The power of enzymes in dermatology

Enzymes are proteins that are involved in all the metabolic reactions of our body, from the digestion of nutrients to the formation of other molecules. These enzymes can be both catalysts and accelerators and play a very important role in the general health and well-being of the body. There is no element, no mineral, no hormone or vitamin that can perform any function in the body, without the action of enzymes. 

There are more than 100 different types of enzymes in the body, of which approximately 22 are digestive. The three main types of enzymes are: metabolic enzymes, which are those involved in metabolic reactions in the body, responsible for the repair, restructuring and remodeling of each cell and are essential for maintaining good health; the digestive ones, which are those that help in the digestion of food (proteases, amylases, carbohydrates and lipases); and nutritional ones, which are those that come from raw foods and help with daily nutrition.

Enzymes are mainly involved in the aging process, which is why today they are considered as a supplement in anti-aging treatments. For this reason, we recently spoke with the dermatology specialistMartha E. Martínez about the power of enzymes in dermatology.

"In dermatology, the use of enzymes such as lipase (fat dissolution), hyaluronidase (draining power that eliminates toxins, liquids and fat) and collagenase (smoothing effect that eliminates orange peel skin), is a real boom in treatments. body and facial, which fascinates both women and men for its safety and quick and permanent results", he says.

According to Dr. Martha, this type of procedure is known as enzyme-based biotechnology and is used to:

- Eliminate localized fat, shape and refine the figure, eliminate fibrous and adipose cellulite, firm tissues and retract the skin towards the muscle, and improve the appearance of the skin in those areas of localized fat, which neither the gym nor the diet they manage to remove.
- Reduce double chin, prominent cheeks and facial fat, aspects that make a tired and older face look.
- Chest in men.
- Buttock lift with removal of surrounding fat.
- As an anti-cellulite treatment, as it controls orange peel skin and gets rid of nodules.
- As an auxiliary in body treatments with devices and in weight control, since it enhances and accelerates results.

Martínez points out that in dermatology, the majority of the enzymatic products used are products of European origin, with high standards of control and safety, which give them the degree of cosmeceutical; That is, they have aesthetic functions, with scientific bases and pharmaceutical controls.

These enzymes must be applied by qualified medical personnel, such as dermatologists or plastic surgeons, which will provide safety to the patient. Before applying the enzyme, the solution to be used is prepared in front of the patient and infiltrated using an insulin microneedle.

The number of sessions depends on the amount of fat or pathology to be treated and the expectations of each patient. Generally, 6 to 10 sessions are sufficient, providing significant change. When the enzymatic solution is used as an auxiliary to reductive or anti-cellulite treatments, the sessions or their application depend on the patient's goals and their investment capacity.

"Once infiltrated, the enzymes begin to act immediately to trigger fat burning processes, dissolution of cellulite nodules and a draining effect of fat, fluid and toxins. Patients claim to feel the work of the enzymes and see some changes from the first application", Explica.

The treatment can be carried out every 15 days and can be complemented with radiofrequency. The term of treatment will depend on each individual, the pathology or area to be treated. It can be applied to men or women who want to improve localized fat, scars, keloids, cellulite, buttock lift, improve skin quality, among others.

Contraindications and side effects
According to the dermatologist, each case must be evaluated individually and based on this, the area to be treated and the patient's aspirations, define which enzyme to use, how and in how many sessions it should be applied.

Among its contraindications is not taking anticoagulant treatments, due to the risk of developing bruises or hematomas easily, or if you suffer from a collagen disease.

Regarding side effects, Martínez points out that secondary reactions may occur such as: heat and/or redness in the treated area, discomfort or pain such as when a lot of exercise has been done, and small bruises. All discomfort should disappear within a maximum of 48 hours.

"Treatment with enzymes in the body and facial area offers quick, safe results, without risks of anesthesia and without scars. It can be complemented with radiofrequency and topical enzymatic treatments. The patient immediately returns to his family, social and work activities. "He says.

"Enzymes are the latest and most effective in reductive-firming treatment, to show the best of us in the upcoming parties and summer that is coming. Dare to experience the power of enzymes", emphasizes.