Beauty Clear Enzyme Gold Powder Face Wash
Beauty Clear Enzyme Gold Powder Face Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A Japanese enzyme powder face wash featuring dual enzymes (protease + lipase) and golden beauty oils. Each individually sealed capsule creates a rich, dense foam that dissolves dead skin cells, excess sebum, and pore-clogging impurities while keeping skin moisturized, smooth, and radiant.
Dual Enzyme Technology
Protease breaks down dead protein-based skin cells while lipase dissolves excess sebum and oil plugs, providing a deep yet gentle cleanse.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual Enzyme Technology
Protease breaks down dead protein-based skin cells while lipase dissolves excess sebum and oil plugs, providing a deep yet gentle cleanse.
Golden Beauty Oils
Sunflower seed oil and avocado oil moisturize and nourish while cleansing, preventing the tight, dry feeling common with exfoliating washes.
Amino Acid Surfactants
Sodium myristoyl glutamate and sodium lauroyl glutamate provide a mild, skin-friendly cleanse suitable even for sensitive skin.
Silk-Coated Enzyme Stabilization
Kanebo's proprietary silk-coating technology keeps enzymes stable and active until the moment of use, even under high humidity and temperature.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains sunflower seed oil and avocado oil, which are fatty acid sources that may feed Malassezia yeast. However, as a rinse-off product with short skin contact time, the risk is significantly lower than leave-on products.
Sunflower oil has a comedogenic rating of 0 and squalane is also rated 0. Avocado oil ranges 0–3 but risk is minimal in a rinse-off cleanser.
The amino acid-based surfactants are among the mildest available and are safe for sensitive and baby skin. Unlikely to disrupt the skin barrier.
BHT is used in a very small amount as an antioxidant to prevent oil rancidity. Generally recognized as safe in cosmetics at low concentrations.
Protease and lipase provide gentle enzymatic exfoliation without the irritation risk of high-concentration AHAs or BHAs. Suitable for daily use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSProteaseProven
A proteolytic enzyme that breaks down keratin proteins in dead skin cells. It loosens the bonds between dead cells on the skin surface, allowing them to be gently washed away without physical scrubbing.
- Function: Breaks down protein-based impurities, dead skin cells, and keratin plugs
- Benefit: Smooths rough skin texture and improves clarity without irritation
- Research: Enzyme exfoliation is well-documented as gentler than mechanical or chemical exfoliation for sensitive skin types
LipaseProven
A lipolytic enzyme that targets and dissolves sebum and oil-based impurities. Works synergistically with protease to address both protein and lipid components of pore-clogging debris.
- Function: Breaks down sebum secretions and oil-based pore plugs
- Benefit: Prevents blackheads and reduces visible pore congestion
- Synergy: Combined with protease, provides comprehensive enzymatic cleansing targeting both protein and lipid debris
Sunflower Seed OilProven
A lightweight, linoleic acid-rich plant oil (50–74% linoleic acid) with a comedogenic rating of 0. Provides emollient moisture and helps maintain the skin barrier during cleansing.
- Fatty acid profile: High in linoleic acid (50–74%), which is especially beneficial for acne-prone skin
- Comedogenic rating: 0/5 — extremely unlikely to clog pores
- History: Used in skincare for over 5,000 years; well-established emollient
Avocado OilProven
A nourishing oil rich in oleic acid (70%), vitamins A, E, and D, with exceptional skin penetration abilities. Helps prevent the post-wash dryness and tightness typical of exfoliating cleansers.
- Penetration: Extraordinary ability to nourish different skin layers
- Nutrients: Rich in vitamins A, E, D and fatty acids including palmitic (10%) and linoleic acid (8%)
Licorice Root Extract TraceProven
Contains glabridin, a potent skin-brightening compound. Some studies suggest licorice extract may be more effective than hydroquinone for skin lightening, with fewer side effects.
- Active compound: Glabridin — inhibits UVB-induced pigmentation
- Research: Topical application of 0.5% glabridin shown to inhibit UV-induced pigmentation in studies
- Safety: Considered one of the safest skin-lightening agents with minimal side effects
Sodium Hyaluronate + SqualaneProven
A hydrating duo that counterbalances the exfoliating action. Sodium hyaluronate draws moisture into the skin while squalane provides lightweight, non-comedogenic emollient protection.
- Sodium Hyaluronate: Low molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates more easily for deeper hydration
- Squalane: Comedogenic rating of 0, compatible with all skin types including fungal acne-prone skin
19 ingredients
Talc, Maltitol, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Myristoyl Glutamate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Sodium Olefin (C14-16) Sulfonate, Potassium Laurate, Carrageenan, Licorice Root Extract, Squalane, Citric Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sunflower Seed Oil, Avocado Oil, BHT, DPG, Silk, Ethyl Glucoside, Protease, Lipase, Sodium Benzoate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second cleanser (water-based step) in a double-cleanse routine, or as your sole morning cleanser. Can be used daily — adjust frequency based on your skin's tolerance.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Face & Hands
Start with damp face and hands. This helps the powder lather properly and prevents product waste.
Dispense One Capsule
Open one capsule by peeling from either seal and pour the powder onto your palm. Each capsule contains the perfect single-use dose (0.4g).
Lather with Water
Add a small amount of lukewarm water and work into a rich, dense foam. You can also use a foaming net for an even fluffier lather.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face and gently massage in circular motions for about 30 seconds. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry and follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dull, rough, or uneven skin texture
- You struggle with visible pores, blackheads, or keratin plugs
- You want gentle daily exfoliation without harsh acids
- Your skin feels dry or tight after using other exfoliating cleansers
- You travel frequently and need a portable, hygienic cleanser
- You have combination or dry skin that needs exfoliation without stripping
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne — the oils may be a trigger for some
- You need heavy-duty makeup removal (use an oil cleanser first)
- You prefer a non-powder cleanser format
- You are looking for strong chemical exfoliation (AHA/BHA)
- You are on a very tight budget — cost per wash is higher than tube cleansers
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLipase enzyme effectively breaks down excess sebum. The added oils may feel slightly rich for very oily skin — the original Suisai (blue) may suit you better.
The Gold version was specifically designed for dry skin. Sunflower and avocado oils plus hyaluronate prevent post-wash dryness and tightness.
Ideal balance of enzymatic cleansing and moisturizing oils. Cleans oily zones without over-drying cheeks and dry patches.
Fragrance-free with gentle amino acid surfactants. Patch test recommended. Start with every other day and increase frequency gradually.
Enzymes help prevent pore congestion and keratin plug buildup. Low comedogenic risk as a rinse-off product. Not fungal acne safe due to plant oils.
Results timeline
6–8 WEEKSImmediate Smoothness
Skin feels noticeably smoother and softer right after the first wash. The dense foam provides a satisfying cleansing experience without any tightness or dryness.
90% noticed smoother skinImproved Clarity & Texture
Rough patches begin to diminish. Skin starts to appear brighter and more even as dead skin cell buildup is consistently removed by the dual enzyme action.
75% noticed brighter skinVisible Pore Refinement
Pores appear less congested and visibly smaller. Blackheads and keratin plugs are noticeably reduced. Skin tone becomes more even and radiant.
65% noticed reduced pore visibilityLong-Term Skin Transformation
With consistent daily use, skin maintains a refined texture, balanced moisture levels, and enhanced transparency. Breakouts from clogged pores decrease significantly.
70% reported fewer breakoutsRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally smooth, soft skin immediately after use
- No dryness or tightness — the moisturizing Gold formula is a clear upgrade
- Individual capsules are hygienic and perfect for travel
- Fragrance-free and gentle enough for daily use
- Visibly reduces blackheads and keratin plugs with consistent use
- Dense, satisfying foam that clings well to skin
- Silk-coated enzymes stay active regardless of humidity
Criticized
- Capsules can be fiddly to open, especially with wet hands
- Higher cost per wash compared to tube-format cleansers
- 32 capsules last only ~1 month with daily use
- Contains talc, which some users prefer to avoid
- Not suitable for removing heavy makeup on its own
- Availability outside Japan can be inconsistent
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESAlso a J-beauty enzyme powder wash in individual capsules (30pcs). Uses protease + charcoal + clay instead of dual enzymes + oils. Better for oily skin; less moisturizing than Suisai Gold.
K-beauty powder cleanser (40g jar) with papain + protease enzymes. Adds alpha-arbutin and ceramide for brightening. Better value per use but lacks the convenient capsule format and dual oil blend.
K-beauty enzyme powder (70g jar) with papain enzyme and green tea extract. Larger quantity for the price but uses a single enzyme and comes in a jar format. May be more drying than Suisai Gold.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEFANCL Deep Clear Washing Powder
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Individual capsules remain sealed until use, extending effective shelf life.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and high humidity. The silk-coated enzymes are designed to remain stable under various conditions.
Individually sealed single-use capsules (hexagonal shape) in a resealable tray. Each capsule contains exactly 0.4g of powder.
Yes — individual capsules are TSA-friendly, leak-proof, and easy to carry. No liquid restrictions apply. Perfect for gym bags and travel kits.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This product does not contain any ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The enzymes (protease and lipase) work only on the skin's surface and are rinsed off immediately. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Use with caution. The formula contains sunflower seed oil and avocado oil, which are fatty acid sources that may feed Malassezia yeast. However, since this is a rinse-off product with very short skin contact time (under 60 seconds), the risk is significantly lower than with leave-on products. If you have active fungal acne, consider the original Suisai blue version which does not contain these oils, or opt for a fungal acne-safe alternative.
Yes, but with care. The enzyme exfoliation in this product is gentle, so it pairs well with most active ingredients. If you use strong retinol, AHA, or BHA in your routine, you may want to use this wash on alternate days to avoid over-exfoliation. Vitamin C can be used in the same routine without issues — just apply it after cleansing. Listen to your skin and reduce frequency if you notice irritation or sensitivity.
The Gold version was specifically formulated for dry and combination skin types. The added sunflower and avocado oils provide extra moisture that prevents post-cleansing dryness. It also works well for normal skin. If you have very oily skin, you may prefer the original Suisai (blue) or the Green (CICA) version, which are lighter.
Most users notice smoother, softer skin immediately after the first use. Visible improvements in skin clarity, brightness, and pore appearance typically develop within 2–4 weeks of consistent daily use. For significant improvements in blackheads and keratin plugs, allow 4–8 weeks of regular use.
Use it as the second step in a double-cleanse routine (after oil cleanser) in the evening, or as your sole cleanser in the morning. Follow with toner, essence/serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). It should be used before any leave-on products.
Very unlikely. Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Sunflower oil has a comedogenic rating of 0, squalane is rated 0, and while avocado oil can range 0–3, the product is rinsed off within seconds. The dual enzymes actually help prevent pore congestion by breaking down the proteins and sebum that cause clogs.
The PAO (Period After Opening) is 12 months. However, since each capsule is individually sealed, unopened capsules remain fresh and effective for much longer. The silk-coating technology ensures enzyme activity is preserved even under high humidity. A box of 32 capsules lasts approximately 1 month with daily use, or 2 months if used every other day.
Verdict: The Suisai Beauty Clear Enzyme Gold Powder Face Wash is one of the best enzyme powder cleansers available, especially for dry and combination skin. Its dual enzyme formula (protease + lipase) delivers effective exfoliation while the golden beauty oils prevent the dryness and tightness that plague many exfoliating cleansers. The individually sealed capsules ensure freshness and make it perfect for travel. At approximately $0.53 per wash, it's pricier than jar-format alternatives, but the convenience, hygiene, and Kanebo's proprietary silk-coated enzyme technology justify the premium. A must-try for anyone dealing with dull skin, rough texture, or visible pores who doesn't want to sacrifice moisture for clean.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 |
Talc
Abrasive, Absorbent, Anticaking Agent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Skin Protecting, Slip Modifier
|
|
|
| 1 |
Maltitol
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Moisturising
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Myristoyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
|




