'Beauty from Within' Role of Genomics In Product Development

By: Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk, PhD, MBA and Liz Beckmann

Nutrition, lifestyle, and psychological well-being are essential components for overall wellness, influencing both physical and mental health. In recent years, the "beauty from within" trend has grown, leading to an increase in new and established brands launching products that emphasize beauty and promote healthy skin and hair.

Dietary supplements, along with foods and beverages that promote glowing skin, and hair growth, are widely available both online and in retail stores. We’re increasingly seeing dietary supplements in this category being moved from pharmacy aisles to cosmetics and skincare aisles at retailers like Target and in beauty stores like Sephora and Ulta Beauty.

In this article, we explore the crucial role genomics can play in the innovation and development of science-backed products and dietary supplements in the “beauty from within” category.

Below are some examples of how genomics can be used to identify gene markers and vulnerabilities in beauty-related wellness conditions.

Skin Conditions: Certain genes are linked to skin conditions like acne, eczema, and premature aging. Clinical research involving genomic testing and analysis can help identify these genes, allowing for skincare routines that address specific genetic vulnerabilities.

Additionally, by understanding the genes and their interactions that influence the aging process, companies can also develop targeted formulations to delay or reduce the signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.

Hair Conditions: Similar to skin conditions, genes that influence hair growth patterns, texture, and susceptibility to conditions like alopecia. By clinically researching and analyzing these genes, formulations and preventive measures can be developed to maintain healthy hair and address specific causes of hair thinning or loss.

The knowledge obtained from clinical research about genes involved in skin and hair conditions can be utilized to develop and validate products. Information about the genes involved in several of these conditions are already available through various clinical research databases including published peer reviewed research articles.

Scientifically Tested Beauty Products and Ingredients

An increasing number of consumers are looking for products that have undergone scientific rigor and clinical testing. How can manufacturers and brands substantiate their product claims to meet the demand?

With advancements in genomics and AI, such as Canomiks’ GeneTune technology and AI-powered platform, brands and manufacturers can customize formulations and gain deeper insights into the impact of their ingredients and formulations on human health.

Through understanding their effects on genes, genomics-based tools can validate the efficacy and mechanisms of action for various ingredients and formulations to support the product claims. Verifying the biological effect of a product or ingredient is a critical step towards a successful clinical trial.

At Canomiks, we use lab-based testing on human cells to verify the effect of ingredients and products on genes involved in a given condition. Sometimes, we discover additional wellness benefits that our clients can include in their product claims. On occasion, we find little or no biological effect, this can prevent costly market risks and clinical trial failures. This type of testing, with a quick turn-around time, allows a rapid response to the ever-evolving consumer trends in the industry.

With the growing consumer demand for scientifically tested products in the “beauty from within” category, it is imperative for companies to consider the role of genomics and science in product development.