Search for Personalized Health and Beauty Care Using DTC Gene Analysis Data

Genes contain a wealth of genetic information about disease, healthcare, nutrition, diet, exercise, skin/hair, and other traits that make each individual unique. Direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing is a new paradigm shift in the genetic testing space. Most of the methods of health and beauty care so far have been based on the environment rather than considering one’s innate genetic characteristics. If genetic analysis is prioritized in advance, health and beauty care can be more effective and efficient. The purpose of this study is to analyze the latest trends in DTC genetic testing and to explore self-solutions for personalized health and beauty care based on the results of genetic analysis among male and female college students. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of DTC genetic testing in helping young people who are concerned about their appearance and health to manage a healthier and more beautiful life. The questions included analyzing vulnerable items rated as ‘low’ or ‘caution’ in the areas of healthcare, nutrition, diet, exercise, skin/hair, and personal characteristics as a result of DTC genetic testing, exploring self-solutions for personalized healthcare and beauty care, and writing their personal impressions of DTC genetic testing. The results showed that the number of organizations certified for DTC genetic testing by the Ministry of Health and Welfare increased from nine in 2022 to five in 2024, bringing the total number of organizations to 14, and the number of tests expanded from 181 to 190. Participants used genetic testing to understand which nutrients they are vulnerable to, how they can improve problematic health conditions or lifestyle habits, and to explore self-care solutions. While the results of DTC genetic testing varied, a common theme was a newfound awareness that their health, appearance, and habits are inherited. Even if you are born with genes that make you vulnerable in some ways, you can still live a healthy life by developing good habits and supplementing nutrients through environmental factors. Genetic analysis could become an important tool in the future of modern medicine and personalized health care.