Natural skin care products are extremely popular, especially
now since the harmful effects of many chemicals are being revealed. Parabens,
formaldehyde, sodium laureth sulfate, petrolatum, and an alphabet soup of other
dangerous chemicals like BHA, BHT, PEGs, and DEA can all be found in cosmetics
and
skin care products. Some
of these substances have been linked to cancer and other life-threatening
conditions. Discerning customers are seeking effective products that contain
natural ingredients.
Plant-based compounds are more easily absorbed and more
efficiently utilized than chemical formulations. But combining natural
ingredients with scientific analysis can achieve the best results of all.
Companies using nutragenic technologies – DNA testing in conjunction with
natural supplements and vitamins -- are creating products that can slow or even
reverse the effects of aging.
Some people are naturally able to weather the years
gracefully, with few signs of aging. Others look older than their chronological
age.
While skin can be damaged by environmental factors such as sun exposure,
many times skin aging is caused by genetic predisposition.
The good news is
that, due to the human genome mapping project, five genes responsible for skin
health have been identified. By analyzing these genes, it may be possible to
find ways to boost their functioning and to keep skin young and healthy.
The following genes are targeted for analysis by premium
nutragenic companies:
-
Collagen Breakdown Gene
-
Superoxide Radical Defense Gene
-
Hydrogen Peroxide Free Radical Removal Gene
-
Detoxifying Gene
-
Inflammatory Gene
Each of these genes may be functioning at optimal capacity,
or it may possess small variants known as single nucleotide polymorphisms
(SNPs). A person may inherit one SNP on a gene, from one parent, or he or she
could have two SNPs located on a gene, one from each parent. If a gene has one
SNP, it will need to be targeted for extra supplementation in order to maximize
the gene's function. A gene possessing two SNPs needs even further
supplementation,
in order to raise levels of functioning.
The actual process is simple: a client will receive a
cheek-swab DNA testing kit. After laboratory results are analyzed, the company
will create unique skin care products containing supplements designed to
compensate for that particular client's genetic deficiencies. Separate sera may
be created for specific uses, ie, facial serum, a serum targeting delicate
tissues surrounding the eye, and a serum for problem areas such as heels,
hands, and elbows. These customized products will help to reduce wrinkle depth,
to increase skin firmness, to reduce redness and dryness, and to improve
overall skin tone and health. The product line can also include items such as a
cleanser designed to keep active ingredients in the serum working longer, and
moisturizers: a light moisturizer for the day that protects against UV damage,
and a more intense night cream that promotes healing and rejuvenation.
Research shows that clients using DNA-based skin products
experienced much better results than clients using a more general line of
products. After eight weeks of use, 70% of clients using dermagenic products
reported fewer wrinkles and improvements in skin tone and firmness.
By using trusted natural ingredients combined with
cutting-edge scientific knowledge, better skin care companies are
revolutionizing the way we think about skin health.