Actizyme advanced botanical ingredient [1] is a natural [2] exfoliating and moisturizing agent. It is a botanical extract rich in an acid protease that mimics the effect of endogenous cathepsin D (the skin’s own desquamating enzymes) to produce a controlled and effective peeling, without side effects.

According to Lubrizol, this funghi-derived extract improves the overall appearance of the skin by increasing clarity without compromising barrier function.

For skin to maintain its glowing appearance, it goes through a natural process of renewal called desquamation. In desquamation, the skin cells go through a complete life cycle – from the base layer of the epidermis to the skin cells maturing and eventually flaking off at the surface. When this process doesn’t happen fully, dead skin cells can remain on the skin, making the skin look rough and dull,” explains Lubrizol Life Science Beauty in a statement.

When it was launched in 2015, Actizyme advanced botanical ingredient was thus presented as a gentle alternative to alpha hydroxyl acids (AHAs) or lactic acid in face and body care formulations.

Benefits for darker skin types

Most recently, Lubrizol investigated the benefits of Actizyme advanced botanical ingredient for darker skin types through new in vivo tests.

Indeed, according to Lubrizol, skin dullness and lack of radiance linked to the accumulation of dead cells is increasing concern for consumers, especially those with darker complexions.

In vivo efficacy testing with Actizyme advanced botanical ingredient was conducted on volunteers with darker complexions. Participants reported visible lightening effects and that their skin appeared more luminous.

Actizyme advanced botanical ingredient can be used in a large array of exfoliating products, from rinse-off masks to leave-on daily creams. Its activity can be modulated by dosage and time to achieve the required exfoliating effect.