What You Can Discover with DNA Tests

When we think of DNA testing, the first things that come to mind are probably paternity tests and crime evidence, but DNA can reveal so much more. For example, tests are available to tell us in what area of the world our ancestors lived. You may find that you have relatives you have never known or met, and you may decide to learn more about the customs of your family's homeland.

A specific DNA test can tell you a lot about yourself, which can help you improve your life in numerous ways. For example, a DNA test can tell you about certain qualities of your skin — such as collagen quality, elasticity and antioxidant levels — that you can use to determine the most effective topical skin care products for your precise genetic makeup. Armed with this knowledge about your skin’s genetic potential, you can be sure that you will know which skin care products will give your skin the best results. You also can discover your ideal weight and possible reasons for weight gain or loss.

There are even tests for our beloved pets that can help you to verify the breed and/or health of your dog. After all, our pets are a part of our family!

Curiosity is a big reason why people decide to have their DNA tested, but enhancing your health and well-being are also important reasons to take the step. Don’t you think it’s time to take advantage of technology to improve your life?

Choosing Your DNA Test Kit

There are several kits from HomeDNA available to give you the answers you want:

• DNA test for ancestry: The GPS Origins® test can tell you in which areas of the world your family originated. This can give you great insight not only into where you need to look while researching your family tree, but also into the heritage and customs of the family you never met
• DNA testing for weight and skin: Our home DNA tests can help you unlock the full potential of your skin and help you care for it and protect it. After you take our HomeDNA Skin Care test, we will send you a comprehensive genetic report from our lab. This report will provide you with specific recommendations for skin care products that are based on your DNA, allowing you to find the most effective topical skin care products for you. It can also give you your ideal healthy weight, making it easier for you to set fitness goals through our lab’s personalized recommendations for nutrition and exercise
• Paternal testing: Paternal lineage DNA testing is also available to resolve questions related to paternity

Common Misconceptions

Many people pass on the opportunity to test their DNA because of misconceptions, such as:

• Some individuals believe that the government, future employers or insurance companies will have access to their results. This is not true. There are laws in place that forbid these entities from basing decisions on the results of DNA testing
• Privacy measures are also taken to make sure that your results are safe and secure
• Some believe that the results are not accurate. DNA testing shows the truest picture of who you are or what your biological relationship is to others
• Sometimes people avoid testing because they don’t want to give a blood sample. No blood sample is needed for testing; tests are done using your saliva and are usually collected by way of a cheek swab or having you spit into a small cup. No needles are needed except for non-invasive prenatal paternity tests
• Watching the crime drama television shows can give you the idea that test results are available immediately. This is also not true. Depending on the kind of test you take, results may be up to eight weeks away. Certain testing can be available in a matter of 24 hours, but most require between three to six weeks for results. Fortunately, some test results are available online as soon as testing is completed

Don’t you think it’s time to put that curiosity to rest? HomeDNA provides an assortment of tests to meet your specific needs, with easy collection of samples and online results. Your privacy is a priority and your results are kept safe and secure: See our privacy policy.

Get the answers you’re looking for with DNA testing for you, your loved ones and even your pets, so you can all live healthier lives together. Take the next step with HomeDNA today.