Benefits
Provides gentle exfoliation
Accelerates cell turnover
Boosts hydration and radiance
Best For
All skin types
Sun-damaged skin
Pre-menopausal skin
Menopausal skin
What Is Pomegranate Enzyme?
Pomegranate is a nutrient-rich extract derived from the seeds of Punica granatum that provides excellent support in skincare. It contains high levels of antioxidants, vitamin C and natural fruit enzymes that gently digest dead skin cells.
These enzymes improve skin texture, while the antioxidants help protect against irritation. Pomegranate extract is an enzyme-based extract, offering a gentler alternative to traditional acid-based exfoliants.
How It Works
Proteolytic enzymes target dead skin cell breakdown, exfoliating without irritation. This process triggers natural cell turnover, revealing fresher skin.
The antioxidant-rich extract also protects against free radicals and premature ageing, supporting the skin's natural defences while it exfoliates.
Why Formulation Matters
The high levels of active polyphenols in pomegranate extract are sensitive to oxidation, so care should be taken when the extract is exposed to heat, light and oxygen. It should be added during the cool-down phase to prevent degradation, and water-soluble extracts should be used in aqueous formulas.
Nourish London's Kale Enzymatic Exfoliator, formulated with pomegranate enzyme technology, was independently tested under dermatological supervision by Dr Koziej (Warsaw), involving 30 women aged 40 to 71 over four weeks of home use, in accordance with EU Cosmetics Regulation and Cosmetics Europe testing guidelines. Of the 30 participants, 29 completed the trial with no adverse effects reported, and the supervising dermatologist confirmed the product is suitable for facial skin hygiene and care (Dr Koziej Sp. z o.o., 2023).
Scientific Notes
Pomegranate is part of a wider category of fruit-processing residue bioactives, including peels, seeds and pomace, increasingly recognised for their potential in skin health (Alhamdani et al., 2026). Research in this area points to a role for these plant-derived polyphenols and antioxidants in supporting skin's antioxidant defences, barrier integrity, hydration, and protection against environmental and photo-induced stress.
Interest also continues in pomegranate's traditional use supporting the skin's natural healing processes, including studies on pomegranate peel extract's role in supporting dermal wound healing (Hayouni et al., 2011).
Products With Pomegranate Enzyme
