The Next Step In The Science Of Skin Care

The mass customization trend--in which consumers can get anything tailor-made to their needs--has hit the skin-care market. A company called Lab21, headquartered in Stony Brook, N.Y., creates individually formulated products based on a quantitative genetic test. Customers take an at-home DNA test (by swabbing the inside of their cheek) and answer a questionnaire about the health of their skin. Lab21's SkinProfiler System then creates a custom formula to treat specific conditions--for example, acne, redness or aging. Prices range from $80 for 2.5 oz. of antioxidant fluid with SPF to $600 for a complete custom skin-care line including face cream, eye cream and cleanser. For more information, visit lab21.com