What Is Cellulase?
Cellulase is an enzyme that breaks down cellulose, the sturdy carbohydrate that makes up plant cell walls. Commercial cellulase used in cosmetics is usually obtained by fermenting fungi or bacteria that naturally produce the enzyme, then purifying the resulting protein. The discovery of cellulase dates back to the late 1800s, but it did not catch the attention of cosmetic chemists until the 1990s, when smoother, more refined skin textures became fashionable and formulators looked for gentle biological exfoliants. Today cellulase is produced in controlled fermentation tanks, followed by filtration, concentration and drying into a stable powder or liquid concentrate that blends easily into creams, gels and serums. You will most often find it in exfoliating masks, clarifying cleansers, anti aging lotions and some toothpaste or mouth rinse formulas that target stubborn plaque.
Cellulase’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Below are the main ways cellulase supports topical products
- Keratolytic: By helping to loosen and break down the dull dead skin cells that cling to the surface, cellulase promotes a smoother, brighter complexion and can enhance the absorption of follow up skincare
- Oral Care: When included in toothpaste or mouthwash, cellulase helps disrupt the cellulose rich matrix that some food residues create, aiding in a cleaner feeling mouth and fresher breath
- Viscosity Controlling: In creams and gels the enzyme can subtly adjust thickness, giving formulators finer control over texture so the product spreads evenly and feels pleasant on the skin
Who Can Use Cellulase
Cellulase suits most skin types including normal, oily, dry and combination because it targets the dead surface layer without stripping deeper moisture. Sensitive skin can usually use it as well since the enzyme works in a gentle, controlled way but anyone with a history of enzyme allergies or very reactive skin should proceed with extra care. The ingredient is produced by fermenting microorganisms and no animal by-products are involved so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Pregnant or breastfeeding users are not known to face extra risk from topical cellulase, yet this is not medical advice and it is always wise for expecting or nursing women to clear any skincare choice with their doctor. Cellulase does not make skin more prone to sunburn because it is not a photosensitizer, though daily sunscreen remains a smart habit. There are no known issues with using it alongside common actives like vitamin C or niacinamide, as cellulase performs its job on the very outer layer and then becomes inactive.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical cellulase can vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects, but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild redness or stinging
- Temporary dryness or tightness
- Flaking if overused
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people sensitive to enzyme proteins
- Reduced efficacy if stored in very hot or moist conditions, which could lead to formula spoilage
If you notice any of these issues stop use immediately and seek guidance from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 out of 5. Cellulase is a water soluble enzyme that breaks down large cellulose molecules and does not leave behind oily or waxy residues that could block pores. Because it rinses off or deactivates once its job is done it is considered non comedogenic and is generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts. Unless paired with heavy occlusive ingredients in a given formula cellulase itself poses virtually no risk of pore clogging.
Summary
Cellulase works as a gentle keratolytic by cleaving tiny cellulose like structures that hold dead cells together which helps reveal smoother brighter skin. In oral care it disrupts cellulose rich food films making brushing more effective and in creams or gels it subtly tweaks thickness for a more pleasant glide. The enzyme pops up in exfoliating masks clarifying cleansers and some specialty toothpastes but it is still less famous than buzzier acids or retinoids so you may have to read ingredient lists to spot it. Overall cellulase is considered low risk for irritation and non comedogenic yet as with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test first to be sure your skin agrees with it.