NIC Esthetician Written ExamTreatment ProceduresMedium
A client with Fitzpatrick skin type III presents with concerns about uneven skin tone and wants to achieve a brighter complexion. The esthetician suggests a series of enzyme peels. What is the primary mechanism of action of enzyme peels that makes them suitable for this client?
- AThey mechanically abrade the outermost layer of the epidermis.
- BThey stimulate cellular turnover by increasing skin acidity.
- CThey chemically dissolve the intercellular glue that holds cells together.
- DThey use fruit-derived enzymes to digest dead protein cells.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. They use fruit-derived enzymes to digest dead protein cells.
Enzyme peels primarily use fruit-derived enzymes (like papain or bromelain) to gently digest and break down dead protein cells on the skin's surface, leading to exfoliation and a brighter complexion without significantly altering the skin's pH or causing deep exfoliation.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This describes mechanical exfoliation methods like microdermabrasion or scrubs, not enzyme peels.
- B. This describes the action of chemical peels (AHAs/BHAs) that lower skin pH to stimulate cell turnover, which is different from enzyme action.
- C. This describes the action of AHAs (like glycolic acid), which dissolve desmosomes, not enzymes.
Enzyme Peel Mechanism
Enzyme peels exfoliate the skin by using proteolytic enzymes to break down and digest dead protein cells on the skin's surface.
- Uses fruit enzymes (e.g., papain, bromelain).
- Gentle exfoliation, suitable for sensitive skin or darker Fitzpatrick types.
- Does not significantly alter skin pH or dissolve intercellular bonds.
Memory trick: Enzymes 'Eat' Dead Cells.