DMK Enzyme Therapy in Birmingham

Introduction

DMK Enzyme Therapy (named after cosmetic chemist Danne Montague‑King) is a professional in‑clinic skin treatment designed to improve skin function. It is sometimes called a “skin workout” because the proprietary mask hardens and contracts, causing the facial muscles and blood vessels to pulse and creating a temporary “plasmatic effect” after removal【198108743909362†L218-L254】. The treatment uses transfer‑messenger enzymes—proteins that catalyse biochemical reactions in the skin—to stimulate circulation, lymphatic drainage and detoxification【198108743909362†L218-L254】. While DMK has been available for decades, its recent popularity is fuelled by celebrity endorsements and viral social media clips【198108743909362†L242-L246】.

How does it work?

According to DMK practitioners, the mask contains enzyme complexes, amino acids, proteins, botanical extracts and minerals【198108743909362†L218-L231】. When applied, it hardens over 45 minutes, constricting muscles and compressing superficial blood vessels. This stimulates blood flow and lymphatic drainage, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the skin and removing waste products【198108743909362†L250-L255】. The pulsation and reddening (plasmatic effect) visible after removal reflect increased microcirculation and usually subside within 30 minutes【198108743909362†L250-L280】. CAS MediSpa describes four primary objectives of the treatment: remove dead skin cells and impurities, rebuild the skin, protect it and maintain skin health【310276804937982†L76-L84】. The mask is also said to “exercise” facial muscles, dilate facial blood vessels and promote lymphatic drainage【310276804937982†L86-L108】.

Benefits and limitations

Practitioners claim DMK Enzyme Therapy can:

Improve microcirculation and lymphatic drainage【198108743909362†L264-L267】.
Assist with acne, pigmentation and rosacea as part of a wider treatment plan【198108743909362†L264-L267】.
Leave the skin soft and glowing immediately after treatment【198108743909362†L264-L280】.
However, dermatologists interviewed by Marie Claire caution that high‑quality peer‑reviewed evidence is lacking, and most benefits are temporary and cosmetic【198108743909362†L275-L281】. They note that claims of “detoxifying” the skin have no strong scientific backing【198108743909362†L275-L280】. The treatment is not suitable for people with certain vascular conditions, active skin infections or severe eczema【198108743909362†L293-L296】.

Who is it for?

DMK Enzyme Therapy may be suitable for clients seeking immediate improvement in skin appearance and texture. It is generally safe for most skin types but should be avoided by individuals with vascular disorders, severe skin conditions, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and anyone under 18. UK legislation prohibits administering cosmetic treatments to under‑18s【632697257834661†L137-L144】, and the forthcoming licensing scheme will place controls on higher‑risk procedures【126037729884351†L115-L140】. Always consult a qualified practitioner.

Treatment process

Consultation: Your practitioner assesses your skin concerns and medical history.
Preparation: The skin is cleansed, and a pre‑treatment solution may be applied.
Enzyme mask application: The mask is applied over the face, neck and décolletage. It gradually hardens and causes a pulsating sensation lasting about 45 minutes【310276804937982†L123-L138】.
Removal: The mask is softened and removed. Temporary reddening and “plasmatic” lines are normal【198108743909362†L250-L280】.
Post‑treatment products: A hydrating mist or oil may be applied.

Aftercare

Although DMK aftercare protocols vary by clinic, general guidance includes:

Avoid touching or picking at the skin and do not apply makeup for 12 hours to allow the skin to breathe.
Use gentle cleansers and avoid exfoliants, retinols or acids for at least 72 hours (similar to chemical peel aftercare guidelines【501766927697178†L297-L300】).
Stay hydrated and protect the skin from sun exposure with SPF 30+【501766927697178†L304-L307】.
Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, hot baths and excessive alcohol for 24 hours【501766927697178†L290-L293】.

FAQs

Is DMK Enzyme Therapy scientifically proven? There is limited peer‑reviewed evidence for long‑term benefits. Dermatologists state that most effects (improved glow and microcirculation) are temporary and cosmetic【198108743909362†L275-L281】. The mask’s formulation is proprietary, and ingredients are not publicly disclosed【198108743909362†L227-L231】.

How many treatments do I need? Results are noticeable after one session, but a series of treatments may yield better improvements. Consult your practitioner for a personalised plan.

Does it hurt? You may feel tingling, throbbing or itching as the mask hardens and pulsates. This is generally tolerable and subsides once the mask is removed【198108743909362†L300-L305】.

Can it be combined with other treatments? It can complement other facials or skin procedures, but treatments should be scheduled appropriately. Always follow practitioner advice and allow sufficient time between treatments.

References

Marie Claire explains that DMK Enzyme Therapy uses transfer messenger enzymes; its mask hardens and produces a pulsating sensation, improving microcirculation and lymphatic drainage【198108743909362†L218-L255】 and leaving a temporary plasmatic effect【198108743909362†L250-L280】. The article notes there is no high‑quality evidence for long‑term benefits and emphasises the need for trained practitioners【198108743909362†L275-L296】.
CAS MediSpa describes the treatment’s objectives: removing dead skin cells, rebuilding, protecting and maintaining skin health【310276804937982†L76-L84】 and details muscle exercise, blood vessel dilation and lymphatic drainage【310276804937982†L86-L108】.
UK law bans cosmetic injectables for under‑18s【632697257834661†L137-L144】 and a new licensing scheme will regulate non‑surgical procedures【126037729884351†L115-L140】.
Aftercare recommendations mirror general post‑treatment advice for injectables and peels: avoid touching, exercise, alcohol, makeup and sun exposure for 24–72 hours【501766927697178†L290-L307】.