Papain is a proteolytic enzyme derived from papaya (Carica papaya) that breaks down keratin and dead skin proteins, providing gentle exfoliation. It is also used to soften skin and aid in the removal of debris and surface buildup.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Skin irritation, redness, or stinging | Common | Particularly on sensitive skin or at higher concentrations. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Uncommon | Sensitization can develop with repeated exposure. |
Contact urticaria | Rare | Hives can occur in sensitized individuals. |
Respiratory hypersensitivity or asthma from powder inhalation | Rare | Mainly an occupational risk during handling of raw enzyme powder. |
Anaphylaxis | Very rare | Severe systemic reaction reported in highly allergic individuals, often with latex-fruit cross-reactivity. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.