KERATOPEEL Keratinase Enzyme 5 g

Why keratinase enzyme matters for softening rough, hardened skin

Keratinase is a proteolytic enzyme capable of breaking down keratin, the tough structural protein that forms the basis of the skin's outer layer, nails, and hair shaft. This unique action places the ingredient in a distinct category of active biocatalysts, and it is featured within the Enzymes, Filtrates, and Lysates section, where enzymatic materials with targeted biological action are gathered. Global demand for keratinase spans several industries well beyond personal care.

In skin care formulations, the enzyme is primarily used to gently break down hardened keratin buildup on heels, elbows, knees, and around the cuticle area. Keratinase loosens dense, keratinized cells, making their removal easier, which is why it is commonly found in foot creams, softening balms for cracked heels, cuticle care products, and enzymatic peels for face and body. Compared to mechanical abrasives, enzymatic exfoliation is often considered more controllable since its intensity can be adjusted through concentration and processing temperature.

Beyond cosmetics, keratinase plays an important role in biotechnology and waste processing industries. The enzyme is used to hydrolyze keratin-rich animal by-products such as feathers, wool, and horn material, yielding amino acids and peptides that are later applied in animal feed production, fertilizers, and biodegradable materials. Keratinase is also used in the leather industry during hide preparation, replacing harsher chemical dehairing methods with a gentler enzymatic process.

When working with this enzyme, it is important to remember its sensitivity to temperature and pH. Keratinase should be added during the final, cool-down phase of a formulation, at a temperature no higher than 35-40 degrees Celsius, to prevent protein denaturation and loss of activity. Typical usage levels range from 0.5 to 2 percent of the total formula weight, depending on the desired exfoliating intensity and the base recipe. The enzyme should be stored in a dry, cool place, protected from direct light and moisture, in a tightly sealed container.

The 5 g packaging is intended primarily for home-based cosmetic making and small trial batches, allowing formulators to test enzyme activity in a specific recipe before scaling up production. Keratinase pairs well with nourishing and stabilizing ingredients, such as Bonicel, which addresses hand skin dryness after exfoliating treatments, and the antioxidant-rich ACB Olive Leaf Extract PF, which helps stabilize the formula and protect skin from oxidative stress. For a more comprehensive renewal effect, this enzyme is often combined with another modern enzymatic product, Zymo Clear MD, which enhances the overall softening action on the outer skin layer.

Foot softening spray with keratinase

Distilled water 70 ml

Aloe vera gel 15 g

Panthenol liquid 3 g

Glycerin 4 g

Urea 3 g

Keratinase 1 g

Preservative 1 g

Combine distilled water, aloe vera gel, panthenol, and glycerin in a clean container and mix until fully blended. Once the base reaches room temperature, add urea and the preservative, stirring gently, then introduce the keratinase enzyme last, mixing slowly until it is evenly dispersed without clumping. Transfer the finished spray into a clean bottle and store it in a cool place, shaking lightly before each use on rough foot skin.