Protease Enzyme

TL;DR. This ingredient is used as an enzymatic exfoliant, helping loosen protein-based bonds between surface skin cells for smoother-feeling skin. It can also support scalp and cleansing formulas by breaking down proteinaceous buildup.

What does Protease Enzyme do in a cosmetic formula?

This ingredient is used as an enzymatic exfoliant, helping loosen protein-based bonds between surface skin cells for smoother-feeling skin. It can also support scalp and cleansing formulas by breaking down proteinaceous buildup.

Is Protease Enzyme clean?

It is generally accepted in clean-beauty frameworks and is not a common restricted-list concern. The main caveat is reactivity, since higher activity levels or compromised skin barriers can lead to stinging, redness, or sensitization, and powdered raw materials require careful handling.

Is Protease Enzyme sustainable?

This ingredient is commonly produced by fermentation or extracted from plant sources, and it is readily biodegradable because it is a protein. Its footprint depends on feedstock source, fermentation inputs, purification, and any stabilizing carriers used in the commercial raw material.

Is Protease Enzyme COSMOS-approved?

It can align with COSMOS-natural and COSMOS-organic when sourced through permitted natural or biotechnology routes and processed with approved aids. Green Chemistry fit is generally good because it is biodegradable and effective at low levels, but GMO-derived production strains or non-approved carriers can limit certification fit.

How does Protease Enzyme work chemically?

This molecule is a catalytic protein that hydrolyzes peptide bonds, which is why it can soften surface buildup and support enzymatic exfoliation. Typical cosmetic use depends on activity units rather than weight alone, often around 0.1% to 2% of a supplier blend, and performance is sensitive to pH, heat, oxidizers, and denaturing solvents.

Last updated 2026-08-17