Collagenase, the enzyme involved in collagen breakdown and remodelling.

Try L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Complete SPF 30 Day Lotion ( $17; drugstores), which has Pro-Retinol A and SPF 30 (a plus, as sun exposure can accelerate collagen breakdown).

For example, the ones that indicate your collagen breakdown or wrinkling capacity.

Chemically related to vitamin A, retinoids such as retinol, Atralin, Differin, Retin A, and Tazarac slow down collagen breakdown, says Jacob.

IN THE FUTURE, IT MAY BE POSSIBLE to stop collagen breakdown before it starts.

It thus follows that collagen breakdown (and protein breakdown in general) should be prevented by all possible means.

La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Cream A thick, rich cream that enhances the skin's elasticity and prevents collagen breakdown.

Your 30s Defend your face Take decades of environmental exposure, add a quickening rate of collagen breakdown, and behold: In your 30s your face may show more sagging, fine lines, and early wrinkles than you'd like, says Bobby Buka, MD, a New York City dermatologist.