Research by Dr. Mark Birch-Machin at Newcastle University in England showed that the speed at which our skin ages depends up to 80 per cent on external environmental factors. It clearly indicated a link between long-term UV exposure, DNA damage, skin-cancer risk and premature skin aging (wrinkles, age spots and loss of elasticity).

Until now, the main genetic indicators of risk for developing skin cancer were considered to be fair skin and red hair, but new research in the Netherlands has shown that there is actually a genetic marker - the MC1R gene variant - that can indicate whether an individual is at risk. The good news is that there's a simple test that can tell you whether you have the marker.

DermaDNA, a DNA assessment test by dermaglow that has been delivered to Canadian drug stores (ahead of the U.S.), was developed in partnership with the biotechnology firm Genesis Genomics, of which Birch-Machin is a founder. It offers a DNA assessment test to determine the degree of DNA damage to the skin caused by UV exposure. It also assesses the skin's genetic UV risk factor.

The test consists of two molecular-level tests that assess mitochondrial DNA (skin cell DNA). The first involves a swab on the bridge of the nose, which determines skin damage by tracking genetic biomarker 3895. This biomarker was discovered to be directly correlated to cell damage from ultraviolet radiation.

The second test, involving a swab inside the cheek, is a genetic skin-profile test that tracks the MC1R gene to provide an accurate analysis of one's genetic UV risk factor and susceptibility toward developing skin cancer. Comparing these for specific variants can indicate an elevated risk to both melanoma and non-melanoma.

Available in dermatologist offices or at home, the test kit is sent with a self-addressed envelope to an independent laboratory in the U.S. The DNA is analyzed with full confidentiality adhering to FDA regulatory controls and subsequently destroyed following analysis. Patients are supposed to receive the results in about 14 days (mine took 20).

"Skin damage was only spoken of until this point because technology didn't allow DNA to be measured," says Birch-Machin. "Skin-cell DNA does not lie, it knows what you've been up to in summers past even though you may have forgotten."

For example, Angela, a 53-year-old woman of Italian descent, was surprised to find that, despite being olive-skinned, her test result indicated a high level of DNA damage and an elevated risk of skin cancer. Never having worried about skin blocks before, they're on her shopping list now.

"Dermatologists are aware that the Fitzpatrick system (based on skin colour and ethnicity) is not perfect," states Dr. Charles Lynde, dermatologist and assistant clinical professor at the University of Toronto. "This provides a technology breakthrough that could re-classify skin assessment. And being able to assess patients' current level of skin damage at the molecular level may make a compelling argument for practising safe sun habits in future."

Safe sun habits are, of course, the next step. Once you've established your level of damage, dermaglow offers a fix. The test results come with a customized prescription of treatment products from the dermaDNA line, to turn around damage and prevent future harm. The prescription recommendation offered is developed based on the level of cellular damage in the skin and on the genetic UV risk factor that determines the level of risk for future damage from environmental stressors.

The supporting dermaDNA product treatment line consists of both a professional line, exclusive to dermatologists, and a retail line. Cellular Repair in the dermaDNA line contains Sirtuin activators, protein enzymes with a clinically proven anti-aging effect. According to Scientific American (March 2006), Sirtuins are longevity genes within DNA that keep the cell's natural protection and repair activated.

Commentary on the new product at cosmeticsdesign.com offered a caveat: "One of the most common criticisms of this type of so-called 'at-home' DNA test is that consumers may not have the psychological support necessary to interpret the results."

The testing kit and products are available in Canadian drug stores.

PRICES: dermaDNA Cellular DNA Assessment Test - $165; dermaDNA Advanced Cellular Repair, 30ml - $120; dermaDNA Cellular Repair, 30ml, $100; dermaSPF, 50ml - $50.