Brightening Enzyme Cleansing Powder Formulation for Gentle Exfoliation

Asked by: imm_consulting On: February 09, 2026 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I am looking for an Enzyme Cleansing Powder formulation with the following requirements:

  • Focus on gentle exfoliation (cell turnover)
  • Promotes skin brightening
  • Leaves the skin feeling hydrated and not tight after washing

Answer

For an Enzyme Cleansing Powder that focuses on gentle exfoliation, brightening, and maintaining skin moisture (non-drying), I recommend the following formulation using gentle amino acid-based surfactants and stabilized enzymes.

Enzyme Cleansing Powder Formulation (Brightening & Gentle Exfoliation)

  1. Zea Mays (Corn) Starch: Balance to 100% (approx. 56.5-68%)
    • Acts as the powder base, absorbs excess oil, and provides a smooth texture.
  2. Amino Powder Cleanser: 30%
    • A very gentle amino acid-based surfactant (Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate) that provides soft foam without stripping the skin's natural moisture.
  3. Stabilized protease enzyme (removing protein stains, powder): 1%
    • A stable enzyme that specifically breaks down dead skin cells (protein), helping to smooth the skin and reduce clogs without the irritation of physical scrubs.
  4. Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C SAP): 2%
    • A stable form of Vitamin C in powder form that helps brighten the skin and provides antioxidant benefits during the wash.
  5. Allantoin: 0.5%
    • Helps soothe the skin and reduce potential irritation.

Mixing Procedure

  1. Weigh all powder ingredients according to the proportions.
  2. Mix them thoroughly in a dry environment. You can use a blender at low speed or stir manually until the mixture is homogeneous.
  3. Avoid high-speed mixing that creates excessive dust.
  4. Store in an airtight, moisture-proof container immediately.

How to Use

  • Pour a small amount of powder (about the size of a coin) onto wet palms.
  • Rub hands together to create a creamy foam.
  • Gently massage onto the face for 30-60 seconds to allow the enzymes to work.
  • Rinse thoroughly with water.

Important Notes

  • Moisture Sensitivity: Since this is a powder formula containing enzymes, it is extremely sensitive to moisture. Ensure the packaging is tightly sealed and kept in a dry place to prevent clumping and enzyme degradation.
  • Customization: You can adjust the amount of Amino Powder Cleanser if you prefer more or less foam.

Follow-up Replies

imm_consulting
February 13, 2026 21:13
Question:

I am looking to develop an Enzyme Cleansing Powder formulation with a focus on gentle exfoliation, skin brightening, and maintaining hydration without a tight feeling after washing.

I would like to ask for advice on the following:

  • Can I incorporate Papaya Enzyme into the formulation?
  • Which surfactant would be more suitable for this type of product: the recommended Amino Powder Cleanser or baby foam (derived from coconut)?

The initial formulation structure I am considering is:

  • Zea Mays (Corn) Starch: Base (Balance to 100%)
  • Surfactant: 30%
  • Enzyme: 1%
  • Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C SAP): 2%
  • Allantoin: 0.5%

Thank you for your assistance.

Answer:

You can certainly use Papaya Enzyme in this formulation. It is an excellent choice for a powder cleanser because it remains stable in dry form and provides effective yet gentle exfoliation by breaking down dead skin cells.

Regarding the surfactants, here is a comparison to help you choose:

  • Amino Powder Cleanser: This is a pre-mixed blend of Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate and Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate. It is designed specifically for facial powders to provide maximum gentleness and a soft, hydrated feel. It is the best choice if your priority is preventing any "tight" sensation after washing.
  • BabyFoam™ (Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate): This is a single surfactant derived from coconut. It produces a rich, creamy lather and is very gentle. While excellent, the Amino blend is slightly superior for skin hydration due to the inclusion of the amino acid-based glutamate.

Updated Enzyme Cleansing Powder Formula (Papaya & Brightening)

  1. Zea Mays (Corn) Starch: 66.5% (Base)
  2. Amino Powder Cleanser (or BabyFoam™): 30% (Surfactant)
  3. Papaya Enzyme (Papain): 1% (Exfoliating enzyme)
  4. Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C SAP): 2% (Brightening agent)
  5. Allantoin: 0.5% (Soothing agent)

Mixing and Usage Instructions

  1. Mixing: Ensure all equipment and the environment are completely dry. Mix all powders together until homogeneous. Avoid high-speed mixing to prevent dust.
  2. Storage: Store in an airtight container. Enzymes and Vitamin C SAP are sensitive to moisture and will degrade if the powder becomes damp.
  3. Usage: Mix a small amount of powder with water in your palm to create a foam. Massage onto the face for 30-60 seconds, then rinse.

Recommendation

For the "hydrated and not tight" requirement, I recommend using Amino Powder Cleanser at 30%. If you find you want even more foam, you can increase this to 40-50% and reduce the Corn Starch accordingly.

Related Products Mentioned

Allantoin
Allantoin
Cosmetics
Amino Powder Cleanser
BabyFoam™ (Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Super Fine Powder, High Dissolve)
AminoWash™ (Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Fine)
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C SAP, e.q. Stay C50)
Stabilized protease enzyme (removing protein stains, powder)
Zea Mays (Corn) Starch
Papaya Enzyme (Papain)

Tags

Anhydrous Formulation Brightening Cleansing Powder Exfoliation Mild Cleansing