Enzymes that are part of a process that causes the breakdown of amino acids and proteins in skin (Source: www.chemistry-info.net/). There is research showing that proteases, when applied topically to skin, can reduce the visible scaling associated with dry, flaky skin (Source: Archives of Dermatological Research, November 2001, pages 500–507). Whether proteases can be of benefit for wound healing when applied topically is unclear (Source: Experimental Dermatology, October 2001, pages 337–348).