Your skincare routine is like a well-curated team meeting: the right components address issues more efficiently, elegantly, and with fewer side effects. Natural enzymes are these "hidden champions" – they work precisely to remove bothersome residues, protect structure, and maintain system responsiveness. Those living a high-performance lifestyle should also rely on intelligent, evidence-based tools for their skin.

Enzymes are biological catalysts – proteins that accelerate reactions without being consumed themselves. In skincare, we primarily use proteasesprotein-splitting enzymes that dissolve dead skin cells and promote renewal, lysozymeantibacterial enzyme that destabilizes bacterial cell walls, and coenzyme Q10endogenous antioxidant and energy co-factor, important for mitochondria. Proteolytic enzymes like papain "imitate" natural desquamationshedding of dead keratin cells and thus smooth the surface without mechanically irritating the skin barrier. Antibacterial enzymes address the microbial balance, which is key in acne. Antioxidant co-factors like CoQ10 stabilize cellular energy production and capture free radicals – particularly relevant during UV exposure and stress. For high performers, this means a clearer texture, a more robust barrier, and fewer oxidative residues that hinder regeneration and radiance.

Regular enzymatic exfoliation with papain can harmonize cell turnover and visibly smooth skin structure without the mechanical irritation of some scrubs – an assessment supported by a literature review, although robust clinical data still need to be expanded ^[1]. Proteases can also reduce signs of photoaging: In cell and animal models, a proteolytic enzyme (Arazyme) reduced UVB-induced collagen degradation signals and promoted collagen synthesis – an indication of wrinkle prevention and barrier strengthening ^[2]. For acne-prone skin, lysozyme provides a rational solution: it enhances combination antimicrobial strategies against Cutibacterium (Propionibacterium) acnes, even in biofilms, and showed no cytotoxicity in relevant skin cell lines ^[3]. Coenzyme Q10 targets the oxidative aspect of skin aging: topically, it can increase antioxidant capacity, mitigate UV-induced cellular damage, and clinically reduce wrinkle depth ^[4]; advanced formulations improve its stability and skin penetration, demonstrating photoprotective effects in fibroblast test systems as well as anti-aging effects in vivo ^{[5] [6]}.

A recent review on proteolytic enzymes in cosmetics summarizes the currently limited but promising evidence: papain, bromelain, and microbial proteases can mimic desquamation, smooth the skin, and must be carefully formulated regarding pH, temperature, and stabilization to ensure activity and compatibility ^[1]. Additionally, a laboratory study with Arazyme demonstrated that UVB- and oxidative-induced aging signals in keratinocytes and fibroblasts were dampened: the expression of collagen-degrading metalloproteinases decreased, procollagen increased, and pro-inflammatory signaling pathways such as ERK, JNK, and NF-κB were inhibited – a plausible mechanism for wrinkle-reducing effects with consistent topical application ^[2]. For coenzyme Q10, a systematic review over the past decade shows that topical formulations can increase CoQ10 levels in the stratum corneum and deeper skin layers and clinically reduce wrinkle depth by normalizing energy homeostasis and antioxidant defense ^[4]. Given that CoQ10 is hydrophobic and light-sensitive, research is focusing on sophisticated carrier systems: nanoparticles based on chitosan-rosemary acid with hyaluronic acid coating improved bioavailability and reduced reactive oxygen species, IL-6, and MMP-1 in UV-irradiated fibroblasts ^[5]; protransfersome emulsions increased collagen density and the number of fibroblasts in a UV mouse model without irritation – a signal for better stability and efficacy in practice ^[6]. Finally, research on acne therapy suggests that lysozyme significantly enhances the activity of antimicrobial peptides against C. acnes, even in biofilms, with good cell compatibility – relevant for cleaner pores and fewer outbreaks ^[3].

- Strategically dose papain: use an enzyme peel with papain 1–3 evenings per week, optimized for pH (about 5–6) and without coarse scrubs. Rinse after 5–10 minutes, then apply a light moisturizer. Goal: smoother texture and fewer keratinizations, especially for dull, stressed skin ^[1].
- Combine proteases purposefully: integrate products with gentle proteases (e.g., papain or microbial proteases) into the evening routine to promote cell turnover and reduce signs of wrinkles. For sensitive skin, gradually increase frequency and always pair with barrier protection (ceramides) ^[2].
- Use lysozyme against breakouts: employ a cleanser or spot product with lysozyme in the morning or after workouts. Apply in combination skin areas to regulate C. acnes and address biofilm structures without drying the skin ^[3].
- Use coenzyme Q10 daily: apply a serum or emulsion with stable CoQ10 (ideally in nano/transfersome systems) in the morning under SPF and in the evening under cream. This boosts antioxidant defense, reduces UV-induced damage, and supports cellular energy production ^{[4] [5] [6]}.
- Stacking for high performers: a combination of enzyme exfoliation (2–3×/week), daily CoQ10, mild cleansing with lysozyme, and consistent sun protection. Result: clear surface, less oxidative stress, better collagen economy – visible radiance with high everyday tolerance.

Natural enzymes work quietly but effectively: they smooth, protect, and keep the skin functioning optimally. Start with a papain peel twice a week, add daily CoQ10, and rely on lysozyme for impurities – always with sun protection. This way, you invest just a few minutes each day for visible results.