Human Skin Aging: Clinical Parameters and Gene Expression Profiling

Human Skin Aging: Clinical Parameters and Gene Expression Profiling

Skin aging is a complex process involving genetic and environmental factors. The investigators hope to learn more about how human genes and their function can contribute to skin aging and human health.

This study includes answering a survey on prior sun exposures, donating two small pieces of skin (4mm each), one blood draw, complexion analysis, photographs, and non-invasive tests such as skin surface lipid analysis. Your blood and tissue will be sent for DNA analysis and gene expression profiling.

Inclusion Criteria:

• healthy female, age 18 or older,
• Fitzpatrick type 1 or 2 skin,
• able to read and understand written consent form,
• body mass index normal or overweight range,
• willing to take blood tests and donate skin samples

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnant or lactating,
• history of cosmetic surgery affecting the face,
• use of prescription anti-aging medications for 2 weeks prior to study,
• use of dietary supplements for 2 weeks prior to study, use of tanning beds or excessive light exposure (>2 hours) in the past 2 weeks,
• medical conditions which at the discretion of the investigator will have significant impact on ability to judge subjects' skin characteristics and age, sunless tanner use in past 2 weeks