Personalized skin care has become a market trend in the beauty industry. Many of us want to know the best way to care for our skin. With easy access to skin care DNA analysis kits, we might think DNA knowledge is a targeted solution, but you won’t learn much more than what you probably already know by looking in the mirror or at your parents’ skin, visiting a dermatologist, or assessing your lifestyle.
Our genetic makeup does impact the way our skin ages. Some studies suggest that 50 to 60 percent of how we age can be linked to genes. But a recent study indicates that it’s gene expression patterns that influence the health and beauty of our skin. In the study, women with increased activity in genes associated with basic biologic processes such as DNA repair, cell replication, response to oxidative stress, and protein metabolism had younger looking skin. Lead author of the study, Alexa B. Kimball, MD, MPH, a dermatologist and President and CEO of Harvard Medical Faculty Physicians at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center said, “It’s not just the genes you are born with, but which ones turn on and off over time.”
During the study, researchers collected data at the molecular, cellular and tissue level from sun-exposed skin (face and forearm) and sun-protected skin (buttocks). Their work confirmed that ultraviolent (UV) exposure is a main driver and accelerator of skin aging. Even if you have healthy genes, when you expose your skin often to UV rays the damage will be done.
In fact, proper personalized skin care may rely more on lifestyle than DNA knowledge because lifestyle choices are within your control. We suggest you personalize your skin care by investing time and money in these lifestyle choices that benefit your skin:
Hydrate – drink water and apply face creams that work on a cellular level day and night
Sleep – get enough sleep daily to let skin rejuvenate naturally
Eat right – dark, leafy greens, vegetables and fruits contain antioxidants, add protein for collagen
Exercise – detoxify the body, stimulate the lymphatic system, relieve stress
Avoid UV rays – apply sun screen when outdoors, wear a hat and clothing to cover exposed skin
If you want to resolve a skin care curiosity through a DNA test, before making any purchase be careful about how any company uses your DNA sample since it will contain information about your health and heritage. Bridget Small, consumer education specialist at the Federal Trade Commission, recommends that you read privacy policies, learn how information will be used and shared, and select protective options rather than the default options on a company website. “When you read a privacy policy, find out what information a company will collect and why; how the company will control the personal information it collects; how it will use the information, and whether it provides information to third parties. If you have questions or concerns about a company’s privacy policy, contact the company.” Remember that policies can change at any time.
While DNA testing kits may help you discover some skin sensitivities, be aware that most anti-aging skin treatments are based on the well-known mechanics of how skin ages and are useful for everybody, including men. With YASOU Greek-inspired skin care products you won’t need to worry about market trends. Our luxe wellness approach lets you enjoy the skin you’re in.