5 Things You Should Know Before Buying SKiN iQ
Here at Genomelink, we have a long history of working in the genetic testing industry. Using our knowledge and expertise gained, in this series of blog posts, we are going to provide a very concise summary of different DNA tests in a standard and comparable way. This time we are looking at SKiN iQ.
1. About the Company
2. Test Results and Sample Reports
3. Reviews
4. Cost
5. Raw DNA Portability
1. About the Company
Quick facts:
Company Name: Pathway Genomics
Foundation Year: 2008
Location: San Diego, California, United States
Number of Employees: 101-250 (Crunch Base)
Monthly Visits: 39,000+ (Crunch Base)
Number of Databases: Unknown/Not Reported
Pathway Genomics, also known as Pathway OME, is a privately-owned biotechnology company that provides genomic testing services to healthcare professionals and direct-to-customer kits for health and lifestyle recommendations. Using patients’ genetic profiles, they provide personalized healthcare information in several specialties such as pharmacogenomics, and general health and wellness. In 2014, Pathway Genomics partnered with the IBM Watson Group to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning in precision healthcare.
Separately, the company agreed to pay a $4 million fine to settle a lawsuit brought by the US Department of Justice due to allegations they improperly paid physicians for patient referrals. Pathway Genomics paid the fine in 2015 and did not admit to any wrongdoing. They have also been scrutinized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for their marketing strategies.
2. Test Results and Sample Reports
Much like other DNA tests on the market, receiving a SKiN iQ report from Pathway Genomics starts with a cheek swab. After sending in your DNA sample, you can expect to receive personalized skin care suggestions and a detailed report of several skin traits that may be influenced by your genes. Below you can check out more details about the categories of skin health covered in this DNA test report.
These are the traits and risk factors you can expect to learn about in a SKiN iQ report:
- Skin photoaging traits report on how you will react to the sun, including:
- Wrinkles and collagen degradation
- Tanning response and sun sensitivity
- Sun spots
- Freckles
- Skin texture and elasticity traits report the likelihood of having one of the following skin conditions:
- Cellulite
- Stretch marks
- Varicose veins
- Skin inflammation and allergy risks inform of your genetic predisposition for the following:
- Contact dermatitis (itchy skin)
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
- Skin moisture factor reports on whether or not you are likely to have dry skin
- Skin oxidation protections tells you how your skin might respond to harmful oxidizing agents
- Skin glycation reports the risk of advanced skin aging
- Skin nutritional needs report whether or not you have an Omega-3 or Omega-6 deficiency
To see a complete sample report, please click the link below!
3. Reviews
You can learn more about customers’ thoughts and experiences with SKiN iQ below. Check them out!
- 4.7 out of 5 stars at CVS Pharmacy, with 3 reviews
There are limited online reviews of the SKiN iQ DNA test kit. If you have used this test, please let us know what you thought by clicking here!
4. Cost
You can purchase a SKiN iQ test kit online through Pathway Genomics, Amazon, or Walmart for $129. This cost includes the test kit and the lab fee to process your DNA sample. There is also the option of purchasing the DNA collection kit through CVS Pharmacy for $24.99. After purchase, you must register your kit online and pay the $89 lab processing fee, for a total cost of $113.99. Occasionally you can find deals on Pathway Genomics’ website that offer this DNA test at a discounted rate.
5. Raw DNA Portability
Pathway Genomics does not provide you with your raw data, so you cannot uploaded it elsewhere for additional analysis. If you have already submitted a DNA test kit with another genetic testing company and are interested in uploading your raw data for additional analysis, find out more DNA upload sites, check out our article "The Best DNA Upload Sites"
