Enzyme Face Mask Recipes (Papaya, Pumpkin + More)

by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist

Homemade face masks offer a budget-friendly solution for glowing skin! These easy enzyme mask recipes are simple to make at home—surprisingly powerful yet gentle.

See all my DIY scrubs and masks next…

Quick Enzyme Mask Recipes (At-a-Glance)

Short on time? Try these simple mixes.

Papaya Enzyme Mask at Home

• 2 tbsp ripe papaya, mashed
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp yogurt

Steps: Apply to clean skin. Leave 5–10 minutes. Rinse.

Pumpkin Enzyme Mask Recipe

• 2 tbsp pumpkin purée
• 1 tsp honey
• Pinch cinnamon (optional; skip if sensitive)

Steps: Apply thin layer. Leave 5–10 minutes. Rinse. Moisturize.

Tip: If you’re sensitive, start with 5 minutes only.

Enzyme for skincare

Enzymes are natural exfoliators found in fruits (like pineapple, papaya, and strawberries). These powerful proteins gently remove dead skin cells, revealing fresh, glowing skin underneath.

Unlike granulated scrubs (which I love), enzyme peels and masks are kinder to your skin, making them great for all skin types.

According to board-certified dermatologist and founder of Surface Deep, Dr. Zalka, enzymes work similarly to alpha hydroxy acids but are gentler on some skin types. They make your skin look smoother and can help with pigmentation and breakouts.

Benefits of Homemade Enzyme Masks

Board-certified New York City dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman tells Cosmopolitan magazine, that face masks are beneficial for targeting and controlling specific skincare needs, such as hydration.

While they’re not a standalone solution, they do enhance your skincare routine by providing targeted benefits.

Why should you try enzyme masks? Here are some awesome benefits:

• Gentle Exfoliation: They remove dead skin cells without causing irritation.
• Brightening: Enzymes help even out your skin tone and reduce dark spots.
• Anti-Aging: Regular use can boost collagen, making fine lines and wrinkles less noticeable.
• Hydration: Many enzyme masks have hydrating ingredients that leave your skin feeling soft and smooth.

DIY enzyme mask recipes at home

Here are some recipes you can try at home. These basic recipes have worked for me, but feel free to tweak them to suit your complexion and sensitivity.

1. Pineapple 

Why it works: Bromelain helps lift dull, dead cells. Skin looks brighter

Pineapple Enzyme Peel at Home:

– 1/4 cup fresh pineapple, pureed
– 1 tablespoon coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon honey

Steps: Apply a thin layer. Leave 5–10 minutes. Rinse well. Moisturize.

Patch test first. Tingling is normal. Stinging means rinse.

2. Pumpkin

Why it works: Enzymes + gentle AHAs smooth skin and boost glow.

Pumpkin Enzyme Mask Recipe

• 2 tbsp pumpkin purée
• 1 tsp honey
• Pinch cinnamon (optional; skip if sensitive)

Steps: Mix smooth. Apply to clean skin. Leave 5–10 minutes. Rinse. Moisturize.

Sensitive? Skip cinnamon. Start with 5 minutes.

3. Papaya

Why it works: Papain is gentle. Great first enzyme mask at home.

Papaya Enzyme Mask at Home

• 2 tbsp ripe papaya, mashed
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp yogurt (optional comfort)

Steps: Apply thin layer. Avoid eyes and lips. Wait 5–10 minutes. Rinse. Hydrate.

Want a soft cleanser too? See my gentle exfoliation tips.

4. Berries

Why it works: Antioxidants calm and brighten. Enzymes here are mild.

Antioxidant Face Mask (Homemade, blueberry)

• 1/4 cup mashed blueberries
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional; skip if sensitive)

Steps: Apply for 10 minutes. Rinse well. Moisturize. Use SPF daily.”

5. Peaches

Peachy Keen Clean

Peaches contain natural enzymes that gently exfoliate, perfect for sensitive skin.

Peachy Enzyme Mask:

– 1/4 cup mashed ripe peach
– 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
– 1 teaspoon honey

Combine ingredients, apply to face. Leave 5–10 minutes. Rinse. Moisturize.

6. Cocoa powder

Cocoa Comfort for Sensitive Skin

While cocoa isn’t enzyme-rich, it’s packed with antioxidants. Mixing it with enzyme-rich honey and fruit creates a gentle, nourishing treatment.

Cocoa-Honey Enzyme Blend:

• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon mashed papaya or other fruit mentioned here

Mix ingredients. Apply a thin layer. Leave 10 minutes. Rinse well. Moisturize.

Mask tips

For best results, follow these tips:

• Always patch test new ingredients
• Apply to clean, dry skin
• Use gentle, circular motions when applying
• Don’t leave treatments on longer than recommended
• Follow up with a moisturizer
• Wrap a towel around your shoulders to protect against stains. 

See more facial mask dos & don’ts and different types of facial masks.

Storage: Due to loss of potency and possible bacterial growth, use enzyme face masks immediately. Do not store.

Ingredient recommendations

Fresh ingredients are always the best as they offer the highest enzyme content and benefits. If fresh isn’t available, frozen versions (fully thawed) are the next best alternative.

Canned fruits are not recommended due to enzyme loss and potential additives during processing.

For cocoa, raw or unsweetened cocoa powder is preferable, while sweetened cocoa mixes should be avoided due to added sugars and other ingredients.

Potential side effects

While enzyme treatments are generally gentle, some people may experience irritation. If you notice redness, itching, or burning, rinse off immediately.

Those with extremely sensitive skin or active skin conditions should consult a dermatologist before trying new treatments.

See my FAQ below for more

Enzyme Mask vs. AHA/BHA Peel

Both exfoliate, but the feel is different. Enzymes are usually gentler.

AHAs and BHAs are acids. They can sting more and penetrate faster.

Use one method per session. Alternate nights to protect your skin barrier.

• Best for beginners: Enzyme masks at home, 5–10 minutes.
• Best for faster results: AHAs/BHAs, used with care.
• Always: Moisturize after. Wear sunscreen daily.

Check out my step-by-step on lactic vs glycolic acid — and when to use both

FAQ

Takeaway

Enzyme-based homemade face masks offer a natural, gentle, and inexpensive way to get glowing skin.

By adding these DIY treatments to your skincare routine, you can enjoy the benefits of exfoliation, brightening, and anti-aging without harsh chemicals. It’s a nice break from store-bought chemical laden products.

Remember, consistency is key, so make these masks a regular part of your DIY scrubs and masks beauty routine. You may also like my sugar face scrub recipes or pearl powder mask for more gentle, natural options.

Note: Since I use lactic acid and glycolic chemical peels often (about once a month), I try to add these homemade masks to my routine about 4 times a year. Once for each new season. However, it’s important to find what works best for you.

Here’s to your glowing skin journey!

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