Enzyme Cleanser
Enzyme Cleanser
Product Description
A water-activated enzyme powder cleanser that transforms into a luxurious foam, gently exfoliating dead skin cells while Vitamin C brightens and Moringa extract protects against environmental stressors. German-engineered for all skin types.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Triple Enzyme Technology
Papain, Subtilisin, and Lipase enzymes work synergistically to break down dead skin cells, excess sebum, and protein buildup without harsh scrubbing.
Vitamin C Brightening
Ascorbic Acid (pure Vitamin C) helps brighten dull skin, even out skin tone, and provide antioxidant protection against free radicals.
Anti-Pollution Shield
Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract forms a protective barrier against urban environmental stressors, pollution particles, and oxidative damage.
Gentle Kaolin Clay
Natural kaolin clay absorbs excess oil and impurities while maintaining skin's natural moisture balance without over-drying.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Vitamin C and natural enzymes are considered safe during pregnancy in topical wash-off products.
Formula is free from ferments, fatty acids (C11-C24), esters, polysorbates, and other ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for pityrosporum folliculitis.
Comedogenic rating of 0/5. Contains no pore-clogging oils, silicones, or heavy emollients. Ideal for acne-prone and congested skin.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula with gentle amino acid surfactant (Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate). Suitable for reactive and sensitized skin types.
While gentle, enzyme exfoliants can cause sensitivity in some individuals. Perform a patch test before first use, especially if you have very reactive skin.
Vitamin C and exfoliation may increase sun sensitivity. Always follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen during daytime use.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
𧬠Papain Proven
A proteolytic enzyme derived from papaya fruit that gently dissolves the protein bonds holding dead skin cells together, providing chemical-free exfoliation that's gentler than physical scrubs.
- Mechanism: Breaks down keratin protein in dead skin cells
- Studies: Shown to improve skin texture and reduce roughness
- Benefit: Non-abrasive exfoliation suitable for sensitive skin
β‘ Subtilisin Proven
A powerful bacterial protease enzyme that works synergistically with papain to enhance the breakdown of dead skin cells and protein debris on the skin surface.
- Source: Derived from Bacillus subtilis bacteria
- Function: Cleaves peptide bonds in proteins
- Synergy: Works with other enzymes for enhanced efficacy
π§ Lipase Proven
A fat-dissolving enzyme that breaks down sebum and oil-based impurities, helping to unclog pores and remove excess surface oils without stripping the skin.
- Action: Hydrolyzes triglycerides into fatty acids
- Benefit: Deep cleanses oily/congested areas
- Advantage: Targets oil-based debris that water alone can't remove
π Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) Proven
Pure L-Ascorbic Acid provides powerful antioxidant protection and brightening benefits, helping to even out skin tone and promote a radiant complexion.
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme to reduce melanin production
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals from UV and pollution
- Collagen: Essential cofactor for collagen synthesis
πΏ Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract Promising
A powerful botanical extract from the "miracle tree" that creates a protective film on skin to shield against environmental pollutants and urban stressors.
- Anti-pollution: Forms barrier against PM2.5 and heavy metals
- Antioxidant: Rich in vitamins A, C, E and polyphenols
- Purifying: Natural cleansing and detoxifying properties
𧴠Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate Gentle Surfactant
An ultra-mild amino acid-based surfactant derived from coconut oil and fermented sugar. Creates a gentle, creamy lather without disrupting the skin barrier.
- pH: Naturally matches skin's acidic pH
- Gentleness: Approved for baby skincare products
- Biodegradable: Environmentally friendly ingredient
11 ingredients
Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Cellulose, Maltodextrin, Kaolin, Aqua/Water/Eau, Xanthan Gum, Ascorbic Acid, Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract, Papain, Subtilisin, Lipase
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your second cleanser (after oil cleanser) or as a standalone morning cleanser. Can be used daily for normal skin, or 2-3x weekly for sensitive skin. Always follow with sunscreen during the day.
π How to Use
Dispense Powder
Shake a small amount (about half a teaspoon) of enzyme powder into the palm of your dry hand. A little goes a long way.
Add Water & Lather
Add a few drops of warm water to your palm. Rub hands together to create a creamy, foamy lather. The powder will transform into a soft foam.
Apply & Massage
Apply the foam to dry or damp face, neck, and dΓ©colletΓ©. Gently massage in circular motions for 30-60 seconds, avoiding the eye area and mucous membranes.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel. Follow with your regular skincare routine and SPF during the day.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want gentle daily exfoliation without harsh scrubbing
- Your skin looks dull and needs brightening
- You have clogged pores and uneven texture
- You prefer fragrance-free, clean formulas
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe exfoliation
- You have fungal acne and need FA-safe products
- You live in a polluted urban environment
- You want professional-grade skincare at home
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have active eczema, psoriasis, or open wounds
- You're allergic to papaya or latex (cross-reactivity with papain)
- You prefer gel or foam cleanser textures over powder
- You need makeup removal (use oil cleanser first)
- You're on a very tight budget (more affordable options exist)
- You dislike the extra step of mixing powder with water
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Lipase enzyme specifically targets excess sebum. Kaolin clay absorbs oil without over-drying. Perfect for controlling shine and preventing congestion.
Gentle enough for dry skin when used 2-3x weekly. Removes flaky buildup without stripping. Follow with hydrating products immediately after.
Ideal for combination skin as enzymes work differently on various face zones. Balances oily T-zone while gently treating drier cheeks.
Fragrance-free and alcohol-free formula with gentle amino acid surfactant. Start with 1-2x weekly use and build tolerance. Patch test first.
Non-comedogenic (0/5) and fungal acne safe. Enzymes unclog pores without irritation. Helps prevent breakouts by removing dead cell buildup.
Vitamin C brightens age spots while enzymes promote cell turnover. Improves texture and radiance. Prepares skin for better serum absorption.
π Results Timeline
Instant Smoothness
Skin feels immediately softer, smoother, and more refined after first use. Surface texture improves noticeably as dead cells are dissolved.
95% noticedEnhanced Radiance
Dull, tired-looking skin begins to glow. Improved light reflection from smoother surface. Better absorption of subsequent skincare products.
87% noticedVisible Brightening
Vitamin C effects become apparent with more even skin tone. Dark spots begin to fade. Complexion looks more luminous and healthy.
78% noticedRefined Pores & Clarity
Consistent use leads to visibly refined pore appearance, reduced congestion, and improved overall skin clarity and texture.
82% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Incredibly gentle yet effective exfoliation
- Leaves skin soft, smooth, and glowing
- Fragrance-free and non-irritating
- Works for sensitive skin types
- Travel-friendly powder format
- German quality and precision formulation
- Long-lasting - a little goes a long way
- Improves absorption of other products
β Criticized
- Higher price point than drugstore options
- Bottle appears half-full (powder settling)
- Requires mixing with water (extra step)
- Can clump if moisture gets in bottle
- Not ideal for heavy makeup removal alone
- May cause sensitivity in papaya-allergic individuals
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
K-beauty cult favorite with papain enzyme and pH 5.5 formula. Contains corn starch base instead of kaolin. Has fragrance and alcohol denat. Great value at fraction of the price.
Uses bromelain (pineapple enzyme) instead of papain. Simpler formula without Vitamin C. Fragrance-free and gentle. Excellent affordable option for enzyme exfoliation beginners.
Contains papain plus green tea antioxidants. Slightly different surfactant system. K-beauty alternative with added soothing benefits. Good for oily and sensitive skin.
Japanese rice bran-based exfoliant without enzymes (physical exfoliation). More luxurious texture but different mechanism. Better for those who prefer physical over enzymatic exfoliation.
π Comparison with Competitors
BABOR Enzyme Cleanser
$32Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
$69Tosowoong Enzyme Powder Wash
$15Tatcha Rice Polish Classic
$68π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Powder format has excellent stability when kept dry.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent moisture from entering and clumping the powder.
Plastic bottle with shaker top for controlled dispensing. Powder may appear compacted during transit - shake gently to restore fluffy texture.
Yes - powder format is TSA-friendly and won't leak. No liquid restrictions apply. Compact size fits easily in toiletry bags.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, BABOR Enzyme Cleanser is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens - all ingredients typically advised to avoid during pregnancy. The enzymes (papain, subtilisin, lipase), Vitamin C, and other ingredients are safe for topical use in wash-off products. However, always consult your healthcare provider before adding new products to your routine during pregnancy.
Yes, BABOR Enzyme Cleanser is fungal acne safe. The formula is free from ferments, fatty acids in the C11-C24 range, esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed Malassezia yeast. The clean, minimal ingredient list makes it an excellent choice for those prone to pityrosporum folliculitis or seborrheic dermatitis.
Yes, but with caution. Since enzyme cleansers provide exfoliation, using them with other exfoliating actives (AHA, BHA, retinol) may cause over-exfoliation and irritation. If using strong actives, consider using the enzyme cleanser on alternate days or in the opposite part of your routine (e.g., enzyme cleanser AM, retinol PM). The Vitamin C in this cleanser is in a wash-off format, so additional Vitamin C serums can typically be used without issue.
BABOR Enzyme Cleanser is formulated for all skin types. It's particularly excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to the lipase enzyme that targets sebum. Sensitive skin can also benefit when used 2-3 times weekly. The fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula makes it suitable for reactive skin types. Those with very dry skin should follow with hydrating products and may prefer using it less frequently.
You'll notice immediate smoothness and softness after the first use. Within 1-2 weeks of regular use, expect improved radiance and better product absorption. Visible brightening from Vitamin C typically appears around 3-4 weeks. Full benefits including refined pores and improved skin clarity develop over 6-8 weeks of consistent use.
Use as your second cleanser in a double-cleansing routine (after oil cleanser removes makeup/sunscreen), or as a standalone morning cleanser. Apply to damp or dry skin before toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. It's most effective on bare skin without any prior product application.
No, BABOR Enzyme Cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 0/5 - it will not clog pores. The formula contains no oils, heavy emollients, or known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, the enzyme action helps unclog pores by dissolving sebum and dead cell buildup. It's an excellent choice for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin.
BABOR Enzyme Cleanser has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The powder format provides excellent stability compared to liquid cleansers. To maximize shelf life, always keep the cap tightly closed, store away from humidity (not in the shower), and avoid getting water into the bottle. A 40g bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with daily use.
Verdict: BABOR Enzyme Cleanser is a premium German-engineered powder cleanser that delivers professional-grade results at home. The triple enzyme technology (papain, subtilisin, lipase) provides effective yet gentle exfoliation without the harshness of physical scrubs, while Vitamin C and Moringa extract add brightening and anti-pollution benefits. The clean, fragrance-free formula is impressively versatile - safe for pregnancy, fungal acne, and sensitive skin. While the price is higher than drugstore alternatives, the quality ingredients, elegant formulation, and visible results justify the investment for those seeking a luxury daily cleanser. Ideal for anyone wanting smoother, brighter, more refined skin without compromise.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
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 Β«promisesΒ» 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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Talc
Abrasive, Absorbent, Anticaking Agent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Skin Protecting, Slip Modifier
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cellulose
Viscosity Controlling, Absorbent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Slip Modifier
|
|
|
| 1 |
Maltodextrin
Skin Conditioning, Emulsion Stabilising, Hair Conditioning, Binding Agent, Binding, Film Forming, Absorbent, Suspending Agent - Nonsurfactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ascorbic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|