What is skin?
Your skin protects you from sunlight, microbes, pollution and water loss. It is made of layers that constantly renew, with new cells rising to replace old ones. Pigment cells produce melanin, which gives skin its color and absorbs some ultraviolet light. Antioxidant systems neutralize stress from sun and pollution, while barrier proteins help keep moisture in and irritants out. It is a busy, responsive organ.
How your genes play a role
Genes influence how much and what kind of melanin your skin makes, how it responds to the sun and how strong its natural barrier is. Some variants affect antioxidant enzymes that defend against everyday stress. These tendencies combine with sun exposure, skincare, climate, sleep and diet to shape how your skin looks and feels.
Knowing your skin's tendencies can make daily care more intentional. If your genes suggest higher sun sensitivity, sun protection may deserve special attention. If your barrier tends to be delicate, gentle products may suit you better. This insight can help you and your dermatologist choose routines with more confidence, so your skincare reflects your biology rather than trends. Over time, that can mean fewer wasted products and a calmer, more consistent routine.
What your report shows
Your Skin results are explained in plain language in your private EvoDNA account, alongside the other areas in your kit.
- PigmentationVariants that influence your skin tone and the type of melanin you produce.
- Sun sensitivityGenes linked to how your skin may respond to ultraviolet light.
- Antioxidant defenseHow your skin's natural enzymes may handle everyday oxidative stress.
- Barrier strengthVariants related to the proteins that hold moisture in your skin.
| Gene | What it does | Result |
|---|---|---|
| MC1R | Controls the switch between darker and lighter types of… | Typical |
| TYR | Makes tyrosinase, the key enzyme that starts melanin production. | Moderate effect |
| SLC45A2 | Helps transport materials needed for melanin production in pigment… | Typical |
Each result comes with a plain-language explanation and practical points to discuss with your clinician.
Illustration only. Your report reflects your own genetic results.
Genes we analyze
| Gene | Role |
|---|---|
| MC1R | Controls the switch between darker and lighter types of melanin and is linked to freckles and red hair. |
| TYR | Makes tyrosinase, the key enzyme that starts melanin production. |
| SLC45A2 | Helps transport materials needed for melanin production in pigment cells. |
| SOD2 | Produces an antioxidant enzyme that protects mitochondria from oxidative stress. |
| FLG | Makes filaggrin, a protein that helps form the skin barrier and keep it hydrated. |
Full panel: 14 genes
MC1R, OCA2, ASIP, HERC2, SLC45A2, KITLG, TYR, TYRP1, SOD2, CAT, GPX1, TGFB1, DNASE1L3, FLG
Putting results to use
Many people use their results as a starting point for conversations with their clinician about:
Broad spectrum sunscreen and shade are often discussed for every skin type.
Mild cleansers may help preserve your skin's natural barrier.
Regular moisturizing is commonly explored, especially for drier or sensitive skin.
A diet rich in fruit and vegetables provides antioxidants many people discuss for skin.
Questions
Can genes tell me my skin type?
They can show tendencies, such as sun sensitivity or barrier strength. Your skin's current condition is best assessed by a dermatologist.
Does darker skin need sun protection?
Melanin offers some protection, but all skin tones can be affected by ultraviolet light. Dermatologists generally recommend sun care for everyone.
Will my results change my skincare?
They may help you prioritize, for example focusing on sun protection or barrier care. A dermatologist can help tailor a routine.
Only interested in this area? The Skin Health & Aging Genetic Report is available on its own for $99.00.
