Bromelain
Proteolytic enzyme from pineapple stems. Breaks keratin bridges and delivers a light chemical-peel effect with an anti-inflammatory bonus.
Evidence by route
Topical application
The cosmetic effect stays mild and suits people who tolerate acids poorly. Contact allergy happens in users sensitive to papain and latex.
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Medium
- Allergen risk
- Moderate
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Oily, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Bromelain is a mixture of proteolytic enzymes (mainly cysteine proteases) from the stems and fruits of pineapple Ananas comosus. In pharmaceuticals it is a component of products that speed up resolution of oedema and haematomas; in cosmetics it is a mild enzyme peel and anti-inflammatory ingredient. Mechanism. Cleaves peptide bonds in the keratin matrix proteins of the stratum corneum – helping shed dead cells. Action is gentler than AHA acids and does not depend on pH (works in neutral formulas). Suppresses pro-inflammatory mediators (bradykinin, prostaglandin E2) – hence anti-oedema and anti-inflammatory action. Where applied. Enzyme peels (powders, gels), masks, problem-skin products, post-procedure products. Cosmetic concentration 0.1–2%, activity in GDU/g (gelatin digesting units). In Spain part of Sesderma Acglicolic, Mesoestetic AHA Refiner, niche K-beauty lines. Evidence base. Few direct clinical RCTs on topical bromelain monotherapy – usually studied as part of enzyme complexes with papain, protease, and AHAs. Hale 2005 showed a mild keratolytic effect in vivo. Orally – Brien 2004 (meta-analysis) showed significant reduction of oedema and pain after surgery. Beauche-Bachelot 2024 described clinical use as an adjunct in acne and post-acne pigmentation. Safety. Irritation, burning, itching in sensitive-skin patients above 1%. Allergy reported in patients with pollen (pollinosis) and latex allergy – cross-reactivity. No direct CIR monograph. Do not apply to broken or actively inflamed skin. Pregnancy – use with caution. Topical systemic absorption is low and the risk is purely theoretical, but AEMPS advises avoiding enzyme peels in the first trimester as a precaution. Alternatives: azelaic acid, niacinamide, low-concentration glycolic acid. Lactation – topically with caution. Particularly suitable for. Oily and combination skin, post-acne pigmentation, dull complexion, blackheads. Once a week as a mask or peel, usually in the evening with SPF the next day. Not for dry and sensitive skin in flare.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bromelain safe during pregnancy?
Bromelain should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Bromelain for?
Bromelain suits: normal, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
Can Bromelain irritate the skin?
Bromelain has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
What is Bromelain and what does it do in cosmetics?
Proteolytic enzyme from pineapple stems.
What's the INCI name for Bromelain?
The INCI name is Bromelain.
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