What is protease in skincare products?

Protease is an enzyme that breaks down proteins and is used in some exfoliating and cleansing products. It provides gentle enzymatic exfoliation compared to physical scrubs. Cosmetic protease is typically derived from fermentation or plant sources.

Is protease safe for skin?

Protease is considered safe at typical cosmetic use levels and is widely used in professional skincare products. Like any enzyme or active ingredient, it can potentially irritate sensitive or compromised skin. Patch testing is wise if you have very reactive skin.

Can protease cause irritation or sensitivity?

Protease can cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness in some individuals, particularly with sensitive skin. Enzymatic exfoliation is generally gentler than physical scrubs but still removes outer skin layers. Those with barrier-compromised or very sensitive skin should use cautiously.

exfoliant · active

Protease

Watch if sensitive·Limited evidence

A protein-digesting enzyme used in enzymatic exfoliating products to gently break down dead skin cells. Individual tolerance varies, and sensitive or compromised skin may experience mild irritation or stinging.

Worth knowing

Can irritate, especially left on

Questions

What is protease in skincare products?: Protease is an enzyme that breaks down proteins and is used in some exfoliating and cleansing products. It provides gentle enzymatic exfoliation compared to physical scrubs. Cosmetic protease is typically derived from fermentation or plant sources.
Is protease safe for skin?: Protease is considered safe at typical cosmetic use levels and is widely used in professional skincare products. Like any enzyme or active ingredient, it can potentially irritate sensitive or compromised skin. Patch testing is wise if you have very reactive skin.
Can protease cause irritation or sensitivity?: Protease can cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness in some individuals, particularly with sensitive skin. Enzymatic exfoliation is generally gentler than physical scrubs but still removes outer skin layers. Those with barrier-compromised or very sensitive skin should use cautiously.

References

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.