A new breed of hi-tech DNA-powered tests are poised to unlock the secrets of our bodies. Stylist explores why it’s time to embark on Project You

Photography: Vincent Alvarez

You’ve run out of moisturiser. Sigh. But, rather than trek to the nearest beauty counter to study 14 different formulas before settling on one that looks like it might work, you upload your personal genetic profile to an app. The app analyses your DNA and seconds later, it has evaluated your skin’s primary skincare requirements. You hit a button and, the following morning, your very own customised moisturiser – one that requires not even a smidgen of good faith, one that was perfectly tailored to your skin’s needs – lands on your doormat. The dream, right? Only, this scene is just a few years away from becoming a reality.

Right now, we’re on the cusp of a beauty revolution powered by DNA testing. For the first time ever, our unique genetic profiles are within reach and this is set to change the way we eat, sleep, exercise, plus what we put on our skin. It could even make the pain of finding a foundation to match your skin tone a thing of the past. In fact, the influence of genetics in health and beauty is being billed as on the same scale as the birth of the internet – there is simply no limit to where it could take us.

“This is the next phase in terms of beauty and wellness,” reports Victoria Buchanan, strategic researcher at trend forecasting agency LS:N Global. “We’re seeing a shift from people spending on products to spending on mind- and body-enhancing experiences.” And genetic testing is an entirely new experience that plays into our thirst for information.

Hi-tech DNA testing is set to revolutionise the way we take care of ourselves