Matrix metalloproteinase

Once there, they act like microscopic scissors.

They activate enzymes called matrix metalloproteinases, or MMPs, which literally chew up and degrade your collagen and elastin fibers.

So while you are sitting there not getting a sunburn, the UVA rays are quietly snipping away the foundational support of your face, causing deep leathery wrinkles and triggering massive stubborn pigmentation from the inside out.

And here is the most critical, least understood fact about UVA rays.

And

then the second change is a family of enzymes called MMPs.

Military police.

MPs? No? MMPs?

I was going to try and get away with this one.

MMPs are matrix metalloproteinases.

But we'll call them MMPs for short, okay? And the normal job of MMPs is useful because they clear out worn collagen so that fresh collagen can replace it.

And in young skin, their activity is held in careful balance.

Once there, they act like microscopic scissors.

They activate enzymes called matrix metalloproteinases, or MMPs, which literally chew up and degrade your collagen and elastin fibers.

So while you are sitting there not getting a sunburn, the UVA rays are quietly snipping away the foundational support of your face, causing deep leathery wrinkles and triggering massive stubborn pigmentation from the inside out.

And here is the most critical, least understood fact about UVA rays.

That's a mouthful.

Let's call them MMPs.

Good call.

These MMP enzymes literally chew up and digest your collagen and elastin matrix.

Think back to when you were really stressed, going through a sickness or a divorce or a financial stressor.

Didn't your skin look a lot worse? Well, we're chronically stressed, and that cortisol activates enzymes called MMPs.

Remember that.

We're going to talk about it later.

But more concerningly, age alters the enzymatic balance in the wound bed.

It increases the presence of MMPs or matrix metalloproteinases.

Those are the enzymes that break down collagen, right?

Correct.

Healing is a balance of synthesis and degradation, so in older patients, the elevated MMPs mean degradation often outpaces synthesis.

Oh, wow.

This massive shift in the balance significantly increases the risk of wound dehiscence, and note the pronunciation there.