Refining Enzyme & Vitamin C Cleanser
Refining Enzyme & Vitamin C Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A fine, water-activated enzyme powder cleanser that doubles as a gentle exfoliator. Infused with Vitamin C, papain, and moringa seed extract, it transforms into a creamy foam to dissolve dead skin cells, excess sebum, and impurities — revealing a brighter, smoother, and more refined complexion in one simple step.
2-in-1 Cleanse + Exfoliate
Enzyme-activated keratolytic effect dissolves dead skin cells, dirt, and sebum in a single step without harsh scrubbing.
Texture & feel
SENSORY2-in-1 Cleanse + Exfoliate
Enzyme-activated keratolytic effect dissolves dead skin cells, dirt, and sebum in a single step without harsh scrubbing.
Vitamin C Brightening
Pure ascorbic acid helps even skin tone, fight dullness, and boost radiance with every wash for a more luminous complexion.
Moringa Seed Protection
Protein extract from moringa seeds forms a protective shield against urban pollution and environmental stressors.
Travel-Friendly Powder Format
Lightweight, TSA-friendly powder won't leak or spill. Simply add water to activate a rich, creamy foam anywhere you go.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains papain (papaya enzyme) which some dermatologists recommend avoiding during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone present.
Free from ferments, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed malassezia. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin as a wash-off product.
Rated 1/5. Contains no pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. Kaolin clay actually helps absorb excess sebum.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and uses a gentle amino acid-based surfactant (Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate). Patch test recommended for very reactive skin or latex allergies (papain cross-reactivity).
Safe to use in the same routine as retinol, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. Use caution when combining with strong AHA/BHA exfoliants to avoid over-exfoliation.
Enzymatic exfoliation can increase photosensitivity. Always follow with SPF 30+ during the day, especially with Vitamin C in the formula.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAscorbic Acid (Vitamin C)Proven
Pure Vitamin C in its most potent form. As a powerful antioxidant, it neutralizes free radicals, brightens skin tone, and helps stimulate collagen synthesis. In this wash-off format, it delivers a fresh dose of brightening with each use.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin brightening, collagen support
- Evidence: Clinically proven at 5-20% concentration in leave-on products; in a cleanser, provides surface-level brightening and antioxidant protection
- Note: Pure ascorbic acid is unstable in water — the powder format keeps it stable until activated
PapainProven
A proteolytic enzyme naturally derived from papaya fruit. It gently breaks down the protein bonds holding dead skin cells together, providing chemical exfoliation without physical abrasion or irritation.
- Function: Enzymatic exfoliation, keratolytic action
- Evidence: Studies confirm papain effectively digests keratin proteins on the skin surface, promoting smoother texture
- Benefit: Gentler than AHA/BHA exfoliation — works at skin's surface pH without deep penetration
Moringa Oleifera Seed ExtractPromising
Extracted from the seeds of the "miracle tree," this protein-rich ingredient forms a film on the skin that helps trap and remove pollutants, heavy metals, and environmental toxins during cleansing.
- Function: Anti-pollution shield, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
- Evidence: Rich in vitamins E, catechins, and ferulic acid; studies show moringa peptides can bind to airborne particulate matter
- Benefit: Particularly valuable for urban dwellers exposed to daily pollution
Lipase + Protease (Subtilisin)Proven
A powerful enzyme duo: Lipase breaks down excess lipids and sebum trapped in pores, while Protease (Subtilisin) targets protein debris. Together, they provide a thorough deep-pore cleanse without stripping the skin's moisture barrier.
- Function: Sebum digestion (Lipase), protein breakdown (Protease)
- Evidence: Widely used in professional skincare for enzymatic deep cleansing; effective at low concentrations
- Synergy: Combined with papain, they create a triple-enzyme system for comprehensive exfoliation
Sodium Lauroyl GlutamateProven
An ultra-mild amino acid-based surfactant derived from glutamic acid and coconut oil. It produces a gentle, creamy lather while maintaining the skin's natural pH and moisture balance — safe even for baby skin.
- Function: Gentle cleansing surfactant
- Evidence: Rated among the mildest surfactants available; does not disrupt the skin barrier like SLS/SLES
- Irritancy: 0 comedogenic rating, 0 irritancy rating
KaolinProven
A gentle white clay that absorbs excess oil and impurities without over-drying. It helps mattify the skin, minimize the appearance of pores, and provide a smooth base for the enzyme action.
- Function: Oil absorption, pore refining, gentle detox
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — will not clog pores
- Irritancy Rating: 0 — suitable for sensitive skin
11 ingredients
Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Cellulose, Maltodextrin, Kaolin, Aqua/Water/Eau, Xanthan Gum, Ascorbic Acid, Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract, Papain, Lipase, Protease
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your daily cleanser (AM or PM) or as a second cleanse after oil/balm cleanser in the evening. Can be used up to once daily. For sensitive skin, start with 2-3 times per week.
How to use
HOW TO USEDispense the Powder
Shake a small amount of powder (about a teaspoon) into the dry palm of your hand. A little goes a long way.
Activate with Water
Add a few drops of warm water and rub your palms together to work the powder into a rich, creamy foam.
Apply to Skin
Gently massage the foam onto dry face, neck, and décolleté in circular motions for about 60 seconds. Avoid the eye and mouth areas.
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:
- Your skin looks dull, tired, or lacks radiance
- You want gentle exfoliation without harsh physical scrubs
- You have congested pores, blackheads, or uneven texture
- You prefer a minimalist, multi-tasking cleanser
- You travel frequently and need a leak-proof cleanser
- You want to boost the absorption of your serums and treatments
- You live in a city with high pollution levels
Consider alternatives if:
- You have a latex allergy (papain cross-reactivity risk)
- You need heavy makeup removal (use an oil cleanser first)
- You prefer a traditional liquid or gel cleanser format
- You are pregnant and want to avoid all enzyme exfoliants
- You have open wounds, sunburn, or active eczema flares
- You want strong chemical exfoliation (AHA/BHA may be better)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESKaolin clay absorbs excess sebum. Lipase enzyme breaks down pore-clogging oils. Leaves skin clean and matte without stripping.
Gentle amino acid surfactant won't strip moisture. Use 2-3 times per week rather than daily. Follow with a hydrating toner and rich moisturizer.
Balances oily T-zone while being gentle enough for drier cheeks. Enzymes target congestion where it's needed most.
Fragrance-free with a mild surfactant base. Start with 1-2 uses per week. Patch test first if you have very reactive skin or latex allergy.
Non-comedogenic (1/5), fungal acne safe. Enzymes dissolve pore-clogging debris and dead cells that lead to breakouts. No harsh irritants.
Vitamin C supports collagen production. Gentle enzymatic exfoliation promotes cell turnover without micro-tears. Reveals fresher, more radiant skin.
Results timeline
6-8 WEEKSInstant Smoothness & Radiance
Skin feels noticeably softer, cleaner, and more polished right away. Dead surface cells are dissolved, revealing a brighter layer underneath.
90% noticed after first useImproved Texture & Pore Clarity
Regular use begins to refine skin texture and visibly reduce the appearance of clogged pores. Skincare products absorb noticeably better.
78% noticed improved textureBrighter, More Even Skin Tone
Vitamin C and consistent enzyme exfoliation help fade dullness and minor discoloration. Complexion appears more even and luminous.
72% noticed brighter complexionVisibly Refined Complexion
Full cell turnover cycle complete. Skin appears visibly smoother, more toned, and healthier. Fewer blackheads and a sustained glow.
85% reported refined skinRatings by platform
170+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Leaves skin incredibly soft, smooth, and radiant after first use
- Gentle enough for daily use — even on sensitive skin types
- Clean, minimal 11-ingredient formula free of common irritants
- Travel-friendly powder format that won't leak or spill
- Deep cleans pores without harsh scrubbing or stripping
- A little goes a long way — bottle lasts several months
- Noticeably improves absorption of subsequent skincare products
- Fragrance-free — no artificial scents or essential oils
Criticized
- Premium price point ($40 for 40g) compared to drugstore enzyme powders
- Container may appear half-full — powder needs to be shaken to decompress
- Cap design could be improved — doesn't always seal tightly
- Must be kept away from water and steam to prevent clumping
- Not effective for heavy makeup removal on its own
- Takes a couple of tries to master the right powder-to-water ratio
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses protease enzyme (vs. BABOR's triple enzyme system). Includes honey and hyaluronic acid for hydration. Slightly more hydrating but lacks Vitamin C and moringa. 50g for less than half the price.
Rice powder + papaya enzyme formula. Creamier foam texture. Contains allantoin for soothing. No Vitamin C or moringa. More physical exfoliation from rice granules. Great entry-level option.
K-beauty enzyme cleanser with papain. Simpler formula focused purely on enzyme exfoliation. No Vitamin C or anti-pollution benefits. Individually packaged sachets available for travel. Excellent value.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and steam. Keep the lid tightly closed after each use. Do not store in the shower.
Shaker bottle with sifter cap for controlled powder dispensing
Yes — powder format is TSA-friendly, lightweight, and leak-proof. Travel size (15g) also available.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone, which are the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. However, it does contain papain (papaya enzyme), which some healthcare providers recommend avoiding as a precaution during pregnancy. The ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is considered safe. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before incorporating this product into your pregnancy skincare routine.
Yes. This cleanser is considered fungal acne safe. It contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or oils known to feed malassezia yeast. The formula is oil-free and uses only mineral-based (kaolin) and enzyme-based ingredients. As a wash-off product, any minimal contact time further reduces risk.
Yes, with some guidelines. This cleanser pairs well with retinol (use the cleanser in the morning, retinol at night) and vitamin C serums (the cleanser's vitamin C complements a leave-on serum). However, be cautious when combining with strong AHA (glycolic, lactic acid) or BHA (salicylic acid) exfoliants, as using multiple exfoliating steps may lead to irritation. If using acids, alternate days or use the enzyme cleanser in the AM and acids in the PM.
This cleanser is formulated for all skin types. It works especially well for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to its kaolin clay and lipase enzyme content. It's also excellent for mature skin seeking gentle exfoliation and Vitamin C benefits. Dry and sensitive skin types can benefit too — just use it 2-3 times per week instead of daily, and follow with a hydrating routine.
Most users notice immediate smoothness and radiance after the very first use. Improved skin texture and reduced congestion typically become apparent within 1-2 weeks of regular use. More significant results like a brighter, more even skin tone and visibly refined pores usually develop over 4-8 weeks, which aligns with a full skin cell turnover cycle.
Use it as your primary cleanser (Step 1 in the morning, Step 2 in the evening after an oil or balm cleanser). Apply to dry skin, massage for about 60 seconds, then rinse. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). It can replace both your cleanser and your exfoliating step, simplifying your routine.
No. This cleanser has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It contains no oils, heavy emollients, or known pore-clogging ingredients. Kaolin clay (comedogenic rating 0) actually helps absorb excess oil, and the enzymatic action actively works to dissolve the dead cells and sebum that cause clogged pores and blackheads.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Because the powder format is naturally resistant to bacterial growth (no water-based environment for microbes to thrive), it tends to remain effective for its full shelf life. A little goes a long way — with daily use, the 40g bottle typically lasts 2-3 months. Keep it sealed and away from moisture to maximize longevity.
Verdict: The BABOR Refining Enzyme & Vitamin C Cleanser is an outstanding 2-in-1 powder cleanser that delivers noticeable results from the very first use. Its clean, minimal 11-ingredient formula with a triple-enzyme system and stabilized Vitamin C sets it apart from competitors. The fragrance-free, alcohol-free formulation makes it suitable for nearly all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. The powder format brilliantly preserves the Vitamin C's potency while being travel-friendly. The only drawbacks are the premium price point and a cap design that could be more moisture-resistant. If you're looking for a gentle yet effective exfoliating cleanser that brightens, refines pores, and protects against pollution — all without harsh chemicals — this is one of the best options available in the enzyme powder cleanser category.
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 skin’s 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 «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.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 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 |
Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate
Surfactant, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 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 |
Kaolin
Abrasive, Absorbent, Anticaking Agent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Skin Protecting, Slip Modifier, Cosmetic Colorant
|
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|