# SKINFOOD Black Sugar Perfect Enzyme Powder Wash for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United States.

Brand: [SKINFOOD](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/skinfood)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for acne-prone skin; other products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your combination skin, as papain and lactobionic acid provide enzymatic and mild chemical exfoliation to regulate desquamation. While beneficial for general cleansing, these ingredients are not specifically targeted for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- Allantoin and betaine offer soothing benefits, contributing to a gentle experience for your acne-prone skin.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Black Sugar Extract, Zea Mays Starch, Papain, Ficus Carica Fruit Extract, Beta Vulgaris Root Extract

## What the research says

- Soaps containing betaine caused the least skin irritation compared to other tested soaps in twenty-eight healthy subjects, though irritation did not decrease with increasing concentrations of betaine. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12535284/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- A fixed combination of hydroxypinacolone retinoate, retinol glycospheres, and papain glycospheres in aqueous gel applied once daily for 12 weeks achieved a 41% mean reduction in GAGS score and a 40.8% mean reduction in total lesions, with 15.3% of patients experiencing mild to moderate local side effects, in 94 evaluable patients with comedonal-papular, mild to moderate acne of the face. ([Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/))
- A Ficus carica cell suspension culture extract reduced epinephrine, interleukin 6, lipid peroxide, and protein carbonylation, induced ceramide synthesis, and decreased transepidermal water loss and sebum production in skin cells and in vivo. ([Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33806157/))
- The combination of sucrose dilaurate and sucrose laurate suppressed HMGB1 release, melanin production, melanocyte dendricity, and melanosome transfer in vitro, and reduced the appearance of facial spots compared to vehicle in an 8-week human use test. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35014730/))
- Sucrose ester in an ibuprofen hydrogel increased skin hydration and ibuprofen penetration more intensely than a gel without sucrose ester without causing greater alterations in the stratum corneum structure in hairless mice. ([Pharmaceutical Development and Technology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20715904/))
- Topical application of the nonsugar fraction of brown sugar prevented chronic UVB-induced skin thickness increases, elasticity loss, wrinkles, pigmentation, and vascular changes in melanin-possessing hairless mice, which may be mediated by inhibiting MMP-2 and VEGF expression. ([Journal of Natural Medicines, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19050991/))
- Hydrolyzed corn starch containing maltotetraose activated the NRF2 pathway, upregulated antioxidant-responsive genes, increased NRF2 protein expression and nuclear translocation, and reduced reactive oxygen species levels in human keratinocytes exposed to oxidative stress. ([PloS One, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42361126/))
- Topical papain treatment may slightly decrease pain within 30 minutes in humans stung by Chrysaora chinensis compared to placebo. ([Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26827260/))
- Reflux extraction of Carica papaya leaves yielded higher antioxidant capacity and superior in vitro wound-healing activities including fibroblast proliferation, cell migration, and collagen synthesis in human skin fibroblasts compared to ultrasonic-assisted extraction and agitation. ([Molecules, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31991676/))
- Carica papaya leaf extracts obtained via supercritical fluid and conventional methods demonstrated antioxidant and cytoprotective effects on skin fibroblasts against oxidative stress, driven by their respective lipophilic and hydrophilic constituents. ([Molecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33803330/))
- Topical application of a 2% cream containing combined fruit extracts for 56 days significantly reduced wrinkle depth by 11.5%, length by 10.07%, and area by 29.55% in 21 female subjects compared to a placebo. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26203268/))
- A topical cream containing 4% Ficus carica fruit extract applied to the cheeks of human volunteers for 8 weeks significantly decreased skin melanin, trans-epidermal water loss, and sebum, and significantly increased skin hydration compared to a base control. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25593393/))
- Treatment with 5% black fig leaf cream exhibited significantly higher anti-inflammatory activity, increased collagen production, angiogenesis, and re-epithelialization, and reduced inflammatory cell density compared to control groups in rat excisional skin wounds. ([Inflammopharmacology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40448818/))
- Co-culturing mesenchymal stem cells and human keratinocytes on nylon66 electrospun scaffolds loaded with Beta vulgaris extract enhanced cell proliferation and promoted epithelial differentiation compared to mono-cell culturing. ([Materials Science & Engineering. C, Materials for Biological Applications, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28415512/))
- An aqueous extract of Beta vulgaris reduced lipid accumulation and reactive oxygen species in human HaCaT keratinocyte cells treated with palmitic/oleic acids or hydrogen peroxide. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42278345/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, this powder-to-foam cleanser is highly regarded for its gentle exfoliation and ability to leave skin feeling soft and hydrated without stripping. Users appreciate the convenient travel-friendly packaging. However, many find the product to be expensive for the quantity provided and express concerns about the environmental impact of the single-use sachets.

- Liked: Travel-friendly packaging (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Low cost-effectiveness (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective deep cleanse (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Non-stripping finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Wasteful packaging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Scent preferences (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too gentle for some (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your enzyme powder cleanser as part of your PM weekly routine. Start by using it once a week and build up slowly if your skin is happy.
- Place this step after your regular cleanser and before applying your hydrating toner. Follow the weekly routine order for the best results.
- Mix the powder with a little water in your hands to create a soft foam. Gently massage onto your face and avoid rubbing too hard.
- Apply the enzyme powder cleanser on slightly damp skin to help activate the formula evenly. Make sure your face is clean before applying.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Do a patch test first and do not combine this with strong acids on the same night.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2d8db6e67371d665a6a7736b5ed5d762.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does SKINFOOD Black Sugar Perfect Enzyme Powder Wash work for acne-prone skin?

This product works for acne-prone skin, though other cleansers fit it better. It is unlikely to cause irritation and includes soothing ingredients, but it lacks specific ingredients to target breakouts. Acne-prone skin needs products that safely address blemishes with ingredients like niacinamide and licorice root extract while providing gentle cleansing and exfoliation.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12535284/), [Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/)

### Which ingredients make this cleanser a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Allantoin and betaine help calm your acne-prone skin, while papain and lactobionic acid provide gentle exfoliation to keep it smooth. However, because this is an average fit, acne-prone skin needs a cleanser with targeted blemish-fighting ingredients like niacinamide or licorice root extract alongside soothing and gentle components to truly thrive.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12535284/), [Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/)

### What does Black Sugar Extract do for acne-prone skin?

Black sugar extract helps hydrate and smooth acne-prone skin while assisting in managing blemish-causing bacteria by reducing excess moisture in pores. However, because high sugar levels can sometimes impair skin recovery or irritate sensitive skin, products for this skin type typically need balancing ingredients like soothing agents and gentle antibacterial compounds to keep the skin calm and clear.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23762853/), [Molecules, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33096785/)

### What does Corn Starch do for acne-prone skin?

Corn starch is generally safe for acne-prone skin because it helps minimize friction and protects the skin barrier without clogging pores or fueling irritation. It is unlikely to cause breakouts, though acne-prone skin also benefits from ingredients that gently clear pores and balance oil.

### Where does this cleanser go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This cleanser fits into your routine as a weekly exfoliating step used once a week, though people who tolerate it well may carefully use it more often. To truly tackle acne and breakouts, acne-prone skin needs targeted blemish-fighting ingredients and deeper treatments rather than just a basic wash.

### Can I use this cleanser with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this enzyme powder cleanser in your routine, but apply your retinol afterward in your PM routine to avoid irritation since the cleanser provides gentle exfoliation. Acne-prone skin works best with products that specifically target breakouts and blemishes.
Sources: [Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25876142/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can start using this enzyme powder cleanser once a week, and if your skin tolerates it well and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often. While it helps calm your skin with soothing ingredients like allantoin and betaine, this type of skin needs targeted ingredients like salicylic acid to properly manage acne and breakouts.

### Can this cleanser clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for your acne-prone skin, as it contains soothing allantoin and betaine that help keep the experience gentle. However, because it lacks ingredients specifically targeted for blemishes and breakouts, acne-prone skin needs a cleanser that includes targeted blemish-fighting ingredients and clarifying actives.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12535284/), [Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/)

### Is this cleanser fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [By Wishtrend Green Tea & Enzyme Powder Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/by-wishtrend/green-tea-and-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — $15.80 at Amazon
- [Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — $80.00 at Amazon
- [HISTOLAB Soft Deep Cleansing Enzyme Powder Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/histolab/soft-deep-cleansing-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — $25.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in United States has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Zea Mays Starch, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Diglycerin, Betaine, Allantoin, Maltodextrin, Papain, Water, Iron Oxides Ci 77492, Lactobionic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Sucrose, Ficus Carica Fruit Extract, Beta Vulgaris Root Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Iron Oxides Ci 77491, Iron Oxides Ci 77499, Glycine, Serine, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, Leucine, Alanine, Lysine, Arginine, Tyrosine, Phenylalanine, Valine, Proline, Threonine, Isoleucine, Histidine, Cysteine, Methionine
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skinfood/black-sugar-perfect-enzyme-powder-wash/for/acne-prone-skin