SNP-based DNA analysis offers a unique and completely novel approach to personalised skincare. This would involve a relatively straightforward collection of swab samples and rapid sequencing for the subsequent comparison with the information in the database. Assembly of the personal profile would highlight the specific requirements for the uniquely tailored topical product to enhance the individual characteristics and ameliorate the undesirable problems.
We have established an extensive database of thousands of SNPs that are detected within the pool of genes responsible for skin phenotypes and function. This captured information on the genes allows for creation of eight characteristics highlighting the unique cosmetic requirements for each skin type alongside the established or predicted effects of the SNPs. One of the crucial
benefits of the SNP-based analysis is that it would allow distinguishing between the cause and the effect of a particular problem. For example, inflammation is associated with both sunburns and xerosis, SNP profile could help to establish if the inflammation is the result of these problems or the factor driving them, for example leading to much more sensitive skin.
The factors involved in remodelling of the extracellular matrix and maintenance of proteoglycans, gradual loss of these activities results in wrinkling and sagging of the skin as well as proper function of hair follicle.
The factors involved in scavenging of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as antioxidant enzymes. This is particularly relevant to addressing the adverse effects of the environment such as air pollution and the ways of detoxification of the skin.
The factors responsible for susceptibility of the skin to damage and sensitive skin conditions such as acne or melasma, also propensity to efficient wound healing.
The group comprised of the factors responsible for the relative darkening of the skin, helping guiding the products to enhance the natural hue and saturation of darker skin. These interesting characteristics are frequently linked to identical SNPs between different skin types and could also contribute to guiding the requirements of the skin in the persons in mixed ethnic backgrounds.
The group comprised of the factors responsible for the lighter skin phenotypes. These characteristics are crucial to guiding the applications of sun protection products and the products enhancing the natural hue and saturation of lighter skin. Within this group, number of SNPs moreover associates with particularly sensitive skin, therefore stronger UVR protection could be recommended.
The factors responsible for tanning abilities, which could be potentially modulated as part of the beauty regime leading to better ability to capture the beneficial effects of the sun. Skin-Type 5 and 6 can also inform about the inherent capacity towards synthesis of vitamin D and DNA repair, therefore help to establish the optimal requirements of sun exposure or vitamin D supplementation.
The factors associated with potential pigmentation problems resulting in uneven skin tone such as solar lentigines, melasma and vitiligo. These could guide the local applications of topical products that could conceal or even reverse some of the changes.
The group involved in the maintenance of skin barrier and regulation of epidermal water loss. Diminished activity of these genes results in decreased hydration and xerosis, skin with this phenotype would require specific treatment to prevent it.