New York: A US company has launched a bespoke anti-wrinkle cream based on each customer’s DNA.

Dermagenetics, uses a testing kit to swab the inside of the cheek. Supposedly many top stars have already handed over samples. The company claims that most creams on the mass market are virtually useless and not suited to the individual genetic makeup of each person which means we are not able to utilise the benefits.

Clients of Dermagenetics are sent a kit to harness cells which are then measured for various factors including collagen breakdown, sun damage, wrinkles, environmental damage and skin health.

The cost of this high-tech beauty is high with the DNA test costing £135 and the cream costs £125 for a bottle that lasts six to eight weeks. Clinical tests are said to show that this ‘genetically guided’ cream is considerably more effective than generic night creams.

The company says that during an eight week, double-blind, randomised and experienced a substantial reduction in the appearance of wrinkles after 14 days of treatment. After 56 days, the number of participants reporting reduction in the appearance of wrinkles rose to 70 per cent.

So what is in this magic formula? No wonder ingredients, just minerals, enzymes, herbal extract and acids that are balanced to meet specific skin care requirements.

The key is that each of the ingredients is tailored to individual requirements, avoiding potential allergies and ingredients that will not be compatible with specific skin types.

The packaging is personalised with the client’s name, and the DNA studies are kept on record so that follow-up courses of creams can be bought without the need for further tests.

The Dermagenetics skin-care system measures single nucleotide polymorphism, which are responsible for DNA variations. SNPs can inhibit the body’s ability to control the build-up of free radicals, which can damage skin cells. These random mutational events that take place within our cells are now considered major contributors to a variety of skin conditions and possibly skin diseases.

But while Dermagenetics is the first organisation to be using DNA research to create skin creams, it is not the only company to believe that controlling the ageing process is made easier if we understand our own DNA.

Surracell is a ‘personal genetic health program’, which claims to identify deficiencies and damage in our DNA and provide exclusive nutraceuticals that promote cell repair and genetic health.

Clients provide a urine sample and mouth swab, which Suracell then use to study an individual’s DNA and establish levels of damage and oxidative stress.

Within three weeks, clients are offered a full DNA analysis and then prescribed a vitamin regime designed specifically to suit their genetic make-up.

FOR further information on Dermagenetics, go to www.dermagenetics.com or call 0173 770 0020.