Application of nutrigenomics in skin health: nutraceutical or cosmeceutical?

Nutrigenomics is a growing field related to genetic testing based on the documentation of genetic mutations in an individual, giving us the ability to correct metabolic imbalances (personalized medicine) through specific dietary supplements or nutraceuticals. An off-shoot of nutrigenomics called dermagenetics (testing for selected genetic mutations related to skin health followed by advocating the use of either nutraceuticals or skin creams enriched by cosmeceuticals) is heading toward commercialization at a rapid rate by directly targeting the public. Although this growth represents an opportunity to explore the benefits of genetic advances in skin health, it is essential that the science, product claims, and ethical standards be critically evaluated and clear national guidelines be set in order to protect the consumer.