Which of the following substances are responsible for dissolving and breaking down large molecules into smaller ones?

Enzymes are protein-based catalysts that facilitate biochemical reactions in the body, including the process of breaking down large molecules into smaller, more manageable components. They achieve this by lowering the activation energy needed for chemical reactions to occur. In the context of skincare and esthetics, enzymes can help in exfoliating the skin by breaking down the keratin and other proteins that hold dead skin cells together, allowing for smoother, more radiant skin.

Acids can also break down substances but tend to do so through chemical reactions that can involve neutralization or pH changes, often resulting in different types of byproducts. Emulsifiers primarily serve to mix oil and water-based substances but are not responsible for breaking down large molecules. Solvents are substances that dissolve solutes, yet they do not necessarily contribute to the breakdown of complex molecules into simpler forms; they may only aid in the dissolution process. Enzymes are thus the most effective and specific agents for catalyzing the breakdown of complex biological molecules in various applications, including skincare treatments.