This decreased fullness is due primarily to either a decrease in new collagen synthesis, or to an excessive degradation of existing collagen. While some SNP variations predispose to decreased synthesis of new collagen, other SNP variations predispose to excessive degradation of natural collagen through over-activation of otherwise naturally-present, collagen-remodeling enzymes (i.e., namely matrix metalloproteinases, or “MMPs”).  Other SNP variations can lead to the activation of inflammatory pathways which degrade the firming structural components of the skin.

Collagen is the primary structural element in the dermis.  A natural remodeling of old collagen with new firmness and fullness of skin will be marked by an absence of fine lines and wrinkles. Customers whose SNP variations predispose decreased skin firmness may show one of several pronounced signs of aging, including, in increasing order of negative impact:

• Loss of skin surface flexibility and elasticity
• Fine lines or shallow wrinkles
• Deeper wrinkles with loss of firmness
• Major sagging of skin, most noted in the cheeks and neck