15 Best Enzyme Masks To Exfoliate Dull Facial Skin, As Per An Esthetician

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.

15 Best Enzyme Masks To Gently Exfoliate Dead Skin

1. Best Cruelty-Free:insta natural Exfoliating Glycolic Face Mask And Face Scrub

4.2

Image: Instanatural

BUY ON AMAZON | $13.97

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.

Pro Tip

Use this enzyme mask on any part of the body that has dry or cracked skin. It exfoliates the skin, resulting in a smoother texture.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has gained over 3,516 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.

2. Best Anti-Aging:Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask

4.6

Image: Peter Thomas

Now 30% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $42

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.

3. Best Vegan:L&I Apothecary Arista Pumpkin Facial Mild Peel

4.3

Image: L&i Apothecary

BUY ON AMAZON | $24.97

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.

Quick Tip

For the best enzyme mask results, apply this face mask to dry skin and wash it off after 10–12 minutes when the skin is semi-dry.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

There are more than 984 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.

	insta natural Exfoliating Glycolic Face Mask And Face Scrub Best Cruelty-Free	Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask Best Anti-Aging	L&I Apothecary Arista Pumpkin Facial Mild Peel Best Vegan
	Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now
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
Reviews	3,516	967	984
Price	$13.97	$42	$24.97

4. Best Moisturizing:Andalou Naturals Bioactive 8 Berry Fruit Enzyme Mask

4.4

BUY ON AMAZON | $11.55

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.

5. Best Rejuvenating:ELEMIS Papaya Enzyme Peel

4.6

Image: Elemis

BUY ON AMAZON | $43.29

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.

6. Best Brightening:Bliss Pumpkin Powerhouse Resurfacing & Exfoliating Enzyme Face Mask

4.3

Image: Bliss

BUY ON AMAZON | $13.99

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.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The overwhelming 1,089 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.

7. Best For Even Skin Tone:Mario Badescu Enzyme Revitalizing Mask

4.4

Image: Mario Badescu

BUY ON AMAZON | $18.0

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.

Quick Tip

Regardless of your skin type, follow up this enzyme face mask with a soothing moisturizer and sunscreen to preserve your skin barrier. If you have dry skin, add a hydrating serum.

8. Best Gentle Formula:COSMEDIX Pure Enzymes Cranberry Exfoliating Mask

4.4

Image: Cosmedix

BUY ON AMAZON | $57.0

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.

9. Best Hydrating:Osmosis Skincare Cranberry Enzyme Mask

4.4

Image: Osmosis

BUY ON AMAZON | $56.0

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.

10. Best Organic:Glimmer Goddess Organic Papaya & Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask

3.9

Image: Srb Skin Care

BUY ON AMAZON | $17.95

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.

11. Best Overnight Treatment: Alba Botanica Hawaiian Facial Mask

4.4

Image: Alba Botanica

BUY ON AMAZON | $9.49

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.

12. Best Reasonably Priced:go Pure Enzyme Masque

4.3

Image: Gopure

BUY ON AMAZON | $19.99

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.

13.  Best Non-GMO:Andalou Naturals Kombucha Enzyme Exfoliating Mask

4.4

Image: Andalou Naturals

BUY ON AMAZON | $13.25

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.

14. Best Hydroquinone-Free:Aloette Aloepure Restorative Enzyme Peel

4.6

Image: Aloette

BUY ON AMAZON | $42.95

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.

15. Best Lightweight:Image Vital C Hydrating Enzyme

4.5

Image: Image Skincare

BUY ON AMAZON | $40

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.

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

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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Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Carlee SpathLicensed Esthetician

   

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.

Read full bio of Carlee Spath

Oyendrila KanjilalCommerce Writer

 

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, she writes about everything that the modern woman needs to know about grooming and self-care.

Read full bio of Oyendrila Kanjilal

Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor

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 editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti

Eshna DasAssociate Editor

Eshna is an associate editor and a certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple main bachelor’s degree in psychology, English, and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.

Read full bio of Eshna Das