The defining exfoliating active.
Papain is a proteolytic enzyme derived from papaya. When activated in water, it helps break down proteinaceous material that helps hold accumulated dead cells at the skin surface.
This provides enzymatic exfoliation rather than abrasive polishing.
For Chris & Alley, I would describe it as:
“Helps loosen accumulated dead surface cells for smoother, clearer-looking skin.”
rather than saying it literally dissolves living skin.
Allantoin
A soothing and skin-conditioning ingredient that helps maintain comfort while the enzyme and cleansing system are working.
It is particularly valuable in a formula designed for repeated exfoliating use.
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
A mild syndet cleansing agent that creates a soft foam and helps remove sebum, impurities and daily build-up.
“Syndet” simply means synthetic detergent cleanser, used as an alternative to traditional alkaline soap.
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Another mild cleansing surfactant that supports effective cleansing while maintaining a gentler skin feel.
pHformula specifically identifies both surfactants alongside Papain and Allantoin as the key formula components.
Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate
A mild amino-acid-derived cleansing agent found in the current complete ingredient declaration.
It complements the primary surfactants without turning the formula into an aggressive foaming cleanser.
Black Iron Oxide / CI 77499
A mineral pigment included in the powder formula and listed by pHformula as a key ingredient.
I would not give CI 77499 an exaggerated detoxifying or oil-absorbing claim. The manufacturer does not explain a specific therapeutic function for it on the current product page, so it is safest to retain it as part of the mineral powder system rather than presenting it as the exfoliating active.

Full Ingredient List:
Zea Mays Starch, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Potassium Laurate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Allantoin, Maltodextrin, Papain, CI 77499.

Dispense a small amount of powder into the palm of your hand.
Add water and work the powder between the hands until it transforms into a light foam.
Apply to the face, neck and décolleté using gentle circular movements.
Rinse thoroughly with water.
pHformula currently permits use morning and evening.
For a more intensive enzyme treatment
Activate the powder with water and apply evenly to the skin.
Leave on for up to 10 minutes as a mask, then rinse thoroughly.
For reactive skin or clients already using several active products, frequency can be adjusted according to tolerance rather than assuming that more frequent exfoliation will always produce a better result.

All skin types where tolerated
Dull skin
Rough or uneven texture
Accumulated surface build-up
Hyperkeratinised skin
Combination skin
Oily skin
Excess surface sebum
Congested-looking pores
Comedonal or blemish-prone skin
Skin lacking radiance
Clients wanting exfoliation without a physical scrub