Papaya Enzyme Cleanser
Papaya Enzyme Cleanser
Product Description
A medical-grade enzyme cleanser that combines papaya fruit extract and salicylic acid to gently exfoliate, remove impurities, and reveal naturally vibrant, smooth skin without stripping moisture.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Dual Enzyme Exfoliation
Papain enzyme from papaya fruit gently dissolves dead skin cells for smooth, radiant skin without harsh scrubbing.
Salicylic Acid BHA
Oil-soluble BHA penetrates pores to clear congestion, reduce blackheads, and prevent breakouts.
Antioxidant Protection
Bixa Orellana Seed Extract provides natural antioxidants to soothe and protect skin from environmental stress.
Non-Stripping Formula
Cleanses thoroughly while maintaining skin's natural moisture barrier, leaving it soft and balanced.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains salicylic acid. Low concentrations in wash-off products are generally considered safe per ACOG, but consult your OB-GYN before use.
Not recommended. Contains fragrance, maltodextrin, and certain esters that may feed malassezia yeast.
Water-based gel formula with low comedogenic rating (1/5). Wash-off product minimizes pore-clogging risk.
Contains SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate). Those with very sensitive or reactive skin should patch test first.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Papain (Papaya Enzyme) Proven
A proteolytic enzyme derived from papaya fruit that breaks down protein bonds holding dead skin cells together, providing gentle enzymatic exfoliation without physical abrasion.
- Function: Dissolves dead skin cells through enzymatic action
- Benefit: Smoother texture, brighter complexion, improved product absorption
- Source: Carica Papaya Fruit Extract
π§ͺ Salicylic Acid BHA Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates oil-filled pores to exfoliate inside the pore lining, making it particularly effective for oily and acne-prone skin.
- Function: Oil-soluble exfoliant that unclogs pores from within
- Benefit: Reduces blackheads, minimizes pore appearance, prevents breakouts
- Research: Keratolytic and anti-inflammatory properties well-documented
πΊ Bixa Orellana Seed Extract Promising
Also known as annatto extract, this natural ingredient provides the cleanser's orange color while delivering potent antioxidant and soothing benefits.
- Function: Natural colorant with antioxidant properties
- Benefit: Soothes skin, protects against free radical damage
- Source: Seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana)
21 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, PEG-18 Glyceryl Oleate/Cocoate, Sorbitol, Glycereth-2 Cocoate, Carica Papaya Fruit Extract, Butylene Glycol, Salicylic Acid, Papain, Bis-PEG/PPG-20/20 Dimethicone, Acrylates/Aminoacrylates/C10-30 Alkyl PEG-20 Itaconate Copolymer, Citric Acid, Bixa Orellana Seed Extract, Carbomer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Maltodextrin, Benzoic Acid, Fragrance (Parfum)
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your first step in skincare routine. Can be used as second cleanser after oil cleanser for double cleansing method. Always follow with sunscreen during the day.
π How to Use
Dispense Product
Dispense a nickel-sized amount into the palm of your hand. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Create Lather
Rub hands together with a small amount of water to create a gentle lather.
Massage onto Face
Apply to face using circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Avoid the delicate eye area.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and gently pat dry. Follow with the rest of your skincare routine.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with clogged pores or blackheads
- You want gentle daily exfoliation
- You need a cleanser that removes makeup
- You prefer professional-grade skincare
- You're looking for post-procedure cleansing
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're extremely sensitive to SLS
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You have very dry skin needing rich cleansers
- You're pregnant and prefer to avoid salicylic acid entirely
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal match. Salicylic acid controls oil, enzyme exfoliation prevents buildup, leaves skin matte and clean without over-drying.
Balances well across different face zones. Clears T-zone without stripping drier cheek areas.
Works well for maintenance and keeping skin clear. Provides brightening benefits and smooth texture.
May be slightly drying for very dry skin. Use once daily instead of twice and follow with hydrating products.
Contains SLS and fragrance. Patch test recommended. Many sensitive users tolerate it well, but start slowly.
Salicylic acid targets acne at the source. Low comedogenic rating. Great for preventing and treating breakouts.
π Results Timeline
Clean, Refreshed Feeling
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed, soft, and refreshed without tightness or dryness. Light fruity scent provides an energizing experience.
95% noticedSmoother Texture
Dead skin cell buildup decreases. Skin feels noticeably smoother and products absorb better. Pores may appear smaller.
85% noticedClearer, Brighter Complexion
Reduced blackheads and congestion. Skin appears more radiant and even-toned. Fewer breakouts for acne-prone users.
78% noticedVisible Transformation
Significant improvement in overall skin clarity and texture. Established users report long-term glow and reduced need for other exfoliating treatments.
70% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Effectively removes makeup and impurities
- Leaves skin soft without feeling stripped
- Pleasant fruity scent from natural papaya
- A little product goes a long way
- Great for oily and combination skin
- Dermatologist recommended
- Noticeable improvement in skin texture
- Suitable for post-procedure cleansing
β Criticized
- Contains SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate)
- Contains added fragrance
- Higher price point than drugstore options
- Not fungal acne safe
- May be too drying for very dry skin
- Scent may be too strong for some
- Pregnancy safety requires caution
- 6.7 oz size runs out with daily use
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Also contains papaya enzyme for gentle exfoliation. No salicylic acid, so less acne-fighting power. More affordable but different texture and formula approach.
Contains salicylic acid plus ceramides for hydration. No enzyme exfoliation but excellent for acne-prone skin. Fragrance-free and more accessible.
Similar papaya enzyme + salicylic acid combo. Claims paraben and sulfate-free formula. Includes anti-inflammatory ingredients not found in Revision.
Contains 0.5% salicylic acid. No enzyme exfoliation but fragrance-free and gentle. Better suited for extremely sensitive skin types.
π Comparison with Competitors
Revision Papaya Enzyme Cleanser
$42.00Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel
$14.00CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser
$16.99SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
$48.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap
Yes - 6.7 oz exceeds TSA carry-on limits, but 3.4 oz travel size available
β Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution. This cleanser contains salicylic acid, which is generally considered safe in low concentrations (under 2%) in wash-off products per the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Since it's a rinse-off product with limited skin contact time, absorption is minimal. However, Revision Skincare recommends consulting your physician before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as they do not conduct studies on pregnant or nursing mothers.
No, this cleanser is not recommended for fungal acne sufferers. It contains fragrance (parfum), maltodextrin, and certain esters that can potentially feed the Malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. If you have malassezia folliculitis, consider alternatives with simpler ingredient lists that avoid fatty acids, ferments, and problematic esters.
Yes, but be mindful of potential irritation. Since this cleanser already contains salicylic acid (BHA), using additional BHA products immediately after may cause over-exfoliation. You can safely use retinol or vitamin C serums in your routine, but introduce them gradually. If you use AHA products (like glycolic acid), consider alternating days to avoid irritation. Always listen to your skin and reduce frequency if you notice redness or sensitivity.
This cleanser is ideal for oily and combination skin types. The dual-action formula of papaya enzyme and salicylic acid effectively controls oil, clears pores, and prevents breakouts while maintaining hydration. It works well for acne-prone skin and those concerned with enlarged pores or dull skin. Normal skin types will also benefit. Dry and sensitive skin types may find it slightly drying and should use cautiously, perhaps only once daily.
Results vary by individual, but most users report immediate results in terms of how clean and soft skin feels. Smoother texture is typically noticeable within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Clearer, brighter skin and reduced blackheads usually become apparent after 3-4 weeks. Significant transformation in overall skin clarity typically occurs after 6-8 weeks of twice-daily use.
This cleanser should be the first step in your skincare routine (or second if you use an oil-based cleanser first for double cleansing). Apply to damp skin, massage for 30-60 seconds, rinse thoroughly, then follow with your toner, serum, eye cream, moisturizer, and sunscreen (morning only). Use twice daily, morning and evening, for best results.
This cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. As a water-based gel cleanser that rinses off, it's unlikely to clog pores. In fact, the salicylic acid actively works to unclog existing congestion. The enzyme exfoliation helps prevent the dead skin cell buildup that contributes to clogged pores. Users with acne-prone skin generally report clearer skin with consistent use.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and efficacy. The 6.7 fl oz bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use, as only a nickel-sized amount is needed per application. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the cap tightly closed to maintain product integrity.
Verdict: Revision Skincare Papaya Enzyme Cleanser is an excellent medical-grade option for those with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin seeking gentle yet effective daily exfoliation. The dual-action formula of papaya enzyme and salicylic acid delivers visible results in texture, clarity, and pore refinement. While the presence of SLS and fragrance may not suit everyone, and it's not fungal acne safe, the overwhelming positive reviews and dermatologist endorsements make it a solid choice for most skin types. The higher price point is justified by the professional-grade formulation and noticeable results. Best suited for those willing to invest in clinical skincare.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-18 Glyceryl Oleate/Cocoate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sorbitol
Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Plasticizer, Masking
|
Hydrating
|