Now trending Enzymes Regular exfoliation is non-negotiable in a solid skin care routine, but too much of a good thing can be a problem. We need to find a way to keep the skin polished without causing inflammation and damaging our protective barrier. Along with other environmental assaults and UV exposure, aggressive exfoliation can also produce inflammation that leads to aging. Since skin recovers more slowly past the age of 25, it is important that we discover the right balance of exfoliation to ensure beautiful skin without inflammation and aging. Science has provided us with the answer: ENZYMES.

Enzymes are enjoying some much-deserved buzz, and are quite fascinating when you consider how nature has provided us with such a simple protein that is able to do such an important job. This little power busters help speed up our metabolism and chemical reactions in our bodies. They play significant roles from digestion to increasing metabolism. Skin scientists have also discovered that certain enzymes applied topically have great benefits to skin heath and rejuvenation.

Enzyme Basics: Skincare guide Enzymes are derived from fruits like pineapple, papaya and pumpkin. Just like digestive enzymes in our guts, fruit enzymes are able to break down proteins. They work almost the same way as the enzymes produced in the body that help break down the food we ingest. On the skin, however, they are breaking down old cells that clog up pores and prevent the penetration of other products and by doing so to reveal soft, healthy and glowing skin. Enzyme Applications

Gommage. This method was developed in France and it means "to erase." It combines manual and chemical exfoliation, and it is one of the gentler forms of exfoliation. A gel enzyme is applied and gently rubbed on the skin to activate it. As it activates through manual exfoliation, it erases dead skin along.

Gel-based enzymes are generally from pineapple and papaya (papain) sources. They provide slightly more intense enzyme activity, but are generally tolerated by most skin types depending on what they are combined with during your facial.

Cream-based enzymes from milk proteins provide good exfoliation with the added benefit of hydration from the fat molecules present in the enzyme. Cream enzymes are ideal for sensitive skin and to help reduce the signs of inflammation.

Liquid enzymes will generally include a blend of AHAs and BHAs, and will fall into a more intense range. When in the liquid form, it activates quickly on the skin to lift and turnover dead cells.

Powder blends. These offer a variety of options and can be mixed into other enzyme formulations or activated and used on its own to digest and provide cellular benefits for any skin type. My absolute favourite!

Enzymes @home While some enzymes are only for professional use, there are many formulated for home use. These are excellent to add to your skin care routine to enhance the results of professional facials done at the spa. The following are some common enzymes that pair well with any products you have.

• iS CLINICAL Active Peel System. This two-step peel pad system is designed to provide powerful facial rejuvenation right at your fingertips. A gentle two-step treatment designed to resurface the skin while also providing hydration, rejuvenation, and antioxidant protection.

• QMS Active Exfoliant 11% Resurfacing Fluid has a gentle peeling effect that refines and optimizes the skin for the QMS Day Collagen and Night Collagen, resulting in bright, smooth skin that is full of vitality. Suitable for all skin types however, very sensitive or problematic skin use Active Exfoliant 7%.

• QMS Gentle Exfoliant Lotions are made up of a specially balanced fruit acid complex that has an exfoliating effect, dissolves cornification, and stimulates cell division in the epidermis without irritating the skin.

• Gentle Peeling – BABOR. A mild, cream-based facial exfoliant suitable for all skin types. Its extremely gentle and helps remove superficial dead skin cells and flaky skin.

• DOCTOR BABOR ENZYME PEELING gives the skin an immediately youthful, radiant complexion in just 6 minutes.

October ENZYMES @ The Spa This month we are running an Enzyme focussed promotion: For ONLY R950; 90 minutes of rejuvenation The Two-Step Step 1: The ultimate in conditioning with a full body massage Step 2: A next generation ENZYME peeling facial The Result: an immediately youthful radiant complexion and rejuvenated body!

Find out more at https://www.legacybalance.co.za