Pa
Papaya Extract
Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit ExtractExfoliant
Fruit extract carrying the enzyme papain. Mild proteolytic exfoliant; gentler than acid exfoliants.
What it does
Papaya extract carries papain, a proteolytic enzyme that loosens dead skin proteins. As a topical exfoliant it's milder than AHA or BHA acids and tolerated by sensitive skin that finds glycolic acid too irritating. Common in masks and gentle daily exfoliants. Effects are gradual — enzymes need time to work.
The evidence, graded
strongAHAs and BHAs show texture and brightness improvements in 2-4 weeks. Deeper benefits — acne reduction, fine line softening, pigmentation lightening — take 8-12 weeks of consistent use.Smith 1996 · Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology ↗
Graded per the methodology: strong · moderate · emerging · expert consensus. A weak source on a strong claim gets the weaker label.
Also known as
carica papaya
Pairs worth knowing
This page is public and indexed on purpose (unlike profiles and drops, which are unlisted) — it’s the citation behind shared ingredient cards, and it should be findable.
Want more like this?
Get Drop, free. Every flag cites its source, the app tells you when your routine is complete, and it helps you simplify — instead of selling you more products.