radiant and youthful skin.
Carlee SpathLicensed Esthetician
Expertise: Acne & Pigmentation Correction, Facial Sculpting, Chemical Peels
Experience: 10 years
Carlee is a Licensed Esthetician with over 10 years of experience and a certified acne specialist with Face Reality. She is the co-founder of The Switch Suites, a luxury skincare wellness center located in Bankers Hill, San Diego. She speci... more
Oyendrila Kanjilal Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 2 years
Oyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience,... more
Shiboli ChakrabortiCertified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 4 years
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce edito... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Scrubbing is an integral part of the skin care regimen. It is not surprising to state that it can affect other skin care procedures. This is where the best enzyme masks play a key role. Not only do they exfoliate your skin and remove dead cells, but they also soothe the skin. Carlee Spath, a Licensed Esthetician says, “Exfoliation with an enzyme mask 2-3 times a week is an integral part of your skin care regimen to superficially remove dead skin cells in order to increase product penetration and to reduce congestion, pigmentation, fine lines and in some cases to reduce irritation on the skin.”
They are even loaded with antioxidants that benefit the skin in multiple ways. If you have sensitive skin or experience rashes whenever you use those chemical-laden scrubs, then enzyme masks can be your best bet. The best part about these masks is they are fruit-based. Check out the 15 enzyme masks in this post and pick one that suits you the best.
In This Article
15 Best Enzyme Masks To Gently Exfoliate Dead Skin
1. Best Cruelty-Free:insta natural Exfoliating Glycolic Face Mask And Face Scrub
Image: Instanatural The insta natural Exfoliating Glycolic Face Mask And Face Scrub helps exfoliate and hydrate your skin. It reduces the appearance of enlarged pores and helps you achieve glowing, smooth, and soft skin. This enzyme mask is for uneven skin tone, as it helps refine and brighten your dull, uneven skin. It contains glycolic acid that boosts cell turnover. Turmeric fights inflammatory aggressors and soothes the skin. Vitamin C enhances collagen production that rehydrates the skin and helps tighten your skin. Aloe vera supports the skin’s natural barrier and nourishes and reveals brighter skin. The brand does not test on animals.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- No synthetic dyes
- SLS-free
- Preservative-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Petroleum-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- TEA-free
- DEA-free
- MEA-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
None
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 3,516 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
2. Best Anti-Aging:Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask
Image: Peter Thomas
Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask rejuvenatesand transforms dull and lifeless skin. This exfoliating pumpkin enzyme peel mask with alpha hydroxy acid and aluminum oxide crystals polishes the skin, evens out the uneven skin tone, gets rid of dirt and impurities, and offers energized and smoother skin. It also has anti-aging properties that help smoothen fine lines and wrinkles to reveal younger, firmer, and revitalized skin. However, alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, which may increase the possibility of sunburn. Use a sunscreen and limit sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterward. Use the mask once a week and leave it on for 3-7 minutes to get astonishing results. Check out this YouTube video for a detailed understanding of the Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask and know more about a skin care reviewer’s experience of using the product.
Pros
- Reduces dullness
- Exfoliates and polishes the skin
- Evens out the skin tone
- Gets rid of dirt and impurities
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Makes the skin firm
Cons
- May increase the risk of sunburn
- Expensive
3. Best Vegan:L&I Apothecary Arista Pumpkin Facial Mild Peel
Image: L&i Apothecary
L&I Apothecary Arista Pumpkin Facial Peel is formulated to replenish and brighten dull and lifeless skin. This enzyme mask’s formula contains pumpkin fruit, glycolic acid, vitamins E and C, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg powder that offer over 100 beneficial nutrients to the skin. This super-active gentle enzyme peel contains 1-3% glycolic acid that deeply exfoliates the skin. It suits all skin types – dry, oily, combination, and sensitive. The hydrating power of this enzyme mask helps reduce the signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. It is vegan, cruelty-free, and fragrance-free. Applying it once a week can help return the glow on your skin and improve its health. It is not tested on animals.
Pros
- l Nourishes the skin
- l Replenishes and brightens the skin
- l Deeply exfoliates the skin
- l Suitable for all skin types
- l Reduces the signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles
- l Imparts a healthy glow to the skin
- l Vegan
- l Cruelty-free
- l Fragrance-free
Cons
- May sting a little
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 984 rave reviews on Amazon.
Best Cruelty-Free | Best Anti-Aging | Best Vegan | |
|---|---|---|---|
| insta natural Exfoliating Glycolic Face Mask And Face Scrub | Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask | L&I Apothecary Arista Pumpkin Facial Mild Peel | |
| Skin Type | Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Dry | Dry |
| Dimensions | 2 x 2.2 x 2.2 inches | 3.9 x 3 x 0.6 inches | - |
| Weight | 2 Ounces. | 9.6 Ounces | - |
| Package Dimensions | - | - | 4.2 x 4.1 x 2.6 inches; 9.59 Ounces |
| Rating* | 4.2 | 4.6 | 4.3 |
| Reviews | 3,516 | 967 | 984 |
| Price | $13.97 | $42 | $24.97 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best Moisturizing:Andalou Naturals Bioactive 8 Berry Fruit Enzyme Mask
Image: Andalou Naturals
Andalou Naturals Bioactive 8 Berry Fruit Enzyme Mask contains Resveratrol Q10, the super antioxidant that supports the skin’s well-being and youthful vitality. Goji berry glycopeptides improve the skin tone and texture. Ultra-hydrating aloe vera moisturizes and nourishes the skin. This enzyme mask can also be used on sensitive and mature skin. It is formulated with Advanced Fruit Stem Cell Science that renews skin at the cellular level and results in visible age-defying results. The antioxidants in it slow down cellular damage and stimulate the skin-firming collagen and elastin. The natural fruit enzymes reveal your skin’s healthy vitality for soft, poreless, and ageless beauty. Leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing to rejuvenate the skin.
Pros
- Restores the skin’s youthful vitality
- Improves skin tone and texture
- Moisturizes and nourishes the skin
- Helps in tightening and firming the skin
- Suitable for sensitive and mature skin
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Tightens the skin
Cons
- Difficult to wash off
5. Best Rejuvenating:ELEMIS Papaya Enzyme Peel
Image: Elemis
ELEMIS Papaya Enzyme Peel is a smooth cream peel that contains an exotic cocktail of natural fruit enzymes from African papaya and far-eastern pineapple. The fruit enzymes in it gently exfoliate, purify, and regenerate tired, dull, dry, and lifeless skin. Extracts of bladder wrack and sunflower remineralize and condition fatigued skin. Porphyridium and vitamin E protect the skin from free radical damage. This exfoliating enzyme mask leaves your skin feeling fresh, soft, clean, and rejuvenated. It is clinically-tested and proven to deliver visible results. For an honest review of Bliss Pumpkin Powerhouse Resurfacing & Exfoliating Enzyme Face Mask , click on this YouTube video to see the tester’s experience of using the product.
Pros
- Spreads easily
- Gently exfoliates the skin
- Reduces dullness
- Moisturizes the skin
- Protects the skin from free radical damage
- Refreshes and rejuvenates the skin
Cons
- Expensive
6. Best Brightening:Bliss Pumpkin Powerhouse Resurfacing & Exfoliating Enzyme Face Mask
Image: Bliss
Bliss Pumpkin Powerhouse Resurfacing & exfoliating Enzyme Face Mask is a whipped exfoliating facial mask formulated to refine and brighten the skin for a bright and luminous complexion. Pumpkin enzymes and AHAs remove dead and dull skin, promote new cell growth, and minimize fine lines and discoloration. Sodium hyaluronate binds moisture to your skin and makes it look plump and youthful. The nutrient-rich shea butter softens and promotes skin elasticity. Prebiotics protect the skin against free radicals. You will achieve restored, radiant, and renewed skin after using this mask. It is 100% cruelty-free and free from toxins like parabens, phthalates, SLS, and SLES. Before purchasing, you can take a look at this YouTube video for a detailed review. No animal testing has been conducted on this product.
Pros
- Refines the skin texture
- Brightens the complexion
- Removes dead skin cells
- Promotes new cell growth
- Minimizes fine lines and discoloration
- Makes the skin look plump and youthful
- Softens the skin
- Protects the skin from free radical damage
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- SLS-free
- SLES-free
Cons
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has received 1,089 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.
7. Best For Even Skin Tone:Mario Badescu Enzyme Revitalizing Mask
Image: Mario Badescu
Mario Badescu Enzyme Revitalizing Mask contains alpha hydroxy acid, papaya enzymes, and grapefruit extracts that exfoliate dry and dead skin. Antioxidants and vitamins A and E give your skin a flawless and glowing appearance. This enzyme mask has a non-drying and moisturizing formula. Its skin-perfecting formula evens out the skin tone and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It delivers visible results. Check out the review of CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanserfor more information.
Pros
- Exfoliates dry and dead skin
- Imparts a flawless glow
- Moisturizes the skin
- Evens out the skin tone
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Cons
None
Quick Tip8. Best Gentle Formula:COSMEDIX Pure Enzymes Cranberry Exfoliating Mask
Image: Cosmedix
COSMEDIX Pure Enzymes Cranberry Exfoliating Mask polishes dull skin. It is formulated with the nourishing combination of cranberry enzymes and lactic acid. This gentle exfoliating mask leaves your skin feeling extremely soft, supple, and plump. The moisturizing gluconic acid attracts and retains moisture in the skin. Pure enzymes also help protect the skin from environmental stressors. The Chirally Correct L-Lactic Acid and Cranberry Enzymes exfoliate the dull surface cells and pore-clogging impurities. This enzyme mask is free of harsh chemicals and skin irritants like fragrances.
Pros
- Reduces dullness
- Unclogs pores
- Gentle formula
- Makes skin soft, supple, and plump
- Moisturizes the skin
- Protects the skin from environmental stressors
- Free of harsh chemicals
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Expensive
9. Best Hydrating:Osmosis Skincare Cranberry Enzyme Mask
Image: Osmosis
Osmosis Skincare Cranberry Enzyme Mask is an anti-aging firming mask. It hydrates, soothes, and tightens mature skin. The aloe vera in it hydrates and speeds up cell renewal by up to 8 times. This cranberry enzyme and L-Lactic acid firming mask gently exfoliates and removes dead skin and damaged cells. This mask is infused with antioxidants that protect and polish the skin and leaves it feeling firm and smooth with a healthy glow. It moisturizes and protects the skin from UV rays. It is suitable for all skin types.
Pros
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Hydrates the skin
- Soothes and tightens mature skin
- Protects the skin from sun damage
- Smoothens the skin
- Imparts a healthy glow
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Expensive
10. Best Organic:Glimmer Goddess Organic Papaya & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask
Image: Srb Skin Care
Glimmer Goddess Organic Papaya & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask gently exfoliates, brightens, and improves the texture and elasticity of facial skin. It also helps reduce breakouts and blackheads. This enzyme mask for texture improvement, smoothens your skin, evens out the skin tone, reduces discoloration, and decreases fine lines and wrinkles on mature skin. It also reduces inflammation and soothes the skin. It has a natural lifting effect and is suitable for sensitive skin. It is free of chemicals, fragrances, and toxins. The brand does not test on animals.
Pros
- 89% organic natural ingredients
- Exfoliates the skin
- Brightens the skin
- Improves skin texture and elasticity
- Smoothens the skin
- Evens out the skin tone
- Reduces discoloration
- Decreases fine lines and wrinkles
- Reduces inflammation
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Free of chemicals, fragrances, and toxins
- Reasonably priced
Cons
None
11. Best Overnight Treatment: Alba Botanica Hawaiian Facial Mask
Image: Alba Botanica The Alba Botanica Papaya Enzyme Hawaiian Facial Cleanser is the perfect choice for those looking to deeply cleanse and purify their skin. This gentle yet effective overnight mask contains papaya enzyme, which helps to break down dirt, oil, and makeup while still being kind enough not to strip your skin of its natural oils. The other fruit extracts soothe irritation while leaving your face feeling refreshed and deeply hydrated after each use. It is not tested on animals.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Cost-effective
- Reduces dullness
- Provide deep hydration and moisturization
- Paraben-free
Cons
None
12. Best Reasonably Priced:go Pure Enzyme Masque
Image: Gopure
go Pure Enzyme Masque is formulated with natural pumpkin and papaya enzymes that combat dull skin. Glycolic acid exfoliates the dead skin cells. Rose hip oil and jojoba oil provide skin soothing and additional hydration benefits. This reasonably priced enzyme mask is formulated with enzymes and antioxidants that help provide a smoother-looking complexion, dissolve the impurities, and improve the look of dull skin. Cocoa butter and shea butter provide deep hydration and moisturization. Leave this mask on for 5-10 minutes and remove with it a damp cloth to reveal glowing and flawless skin. The brand does not test on animals.
Pros
- Exfoliates the dead skin
- Soothes and additional hydrates the skin
- Reduces dullness
- Provide deep hydration and moisturization
- Paraben-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Propylene glycol-free
- SLS-free
- Dye-free
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- None
13. Best Non-GMO:Andalou Naturals Kombucha Enzyme Exfoliating Mask
Image: Andalou Naturals Exfoliate dry and dull surface skin cells with the Andalou Naturals Kombucha Enzyme Exfoliating Mask. This mask is infused with powerful ingredients such as argan stem cells, grapefruit kombucha, pineapple, and papaya enzymes that slough off the skin’s impurities to prevent breakouts, keep it hydrated, and smoothens the surface for a spotless appearance. The willow bark in the formula boosts circulation for a rosy complexion, while vitamin C renews skin cells for a youthful tone. Moreover, aloe vera soothes the skin and protects its barrier from pollutants. The product is not tested on animals.
Pros
- Refreshes skin
- Prevents acne and pimples
- Boosts cell renewal for a youthful glow
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Non-GMO
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- Sensitive skin may experience redness
14. Best Hydroquinone-Free:Aloette Aloepure Restorative Enzyme Peel
Image: Aloette Aloette Aloepure Restorative Enzyme Peel removes dead skin cells and hydrates the skin, making it soft with a healthy glow. It is a natural mask with pineapple, papaya, grapefruit, and cucumber fruit enzymes that exfoliate the skin and remove impurities to restore a hydrated and radiant complexion. It also contains Aloeganic aloe vera that smooths and softens the skin. This cruelty-free chemical face peel is suitable to be used once a week for all skin types.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Sulfate-free
- Hydroquinone-free
Cons
- Expensive
15. Best Lightweight:Image Vital C Hydrating Enzyme
Image: Image Skincare Remove dull skin and rejuvenate it through a moisture boost with the Image Vital C Hydrating Enzyme. This mask has fruit enzymes that gently exfoliate your skin, making it nourished, healthier, and radiant. It also has two types of Vitamin C to remove dead skin cells, prompt collagen production, and minimize blemishes for a clarified skin. Moreover hyaluronic acid and vitamin E work together to protect and retain moisture for a plump skin tone. It is formulated without animal testing.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Clarifies skin for a radiant glow
- Anti-aging benefits
- Hydrates your skin
- Smooths the skin
- Clinically-tested
- Cruelty-free
- Gentle on skin
Cons
None
Face masks come in various types and is packed with good ingredients to serve different solutions for the skin, even for concerns like deep pore cleansing. Enzymes masks have gained immense popularity because they work on the surface level of the skin by removing dead skin cells and revealing glowing skin. Check out this buying guide to know the best enzyme face mask for your skin.
How To Choose The Best Enzyme Masks For Clear and Glowing Skin
- Skin Type
Always take your skin type into account while buying an enzyme mask. If you have oily skin, choose face masks with cleansing and purifying properties. For dry skin, hydrating masks are ideal as they can moisturize and rejuvenate the skin. If you have acne-prone skin, then go with face masks that have salicylic acid as an active ingredient. For combination skin type, opt for resurfacing masks that balance the oil in your pores and help you achieve hydrated healthier skin.
- Ingredients
Although enzyme face masks are made with 80% natural and clean ingredients, some can offer extra benefits over other ingredients. These ingredients are glycolic acid, aloe vera, vitamin A, glycerin, fruits extract, vitamin C, pumpkin fruit, vitamin E, cinnamon, ginger, etc. These ingredients have anti-aging and moisturizing properties. They help remove all the impurities from your skin to give a refreshed tone. Avoid using face masks that include paraben, phthalates, SLS, SLES, mineral oils, TEA, DEA, MEA, petroleum, formaldehyde, and other harmful chemicals. You can look for scientifically formulated and clinically backed skincare.
- Skin Concerns
Consider your skin concern and what you want to address with the enzyme face mask. For instance, if you want glowing skin, go with face masks rich in natural fruit enzymes. On the other hand, If you have dark spots or pigmentation, go with face masks that include antioxidant properties and ingredients that block melanin production in the skin. Finally, if you have redness-prone skin, then go with face masks that have soothing and anti-inflammatory ingredients. You can look for dermatologically tested products that are great for exfoliating dead skin or clogged pores on the face.
- Mask Type
Different enzyme masks are available in gel, clay-based, and creamy textures. Choose one as per your preference and skin type. For instance, you can opt for a clay-based enzyme facial mask if you have oily skin. However, if you have dry skin, go for gel masks.
What Are Enzyme Masks Actually?
Enzyme masks are fruit-based peel-off or wash-off masks that are made of 80% natural ingredients. They act as chemical exfoliants. Thus, you do not have to rub them into your skin to scrub off impurities. They are not as harsh as chemical exfoliants. They are gentle and can be used on sensitive skin.
Check out the benefits of enzyme masks in the next section.
Benefits Of Using An Enzyme Mask
- Gets rid of the dead skin layer on the surface of your skin
- Removes impurities
- Removes acne-causing bacteria
- Hydrates dry patches
- Brightens the skin
- Evens out the skin tone
- Makes the skin glow
- Makes the skin soft and supple
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Plumps up the skin
- Treats uneven texture
- Makes the skin look youthful and radiant
- Removes blackheads and clears congested pores
Are There Any Side Effects Of Using An Enzyme Mask?
If you have very sensitive skin, you may experience redness and swelling. Also, avoid applying an enzyme mask on cuts, burns, or acne pustules. It may aggravate the pain and inflammation.
Enzyme masks have proven efficacy as a skin care product as they are great for exfoliating the dead skin on the face and revealing flawless, glowing skin. They do not contain salicylic acid or beta hydroxy acid and are, therefore, gentle on the skin. However, they are more potent than a sheet mask. Use an enzyme mask once a week or two weeks, and you will start to feel and see the difference. Get one of the enzyme masks listed above and flaunt your good skin!
Infographic: Things To Consider Before Choosing The Best Enzyme Mask
Enzyme masks can help you achieve clean, clear, and rejuvenated skin effortlessly. But before investing in one, it is crucial to know the skin type it is best suited for and having insights into the ingredients they come with. Keep scrolling through to check out the infographic to learn more about the key ingredients and things to consider before buying an enzyme mask. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
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Download Infographic
When it comes to skincare, scrubbing is an essential part of your routine, and you cannot skip out on this step. The best enzyme mask effectively exfoliates your skin to get rid of all the dead skin cells and soothe multiple skin concerns. Enzyme masks are especially beneficial for those who have sensitive or hypersensitive skin as they are loaded with antioxidant benefits. The insta natural Exfoliating Glycolic Face Mask And Face Scrub is ideal to revive dull and dehydrated skin, while the Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask is suitable for smoothing fine lines and reducing the appearance of pores on mature skin. The L&I Apothecary Arista Pumpkin Facial Mild Peel is a fragrance-free formula best suited for sensitive and dry skin types. These affordable masks are enriched with natural ingredients, are free from harsh chemicals, and work on all skin types. In addition, they reduce the visible signs of aging and flaky patches and impart a healthy glow.
Why Trust Stylecraze?
Oyendrila Kanjilal is a certified skin care coach whose passion lies in writing well-researched beauty content for her readers. She advocates the importance of using enzyme masks as they ensure healthy and glowing skin. She curated this list after reading the product specifications and analyzing the user feedback available in various online platforms. The masks mentioned in this article offer gentle exfoliation and leave your skin feeling nourished.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are enzyme masks good for acne?
Yes, enzyme masks can be great for acne as they gently exfoliate the surface layer and reduce inflammation, especially for those just stepping into the skin care world and have not incorporated acids into their regimen. However, do not use the mask on active acne as it may cause irritation.
What should I expect after an enzyme peel?
You can expect your first enzyme peel to be a little tingly but it gets better with time. Your skin will appear clearer and feel soft after an enzyme peel. The appearance of congestion will be reduced, texture will be smoothed out, pigmentation will be a little lighter and any inflammation should be calmed down a little.
How often should you do an enzyme peel?
Initially, use it just once a week. Use it one to two times a week after a few uses. Consult your dermatologist to customize it for your skincare routine.
Is an enzyme peel a chemical peel?
No, an enzyme peel is not a chemical peel. Enzyme peels are gentler and more skin-friendly because they only use enzymes from fruits such as pineapples, pumpkins, papaya, and pomegranate.
Can I use retinol after an enzyme peel?
No, it is not recommended to use retinol after an enzyme peel. Especially, people with sensitive skin should avoid combining retinol with an enzyme peel as it might irritate the skin more.
How long does it take to see results from an enzyme peel?
You can witness visible results within a week after adding enzyme peels to your skin care regime. In some cases, it might also take up to two to three weeks for any significant changes to show.
What do you do after using an enzyme mask?
All exfoliating treatments should be done during your evening routine. After the enzyme mask removal, you can continue your at home treatment with another calming or cooling mask and add a little cryo massage. When you are finished with your masks, complete your regimen with any antioxidant or hydrating serum and a repairing overnight cream.
Can you wear makeup after an enzyme peel?
It is better not to use makeup after an enzyme peel. Some experts suggest not to wear makeup for a week after using an enzyme peel.
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