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1 Skin ABCDABCDABCDABC

2 Genetic predisposition study This report details the results obtained in the analysis (genotyping) of genetic variants, called polymorphisms, which are found in your DNA. It also includes a series of recommendations proposed by specialists in each area of interest. The human genome includes a multitude of polymorphisms of your genes. The genotype is the genetic information present in each person, or in other words, the information contained in their chromosomes. The genotype and the environmental factors that have an impact on DNA determine the individual characteristics of each person, namely, their phenotype. Genotyping analysis is used to determine the specific variations that exist in each person. This study is designed to select the most relevant polymorphisms for you based on many scientific publications. is not a diagnostic tool; however, it does offer information about your genetic predisposition to certain diseases or conditions. Professionals (working in medicine, nutrition, sport, etc.) can use the results obtained to help you to change certain lifestyle habits to improve your health or to attain certain objectives. The information in the report does not replace in any way medical advice or advice from other specialists. Page 3

3 Genes analysed and summary of the results obtained A list of the genes analysed and the genotype found in your DNA is displayed below. Your genotype is represented by two letters, corresponding to the alleles obtained for genetic variant analysed. You have inherited one of these alleles from your father and the other from your mother. Gene Your genotype Gene Your genotype CAT (1) CC GPX1 (1) GG IRF4 (1) TT AQP3 (1) CC NQO1 (1) AA IL6 (1) CC MC1R (1) TT KIF3A (1) CC STAT6 (1) TT SOD2 (1) AA NFE2L2 (1) TT Chr.11q13.5 (1) TT Page 4

4 Summary of the genetic results and conclusions The conclusions obtained from the results of your genetic analysis are summarised below: Study Oxidative damage to the skin Oxidative skin damage caused by injuries and inflammation Skin cell aging Skin pigmentation Hyperpigmentation of the skin Skin elasticity Skin hydration Wrinkles Freckles Inflammation processes Acne Dermatological disorders caused by dehydration. Sunburn Atopic dermatitis Atopic dermatitis in children Atopic dermatitis and asthma Atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis Interpretation of results and recommendations The following sections describe the various aspects studied, as well as the risk/benefit results stemming from the analysis of genetic variants presented in this study. These results should always be considered with respect to averages for the general population, although this inherently presents certain risks/benefits. Page 5

5 Biology Oxidative damage to the skin The normal, physiological ageing process is associated, among other things, with a rise in cellular oxidation due to increased production of free radicals. Genetically, certain skin types have less capacity for defence from the action of these radicals and so will show a greater tendency towards early ageing, independently of other ageing inducing factors such as age, sun, tobacco, poor nutrition, chronic disease and pollution. High risk of suffering oxidative skin damage. Follow recommendations to prevent premature skin ageing, which can be found in the section below. UV protection Oxidative skin damage caused by injuries and inflammation Repeated or chronic inflammatory processes (in both skin diseases and general or systemic diseases) cause the production of free radicals to increase, these being added to those produced by normal ageing and accelerating its progress. This study is related with the skin's capacity to protect itself from this extra damage. Page 6

6 Average capacity for improved protection against oxidative skin damage caused by injuries and inflammatory processes. Skin cell aging Normal or physiological skin ageing is a complex phenomenon conditioned by various factors, some endogenous or internal, such as chronological ageing due to the passage of time (which is genetically determined) and others due to various external factors (sun, toxic substances, diseases, etc.). The passage of time produces chromosome abnormalities in the DNA of cell nuclei, and biological, biochemical and molecular changes. This all leads to the steady deterioration of cell functions, ending in their death. High risk of presenting poor resistance to cellular aging of the skin. Follow recommendations to prevent premature skin ageing, which can be found in the section below. UV protection Reduction of collagen breakage Skin pigmentation Melanin protects the skin, absorbs the sun's ultraviolet radiation and blocks the synthesis of free radicals, preventing the appearance of important skin lesions (such as melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer), and protects against photoageing, but it cannot prevent normal skin ageing or protect it during long exposure to the sun. So tanning is a defence mechanism of the skin against sun damage: the more and better coloured the skin is, the better it is protected from negative effects of sunlight. Page 7

7 High risk of not having adequate pigmentation to protect the skin from sunlight. Follow recommendations to avoid the damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can be found in the section below. UV protection Sunscreen Collagen synthesis Hyperpigmentation of the skin Certain skin types have a tendency to excess melanin production in certain zones, most frequently the face, with the consequent appearance of stains. This is stimulated and increased by exposure to sun. These stains should not be confused with those caused by photoaging or chronological ageing (from the passage of time), which should have different treatments, nor with moles (nevi). In the case of appearance of pigmented scars on the skin, assessment by a dermatologist is recommended. High risk of skin hyperpigmentation. In most cases, skin hyperpigmentation is a disorder which is difficult to treat. For this reason, prevention is essential, avoiding excessive exposure to the sun at times of maximum solar radiation, wearing hats and sunscreens with a high protection factor daily. Numerous cosmetics are used to reduce excessive pigmentation, but none is reliably guaranteed to reduce pigmentation in all types of skin. In general, the best results are obtained using several at the same time. Choice of a depigmentation product will depend on the type of skin and type of pigmentation. In general, producing irritation should be avoided, because this could then cause further, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Sunscreen Page 8

8 Beauty Skin elasticity Collagen is a protein essential for the elasticity of all tissues in the human body and for their regeneration. It is also found in the skin, bones, cartilages, ligaments, tendons, blood vessels, etc. It is the major component of the dermis, offering resistance to traction, firmness, elasticity and flexibility to the skin. It plays fundamental in maintaining the skin s protective function against trauma. High risk of skin elasticity loss. General care: good hygiene, a balanced, varied diet including fruit and vegetables, drinking a sufficient amount of water, avoiding alcohol and tobacco consumption, lowering exposure to the sun and taking regular, moderate physical exercise. Regular use of the right moisturiser for your type of skin helps it keep its elasticity and smooth appearance. Collagen synthesis Reduction of collagen breakage Increased epidermal lipid production Skin hydration Skin hydration helps it to keep its elasticity and protective barrier function. The outermost skin layer, the stratum corneum, has a proportion of water between 10 and 20%. Water levels below 10% make the skin more fragile, rough and less shiny. It is important to highlight that both sudden temperature changes and prolonged exposure to the sun causes loss of skin hydration, leading to cracks, flaking or tightness. Page 9

9 High risk of losing adequate skin hydration levels. General care: good hygiene, a balanced, varied diet including fruit and vegetables, drinking a sufficient amount of water, avoiding alcohol and tobacco consumption, lowering exposure to the sun and taking regular, moderate physical exercise. Regular use of suitable moisturisers adapted to the skin type (to age, sensitivity, allergies, etc.). A correct moisturiser can complement the lipid (fat) function in the epidermis and restore its role as a barrier, allowing the skin to maintain its natural renewal and peeling process. Moisturiser Increased epidermal lipid production Calming Antipruritic Wrinkles With time, skin loses collagen, which makes epithelial structures weaker, and skin thinner and more easily damaged. Wrinkles and signs of flaccidity also begin to appear. High risk of more, deeper wrinkles appearing. Use of cosmetics containing retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), because their effectiveness in removing fine wrinkles, reducing expression lines and making skin firmer and smoother has been demonstrated. Nowadays these are considered first-line treatment products for photoaged skin. Collagen synthesis Reduction of collagen breakage Increased epidermal lipid production Page 10

10 Freckles The phototype of fair skin, red hair, and predisposition to develop freckles cannot tan adequately, so has less defensive capacity from ultraviolet solar radiation and a greater predisposition to damage secondary to solar exposure, particularly including melanoma skin cancer. High probability of freckles appearing. Follow recommendations to avoid the damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can be found in the section below. UV protection Sunscreen Page 11

11 Health Inflammation processes Repeated inflammation of the skin causes oxidative damage by production of free radicals and may cause increased flaccidity, sagging skin and the appearance of wrinkles. High risk of developing inflammatory processes. General care: good hygiene, a balanced, varied diet including fruit and vegetables and drinking a sufficient amount of water. Regular use of the right moisturiser for your kind of skin. Daily hydration of the skin helps maintain the barrier function of the outer layer of skin (epidermis) from irritants and toxic substances which could set off inflammatory mechanisms. Moisturiser Anti-inflammatory Calming Acne Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder of the pilosebaceous follicle (unit comprising a hair follicle and a sebaceous gland) which affects 80% of people to a greater or lesser extent at some time in their lives. It may appear at any age but is most frequent in adolescence. Its exact cause is unknown, but there is a genetic predisposition to it, and different environmental, hormonal, emotional, and cosmetic factors are known to influence its appearance. Page 12

12 High risk of acne appearing. Skin hygiene: acne is not caused by poor hygiene or dirty skin. Daily cleaning with unaggressive soap products which remove excess grease without irritating or damaging the top skin layer is recommended. Multiple products exist for cleaning this type of skin: Natural soap: widely used, but not recommendable, because they often make the skin too dry. Synthetic detergents or soaps: these carry out adequate cleaning with very good tolerance. They exist as dermatological soaps or bars, similar to traditional soap, and as cleaning gels, emulsions and milks. After cleaning: Tonics: these can be beneficial by making surface grease soluble and closing pores. Exfoliants: these are advisable in most cases, because they also help to remove grease from the skin and reduce the stratum corneum (outer layer of dead skin cells). There are products suitable for acne treatment which can be used without medical prescription and which have been incorporated in many cosmetics (milks, gels, cleaners, exfoliants, moisturisers, etc.). They may be suitable for skin with a tendency towards acne, with an excess of seborrhea and dilated pores. Moisturisers, make-up, etc. should be oil-free and not comedogenic. When acne scarring appears, the treatment will depend on the nature of the scars, their seriousness and type of skin. Seeing a dermatologist who will prescribe the most suitable treatment for each case is recommended. Dermatological disorders caused by dehydration. The outer skin layer's barrier function is reduced when the skin is excessively dry (dehydrated), making the appearance of dermatological disorders highly probable. Certain types of skin genetically lack certain natural moisturising components which favours the appearance of dermatitis or eczema (outbreaks of irritation, flaking, itching and redness) and hypersensitivity making skin in tolerant to multiple external products (creams, cosmetics, perfumes, dyes, etc.) eczema of the hands and both irritational and allergic general eczema. High risk of developing dermatological disorders caused by loss of skin hydration. Page 13

13 General care: correct hygiene, eat a balanced and varied diet, containing fruit and vegetables, drink sufficient quantities of water, avoid alcohol and tobacco and reduce exposure to sunlight. Regular use of suitable moisturisers adapted to the skin type (to age, sensitivity, allergies, etc.). A correct moisturiser can complement the lipid (fat) function in the epidermis and restore its role as a barrier, allowing the skin to maintain its natural renewal and peeling process. Moisturiser Increased epidermal lipid production Anti-inflammatory Calming Antipruritic Sunburn Sunburn, especially at an early age (childhood to adolescence), is a very important factor in the development of skin cancer (melanoma), so protection from solar radiation is essential. High risk of suffering burns due to exposure to the sun. Follow recommendations to avoid the damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can be found in the section below. UV protection Sunscreen Atopic dermatitis Atopic skin is characterised by a reduction in intercellular lipids (fats), increased water loss and a reduction in water retention capacity which hampers the barrier function of the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin). Page 14

14 High risk of developing atopic dermatitis. Follow the general recommendations for atopic dermatitis, which can be found in the section below. Moisturiser Anti-inflammatory Calming Antipruritic Atopic dermatitis in children Atopic dermatitis is a skin disease affecting up to 10-20% of children. It is a cronic, long-term condition, characterised by dry, flakey, irritable skin with repeated outbreaks of intense itching, reddening and inflammation. Atopic skin is characterised by a decrease in intercellular lipids (fat), increased water loss and decreased water-retention capacity, which causes alterations to the epidermis barrier function (outer skin layer). High risk of developing atopic dermatitis during early childhood. Follow the general recommendations for atopic dermatitis, which can be found in the section below. Moisturiser Anti-inflammatory Calming Antipruritic Atopic dermatitis and asthma Atopy is a hereditary condition which predisposes towards the development of hypersensitivity to environmental allergens (substances which cause allergy) and this will cause certain diseases called atopic such as atopic dermatitis, extrinsic (allergic) asthma, allergic rhinitis. Many people develop all three disorders at some time. Page 15

15 It is estimated that around 30% of children with mild atopic dermatitis will develop asthma or allergic rhinitis in their adolescence or youth. These figures rise to 70% in cases of severe dermatitis. It seems that the damage to the skin of people with atopic dermatitis plays a fundamental role in the later development of rhinitis and asthma. By not acting as a protective barrier, the skin allows allergens to enter the body and come into contact with the immune system, which favours allergy in other organs such as the nose and respiratory tract. Asthma is a chronic (long-term) respiratory disease characterised by the inflammation and reversible narrowing of the airways and breathing difficulties. Asthma attacks can be set off by numerous factors in the case of extrinsic or allergic asthma, the most common being air-borne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and animal epithelia and dander. Moderate risk of developing atopic dermatitis and associated asthma. Follow the general recommendations for atopic dermatitis, which can be found in the section below. In this case it is essential to avoid exposure to the environmental allergens (dust mites, pollen, dander, etc.) you are sensitive to, because they would provoke the appearance of dermatitis outbreaks and make symptoms worse. Control and monitoring by your allergist, who will indicate the appropriate treatment in each case, is recommended. Moisturiser Anti-inflammatory Calming Antipruritic Atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis Atopy is a hereditary condition which predisposes towards the development of hypersensitivity to environmental allergens (substances which cause allergy) and this will cause certain diseases called atopic such as atopic dermatitis, extrinsic (allergic) asthma, allergic rhinitis. Many people develop all three disorders at some time. It is estimated that around 30% of children with mild atopic dermatitis will develop asthma or allergic rhinitis in their adolescence or youth. These figures rise to 70% in cases of severe dermatitis. It seems that the damage to the skin of people with atopic dermatitis plays a fundamental role in the later development of rhinitis and asthma. By not acting as a protective barrier, the skin allows allergens to enter the body and come into contact with the immune system, which favours allergy in other organs such as the nose and respiratory tract. Allergic rhinitis is a disease in which there is chronic inflammation of the internal layers of the nose, caused by allergy to exterior substances. Its symptoms include nasal, sneezing, runny nose and nasal congestion. Page 16

16 Moderate risk of developing atopic dermatitis and associated allergic rhinitis. Follow the general recommendations for atopic dermatitis, which can be found in the section below. In this case it is essential to avoid exposure to the environmental allergens (dust mites, pollen, dander, etc.) you are sensitive to, because they would provoke the appearance of dermatitis outbreaks and make symptoms worse. Control and monitoring by your allergist, who will indicate the appropriate treatment in each case, is recommended. Moisturiser Anti-inflammatory Calming Antipruritic Page 17

17 for prevention of premature skin ageing The most important and effective is to avoid and control factors that produce free radicals: exposure to the sun (use sunscreen and wear adequate clothing), poor diet, exposure to environmental toxins and smoking. Use of topical antioxidants (in the form of creams, solutions, etc.) on the skin is recommended because of their protective effect, especially from the damage caused by ultraviolet radiation (UV). Better results are obtained with antioxidant combinations such as vitamins C and E or vitamin E with ferulic acid. It is recommended incorporating antioxidants orally by eating a varied diet, although in individual cases and population groups (such as smokers, sports-men and -women, and the elderly) oral antioxidant supplements, especially vitamins E and C, may be beneficial. Doses should be tailored for each individual case based on the judgement of a medical professional. to prevent damage caused by ultraviolet radiation (UV). The recommended measures include avoiding exposure to sunlight during hours of greatest ultraviolet irradiation (12PM-4PM), use of clothes, hats and sunglasses all complemented by the use of an adequate sunscreen.these measures are necessary whenever you carry out activities in the open air for a long time. With regard to external protection (use of clothing), it is important to know that not all fabrics give adequate solar protection. The composition of the cloth and colour have an influence, and thicker fabric, synthetic fabrics such as polyester, wool and tighter cloth fibres and dark colours give more protection. Solar protectors are cosmetic products containing sunscreens (physical, chemical or biological) which block the arrival of UV radiation to skin cells. Currently, formulations are being marketed which use a combination of physical, chemical and biological sunscreens. This guarantees effective protection from all types of radiation and new solar protectors are emerging which can prevent, improve or even repair skin damage caused by solar radiation. To do this, as well as the mentioned sunscreens, cell DNA repairing products such as certain enzymes have been added to their formulae. They are active when applied both before and after exposure to solar radiation. Page 18

18 The sun protection factor (SPF) is a number which indicates the product's capacity to protect against UV radiation. It tells how long someone can be exposed to the sun without the risk of suffering sunburn. It has been verified that daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen, with an SPF of 25 for UVB radiation and 14 against UVA, not only protects from sunburn but also from the immunosuppression which radiation induces in the skin. These people should use an SPF of no less than 30 for UVB. Topical sunscreens should be applied 30 minutes before exposure to sun to remain on the skin for a longer time. It should be reapplied after bathing or intensive exercise and every 2-3 hours during the day when working in the open air or in situations where solar radiation is more intense, such as terrestrial zones near the equator, on mountains (especially if there is snow) and on beaches in the summer. They should be applied to all parts of the body exposed to the sun, including the ears, shoulders and the backs of knees and legs. As well as these topical sunscreens, there are orally given substances with photoprotective capacities which are recommended in this case always in complement to sunscreens, never as a replacement. At present, the most commonly used orally given photoprotective substances are these: Carotenes (beta-carotene and lycopene). These reduce sensitivity to the sun in patients with solar urticaria. Polipodium leucotomos. A natural extract rich in polyphenols, which give it an antioxidant effect. It protects the skin from UV radiation. Combinations of various antioxidants. The combination of orally given vitamins C and E seems to provide protection from erythema caused by UV radiation, while neither of them is effective on its own. Green tea polyphenols. They have an antioxidant effect. Polyunsaturated fatty acids. These have been shown to reduce the incidence of sunburn. As with topical sunscreens, oral solar protectors usually combine substances, generally with antioxidant effects, so reinforcing the overall solar protection effect. For example, it is well known that combining vitamins C and E significantly increases the solar protection effect compared with giving them separately. for the prevention of atopic dermatitis Skin hydration is the foundation stone for care of this type of skin. Atopic skin is dry and sensitive and moisturisers repair its deteriorated barrier function. They are important both for treatment of atopic dermatitis when it appears (they alleviate symptoms of the disease and reduce medical treatment) and to prevent its appearance. The most widely used hydrating products are mixtures of water and fats. In general, the greater the water content and the lower the fat content, the lower the moisturising capacity. For this reason, given the same components, more evanescent creams and lotions are less effective than ointments. The most recommendable products for this type of skin are vaseline and products with a higher, more compact fat content. The main drawback to the use of vaseline is the greasy feel it gives the skin, which makes it unappealing. To avoid this greasy feel, various, more cosmetic but equally effective products have been introduced on the market. Cholesterol, free fatty acids and ceramides are the essential fatty components of the skin. This fact has led to the manufacturing today of numerous, more modern, sophisticated moisturisers with these three essential ingredients. Page 19

19 All moisturising products act much more effectively if they are applied just after a shower or bath, when the skin is slightly damp. Hygiene: Syndet soaps, to which one or more emollients (moisturisers) have been added are normally used. Many oatmeal or "superfatted" soaps meet these conditions. You should shower or have a bath once a day, in warm water and for no more than 15 minutes. Afterwards, you should dry yourself without rubbing and apply a special oil or moisturising cream. Trim your nails well and keep them clean to prevent microbial infection from scratches. Use gloves or other protective means to keep yourself as clean as possible. Too much water and cleaning products are harmful to this type of skin. Sweat cooks skin. Washing as soon as you finish practising sport or intense physical exercise is recommendable, applying a moisturiser cream after that. Clothing and footwear: Clothes in contact with the skin (including bedclothes) should be made of natural fibres (cotton, linen, etc.). Wool and synthetic fibres should be avoided, because they are coarser and cause itching in this kind of skin. Footwear should be made of leather or canvas and well aired. Wearing sports footwear for a long time should be avoided, it should be used only for sports. Socks and stockings should be made of cotton or thread, not nylon or Lycra. General care: This type of skin is very vulnerable to environmental irritants and conditions of external dryness. Trying to avoid excess heat and sudden temperature changes is recommended. Air rooms well. Do not raise the temperature too much by overheating. The ideal temperature is about 20 C. You can bathe in the sea or a swimming pool as long as you hydrate your skin when you get out of the water. Avoid dust in the bedroom (eliminate carpets, rugs, curtains and feather eiderdowns). Clean the floor with a mop, because it is preferable to sweeping. Avoid direct contact with cleaning products and chemical irritants. Use cotton and rubber gloves for housework. In the work place, taking occupational hygiene measures, professional advice and eliminating skin irritants and skin sensitising agents is recommended. All this will prevent the appearance of eczema in these people with atopic constitution. When signs and symptoms of the disease appear, treatment and control by a dermatologist is recommended. Main properties to look for in cosmetic products according to the genetic results obtained. The most relevant properties in the cosmetics we recommend using are listed below. These properties have been chosen according to the genetic results obtained from DNA analysis. For every property, a series of ingredients used in the preparation of cosmetic products is indicated. Page 20

20 Property Sunscreen Cosmetic products that block UV radiation from reaching the skin cells to prevent its harmful effects. They are divided into three types: - Physical or inorganic: These are mineral pigments, opaque to light, that produce a screening effect and are highly resistant to water. The advantages are the broad protection they provide and the reduction in the risk of irritation or contact allergy, i.e. they are very safe and stable, meaning they are the most suitable for children under the age of three and for people with hypersensitive or allergic skin. The texture is the only drawback, as at concentrations above 5% it has the disadvantage of forming a white mask whose use is difficult to tolerate. - Chemical or inorganic: They are synthetic molecules that absorb the energy from UV radiation. They are colourless and, on a cosmetic level, highly acceptable, meaning they are commonly added to cosmetics. However, there is a higher risk of causing allergic contact reactions. - Biological: These are antioxidant and immune/photo-protection substances (such as vitamins C and E, carotenoids and flavonoids). Moisturiser Helps the skin to maintain its elasticity and flexibility and protective barrier function. Makes skin smooth, shiny and healthy in appearance. Regular use mitigates and prevents signs of ageing. A suitable moisturiser compliments the functions of the lipids (fats) contained in the epidermis, allowing the skin to continue its natural process of flaking and renewal. Moisturisers can be divided into three kinds, depending on their action: - Humectant: Attracts and retains moisture. - Emollient: Improves skin flexibility and smoothness and tries to replace the reduction in or lack of natural lipids in the epidermis. - Occlusive: Creates a barrier, preventing water loss by evaporation. Calming Reduces the sensation of burning and itching. Ingredients Anthralin Carotenoids: astaxanthin Oats Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) Aloe vera Urea Hyaluronic acid Oats Aloe vera Retinoids: tretinoin Antioxidant Antioxidants neutralise free radicals some may be synthesised in the body, but others, such as some vitamins, must be incorporated in the diet. The use of topical antioxidants on the skin in the form of creams, solutions, etc. is beneficial because of their protective effect, especially from damage caused by UV radiation. Antipruritic Reduces skin itching. Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) Retinoids: retinol Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) Selenium (L-selenomethionine) Ferulic acid Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) Alpha lipoic acid Oats Page 21

21 Property Anti-inflammatory Reduces the appearance of skin inflammation and irritation and reduces their symptoms when they appear. UV protection Cosmetic products which reduce or prevent the negative effect of the sun's UV rays on the cells of the skin. Increased epidermal lipid production Products which stimulate oil production in the outer layer of the skin, producing its hydration and adequately conserving its protective barrier capacity. Ingredients Oats Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) Selenium (L-selenomethionine) Ferulic acid Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) Retinoids: tretinoin Collagen synthesis Collagen comprises most of the dermis and is essential for skin elasticity and flexibility, so its synthesis is essential to keep skin healthy. The skin loses collagen over time, which makes the epithelial structures weaker and the skin thinner and more susceptible to injury, while signs of flaccidity and wrinkles begin to appear. Reduction of collagen breakage One of the effects of photoaging is to cause disorganisation and rupture of the collagen in the skin. Keeping collagen fibres in perfect condition is essential for skin to be healthy. Retinoids: retinol Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA): lactic acid Retinoids: tazarotene Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA): malic acid Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA): mandelic acid Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA): citric acid Retinoids: tretinoin Retinoids: retinol Retinoids: tazarotene Main ingredients to be looked for in cosmetics. The recommended ingredients are listed below according to their properties. This list can be used as a guide for selection of the best cosmetics for skincare according to the genetic results obtained from DNA analysis. Ingredient Properties Moisturiser Oats Emollient hydrating cream. Anti-inflammatory Calming Antipruritic Page 22

22 Ingredient Retinoids: tretinoin Alone or combined with hydroquinone. It can be used at different concentrations ( %) but must always be prescribed by a professional, as it frequently causes irritation. Secondarily, it is effective in reducing the pigmentation associated with photoageing. It may trigger photosensitivity; for this reason, it is recommended using it at night or with a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF). Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) Emollient hydrating cream. Retinoids: retinol Always prescribed by a professional, as it frequently causes irritation. It may trigger photosensitivity, and, for this reason, it is recommended using it at night or with a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF). Properties Collagen synthesis Reduction of collagen breakage Moisturiser Increased epidermal lipid production Collagen synthesis Reduction of collagen breakage Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) Aloe vera Emollient hydrating cream. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA): lactic acid Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) Maybe a skin irritant at high concentrations. Secondarily, it acts as a biological sunblock. UVA protection. Retinoids: tazarotene Always prescribed by a professional, as it frequently causes irritation. It may trigger photosensitivity, and, for this reason, it is recommended using it at night or with a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF). Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA): citric acid Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA): malic acid Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA): mandelic acid Ferulic acid Selenium (L-selenomethionine) Urea Humectant hydrating cream. Collagen synthesis Increased epidermal lipid production Anti-inflammatory Moisturiser Calming Collagen synthesis Collagen synthesis Collagen synthesis Reduction of collagen breakage Collagen synthesis Collagen synthesis Collagen synthesis UV protection UV protection Moisturiser Page 23

23 Ingredient Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) Reduces the cellular toxicity of stress caused by UVB radiation, protecting from erythema and reducing sensitivity to this kind of radiation. Secondarily, it acts as a biological sunscreen. Alpha lipoic acid Hyaluronic acid Moisturising hydrating cream. Anthralin Chemical or organic sunscreen. UVA protection. Carotenoids: astaxanthin Biological sunscreen. Properties Moisturiser Sunscreen Sunscreen Page 24

24 Technical information Our laboratories are certified as a Healthcare Unit with a Sample Collection and Processing Unit [Unidad Asistencial con Unidad de Obtención y Procesamiento de Muestras] (No. CS13175 CM Health Ministry); we deliver personalised nutrition and health-analysis services, and offer the most advanced technology on the market. The technology used for the genetic analysis is based on a technology platform consisting of the TaqMan OpenArray genotyping system and the QuantStudio 12K Flex Real-Time PCR high-performance system, an automated and robust system for the analysis of gene variants in the genes of interest, offering highly reliable results. This platform allows us to perform different types of tests. The test we use is the genotyping of SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms), and we can analyse efficiently and accurately up to 12,288 reactions in a single run. It consists of an amplification in real time, using TaqMan probes (highly specific), of specific DNA fragments which contain genetic variants of interest. DNA is analysed using genotyping chips configured specifically for each type of test, by the means of customised and integrated fluorescent probes able to identify the genetic variations in the sample. The data file resulting from the analysis is interpreted by a sophisticated IT platform, which generates findings, conclusions and recommendations. Page 25

25 Glossary of scientific terms Allele: Each of the alternative forms of a gene occupying the same place on homologous chromosomes and whose expression determines the characteristics of a structural feature, such as the colour of your eyes. Chromosome: Each of the highly organised structures formed by DNA and proteins that contain most of an individual s genetic information. Collagen: Fibrous protein in the connective tissue, cartilages and bones. It is flexible but is highly resistant to traction. It is the most abundant component of skin and bones. Comedogenic: Product that causes certain imperfections known as comedones (blackheads). Texture that does not obstruct skin pores is known as non-comedogenic. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA): A biomolecule made up of a string of deoxyribonucleotides. It constitutes the genetic material of cells; its sequence contains information for protein synthesis. It is more widely known by its acronym DNA. Dermis: Intermediate skin layer of vertebrates located under the epidermis and above the hypodermis. Eczema: Skin infection characterised by reddish and oozing blisters, which then gives way to crusting and flaking. Epidermis: Outermost skin layer formed by epithelial tissue, which covers the body of animals. Epithelium: Animal tissue made up of tightly packed cells that cover the surface, cavities and ducts of the body. Erythema : Superficial inflammation of the skin, characterised by red spots. Free radicals: Chemical species (organic or inorganic) characterised by having one or more unpaired electrons. They form in living organisms through contact with oxygen. They act by altering cell membranes and attacking the genetic material of the cells. Gene: DNA sequence that is the functional unit for the transmission of inherited traits. Genome: Sequence of nucleotides that composes the DNA of an individual or species. Genotype: The genetic information that belongs an organism, in the form of DNA. Normally the genome of a species includes a series of variations or polymorphisms in many of its genes. Hives: Allergic skin rash consisting of red spots and pimples and intense itchiness. Lipid: Small biomolecule insoluble in water that, generally, contains fatty acids, sterols or isoprenoids. Melanin: Pigment found in some mammalian cells that gives the skin, hair and eyes their colour. Its main function is to protect the body against sun rays. Melanoma: Tumour in pigment cells that contain melanin. Oil free: Oil-free product It applies to cosmetics that do not contain fatty agents, meaning they are especially recommended for skin prone to excess sebaceous secretion. Peeling: Renewal and detachment of the dried epidermis in the form of small flakes. Phenotype: Characteristic of the genotype of an organism that varies in a given environment. Photoageing: Premature ageing process due to chronic exposure to solar radiation. Polymorphism: Property of nucleic acids and proteins as they may present in many molecular forms. Protein: Substances that composes living matter, formed by one or more amino-acid chains; for example, enzymes, hormones, antibodies, etc. Seborrhoea: Pathological increase in secretion from the skin s sebaceous glands. Sunscreen: Cosmetic product that contains sun filters (physical, chemical or biological) that block ultraviolet (UV) radiation from reaching skin cells. Page 26

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