Skin Care

I Had My DNA Tested for Skin Aging. Here's What I Learned

Bespoke beauty advice with the swab of a cheek

by Katie McCarthy | COMMENT

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Skin DNA Testing: How It Works When you get your HomeDNA Skin Care kit, you start by registering your kit's barcode online, adding your name, email address and other info. Elsewhere in the box, you'll find four cotton swabs.

To collect your DNA sample, you rub each of the swabs on the inside of your cheek for several seconds. After that, you drop your swabs in a prepaid envelope and ship it to HomeDNA's lab.

HomeDNA will send you an email when they receive your samples; about six weeks later, you get an email with your DNA report.

This DNA test looks at several genes to paint a picture of your skin and how it will likely age. It also measures your genetic makeup against the global average in seven categories: collagen quality; skin elasticity; fine lines and wrinkles; sun protection; pigmentation; skin antioxidants; and skin sensitivity.

In each of those categories, your results show where your genes fall on a spectrum ranging from "optimal" to "non-ideal." Your report also contains personalized recommendations for how to best care for your skin using topical ingredients, supplements and professional treatments.

SEE NEXT PAGE: My Skin DNA Test: The Good

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