Give the skin barrier room
Begin with a gentle cleanser and a moisturizer suited to your skin. Introduce one new product at a time so you can notice how your skin responds.
01 / The introduction
The Skin Edit
A living surface. A daily ritual.
Skin is where daily life meets the world: sunlight, water, weather, touch, and the products we choose. My Skin Edit brings together botanical intention and practical care, with the selections you will find in my Radiance collection on Fullscript.
02 / A note from Dr. Michele
A note from Dr. Michele.
As the former Chief Science Officer of a skincare company, I have spent years studying the skin and looking closely at what goes into the products we use every day. My work on MADE SAFE's Scientific Advisory Board brings that same attention to ingredient safety and the choices we make throughout our homes.
I understand how confusing clean living can feel. Beautiful packaging, botanical ingredients and a green label can leave a lot of questions unanswered. I look at the formulation, the purpose of each ingredient and the evidence behind the claims. Clean living should feel thoughtful and achievable, without the greenwashing.
My naturopathic approach begins with the whole picture: how we nourish ourselves, how we rest, our environment and the daily rituals that care for the skin. This Edit brings that perspective to the products I have chosen, with room to understand what each one offers and why it belongs.
03 / Begin with the foundations
Let your daily care be gentle and consistent.
Include sun protection
Make shade, protective clothing, and an appropriate sunscreen part of your routine. A botanical oil or antioxidant supplement does not replace sun protection.
Nourish beyond the bathroom shelf
Regular meals, enough protein, varied plants, sleep, and attention to ongoing symptoms belong in the wider picture. Skin concerns do not automatically mean a nutrient deficiency or a need to detox.
04 / Inside the Edit
A place for each selection.
These are distinct options to consider individually. Explore the preparation before deciding what belongs in your care.
01 / BOTANICALS
The plant collection.
My botanical selections bring familiar names from the herbal apothecary into a considered conversation about skin care.
- VIEW ON FULLSCRIPT →Milk Thistle 1000Gaia Herbs Pro
- VIEW ON FULLSCRIPT →Burdock Balance Liquid ExtractWise Woman Herbals
- VIEW ON FULLSCRIPT →Broccoli Seed ExtractThorne
02 / WITHIN
The microbiome & nutrition.
The gut–skin relationship is part of the picture, alongside everyday nourishment and a reason for each supplement.
03 / ON THE SKIN
The serum wardrobe.
Explore the textures, ingredients, and directions for each formula. Choose around your skin’s needs and the routine you already have.
- VIEW ON FULLSCRIPT →Rescue MD Epidermal Repair SerumOsmosis Beauty
- VIEW ON FULLSCRIPT →Renew MD Advanced Retinal SerumOsmosis Beauty
- VIEW ON FULLSCRIPT →Stemfactor MD Growth Factor SerumOsmosis Beauty
- VIEW ON FULLSCRIPT →Catalyst MD DNA Repair C SerumOsmosis Beauty
04 / EVERYDAY RITUAL
Cleanse. Care. Take your time.
A few minutes at the sink can be an act of attention. Keep the ritual simple enough to enjoy.
- VIEW ON FULLSCRIPT →Replenish MD Antioxidant Infusion SerumOsmosis Beauty
- VIEW ON FULLSCRIPT →Purify Enzyme CleanserOsmosis Beauty
- VIEW ON FULLSCRIPT →Hydrafirm Smoothing CremeOsmosis Beauty
05 / The science behind my selections
Read a little deeper.
Gaia Herbs Pro
Milk Thistle 1000
Silybum marianum
Why I chose it
Plant part
Seed
Preparation
Capsulated seed extract standardized to silymarins
A long-standing European liver and digestive botanical.
Important constituents. Silymarin, a mixture of flavonolignans including silibinin.
Human liver-disease studies are conflicting or too limited to establish benefit. The evidence does not support a general liver detoxification promise.
GI symptoms and allergic reactions can occur, particularly in people sensitive to ragweed-family plants. Medication review is appropriate; pregnancy and breastfeeding data are limited.
The formulation. A concentrated milk-thistle fruit extract supplying silymarins.
The physiology. Silymarin compounds have antioxidant and hepatocyte-related effects in laboratory research and a long history of liver-focused herbal use.
The human evidence. This does not establish improved fertility or show that a healthy person needs liver cleansing before conception.
Individual considerations. Gaia advises against milk-thistle use in pregnancy. Review use while trying to conceive, existing liver disease, medicines and allergy to related plants before selecting it.
Shop This ProductWise Woman Herbals
Burdock Balance Liquid Extract
Arctium lappa
Why I chose it
Plant part
Root and seed
Preparation
Water/alcohol/glycerin liquid extract
European and Asian food and herbal traditions include root use for digestive, skin and urinary complaints.
Important constituents. Inulin, polyacetylenes, tannins and other phenolics; root and seed proportions and extract yield matter.
EMA root traditional-use material does not establish this root-and-seed blend’s efficacy. General detoxification or clear-skin claims are not established by robust product-specific trials.
Review allergy to related plants, pregnancy, breastfeeding and medicines. New edema or persistent skin disease needs assessment. The safety of a food root cannot be assumed for concentrated root-and-seed tincture.
Two parts of one species; root-only assessments do not establish the seed blend.
The formulation. Burdock root and seed in water, organic cane alcohol and vegetable glycerin.
The context. An Arctium lappa tincture with traditional use in skin and digestive herbalism; the root-and-seed preparation matters.
The evidence. Traditional use provides context, but robust evidence that this finished tincture clears acne, eczema, or systemic toxins was not established in this review.
Individual considerations. Contains alcohol. Consider botanical allergies and medication review; pregnancy and breastfeeding safety is insufficiently established.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
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Thorne
Broccoli Seed Extract
Why I chose it
The formulation. Current Thorne formula combines broccoli/kale seed sulforaphane glucosinolate, mustard-seed myrosinase and vitamin C.
The context. Myrosinase helps convert the glucosinolate precursor into sulforaphane; this explains why preparation affects exposure.
The evidence. Cellular antioxidant-response biology is a research rationale, not proof that this capsule treats skin disease or removes a particular environmental toxin.
Individual considerations. Contains mustard-derived ingredients; avoid with relevant allergy. Review during pregnancy or alongside treatment.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
Shop This ProductSkinesa
Skinesa Skin Probiotic
Why I chose it
The formulation. Codeage currently sells Skin Probiotic+: a broad probiotic blend with vitamin C, phytoceramides and a proprietary mixture of fermented botanicals and fruits.
The context. This is a multi-ingredient oral supplement, distinct from Skinesa and from topical fermented skincare.
The evidence. Ingredient research cannot establish clinical benefit of the complete formula. A larger organism count does not itself mean better skin outcomes, and it is not a proven acne or eczema treatment.
Individual considerations. Review all botanicals, medicines and allergies. Probiotics need particular caution with immune compromise or serious illness; the label lists S. boulardii among its organisms.
Current manufacturer name includes a plus sign. Preserve the approved product name, but confirm the purchased label/version.
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Codeage
Skin Probiotic
Why I chose it
The formulation. Codeage currently sells Skin Probiotic+: a broad probiotic blend with vitamin C, phytoceramides and a proprietary mixture of fermented botanicals and fruits.
The context. This is a multi-ingredient oral supplement, distinct from Skinesa and from topical fermented skincare.
The evidence. Ingredient research cannot establish clinical benefit of the complete formula. A larger organism count does not itself mean better skin outcomes, and it is not a proven acne or eczema treatment.
Individual considerations. Review all botanicals, medicines and allergies. Probiotics need particular caution with immune compromise or serious illness; the label lists S. boulardii among its organisms.
Current manufacturer name includes a plus sign. Preserve the approved product name, but confirm the purchased label/version.
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Thorne
L-Arginine · Sustained Release
Why I chose it
The formulation. L-arginine capsules in a sustained-release cellulose-based matrix.
The context. Arginine is an amino acid used in protein metabolism and nitric oxide production, linking it to blood-flow physiology.
The evidence. This biochemical role is not evidence that supplementing improves complexion or reverses skin aging. Skin-specific benefit of this finished product was not established.
Individual considerations. A clinician should review cardiovascular disease and medicines affecting blood pressure. The manufacturer flags herpes susceptibility and hepatocellular carcinoma; do not self-treat these situations.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
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Nordic Naturals
ProOmega® 2000 · Lemon
Why I chose it
The formulation. A concentrated fish oil supplying EPA and DHA in triglyceride form.
The physiology. These fatty acids are incorporated into membranes and participate in lipid signaling; higher therapeutic amounts can influence triglycerides under clinical care.
The human evidence. That does not establish that this supplement extends lifespan or prevents cardiovascular events in every user. Indication and baseline diet matter.
Individual considerations. Review fish allergy, anticoagulants, heart-rhythm history and overlapping fish oils. ProOmega 2000 and ProOmega 2000-D are different products; the latter includes vitamin D.
Shop This ProductOsmosis Beauty
Rescue MD Epidermal Repair Serum
Why I chose it
The formulation. A topical serum with ozonized ethyl oleate, glycerin, madecassoside, botanical extracts and a ferment extract.
The context. Glycerin is a humectant; the formula is positioned for skin comfort and the appearance of redness and uneven tone.
The evidence. The ingredient list explains the cosmetic formulation. It does not establish that the serum repairs injured tissue, detoxifies skin, or treats a medical skin condition.
Individual considerations. Patch test and stop for irritation. Persistent redness, a wound or a changing lesion deserves clinical assessment; this is not sunscreen.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
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Osmosis Beauty
Renew MD Advanced Retinal Serum
Why I chose it
The formulation. A retinal-containing serum with niacinamide, glycerin, phosphatidylcholine, peptides and other humectants/botanicals.
The context. Retinal is a topical vitamin-A derivative used in appearance-focused routines; niacinamide and humectants complement barrier care.
The evidence. Retinoid-class research supports interest in photoaging, but strength, stability and formulation influence results. It does not establish an individual result for this serum.
Individual considerations. Retinoids can irritate skin; introduce thoughtfully and use sun protection. Avoid topical retinoids during pregnancy unless specifically directed by an appropriate clinician.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
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Osmosis Beauty
Stemfactor MD Growth Factor Serum
Why I chose it
The formulation. Current ingredients include human stem-cell conditioned media and human fibroblast conditioned media with witch hazel and botanical extracts.
The context. Conditioned media refers to substances released into a cell-culture medium; it does not mean the bottle delivers living stem cells.
The evidence. The cosmetic growth-factor/exosome rationale does not establish stem-cell transplantation, tissue regeneration, or reversal of aging. Independent clinical evidence for this exact serum was not established here.
Individual considerations. Patch test; avoid applying to broken skin or using after procedures without professional guidance. Fragrant lemon oil can be an irritation concern.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
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Osmosis Beauty
Catalyst MD DNA Repair C Serum
Why I chose it
The formulation. Ascorbic-acid serum with amino acids, ketoglutaric acid, zinc/copper salts, aloe, phospholipids and botanical ingredients.
The context. Vitamin C participates in antioxidant chemistry and collagen biology; here it is part of a finished topical cosmetic.
The evidence. DNA Repair is a product name, not proof that it reverses mutations, repairs clinical DNA damage or prevents cancer. This formula is not a substitute for sunscreen.
Individual considerations. May sting sensitive skin; contains alcohol and fragrance components. Patch test and avoid eyes or irritated skin.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
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Osmosis Beauty
Replenish MD Antioxidant Infusion Serum
Why I chose it
The formulation. Niacinamide/glycerin serum with panthenol, beta-glucan, ubiquinone, glutathione, ergothioneine, astaxanthin and plant extracts.
The context. A topical humectant and antioxidant-focused layer for an appearance-based skincare routine.
The evidence. Antioxidant ingredients provide a formulation rationale; their presence alone does not prove protection against sun damage, DNA repair or treatment of inflammation.
Individual considerations. Includes denatured alcohol and fragrant citrus/sandalwood oils that can irritate susceptible skin. Patch test and retain sun protection.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
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Osmosis Beauty
Purify Enzyme Cleanser
Why I chose it
The formulation. Rinse-off cleanser with surfactants, glycerin, papain, bromelain and fruit/botanical ingredients.
The context. Surfactants remove surface oil and debris; the enzymes offer an exfoliation rationale without mechanical scrubbing.
The evidence. Cleansing and surface exfoliation are the practical purposes. A cleanser does not detoxify internal organs or establish treatment for acne.
Individual considerations. Enzymes and fragrance may irritate. Avoid eyes, broken skin and harsh rubbing; consider papaya/pineapple allergy and overall exfoliant load.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
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Osmosis Beauty
Hydrafirm Smoothing Creme
Why I chose it
The formulation. A moisturizer with shea butter, glycerin, chia-seed oil, sodium hyaluronate and Lactococcus ferment lysate.
The context. Emollients soften dry skin while humectants hold water; a ferment lysate is not the same as live probiotic organisms.
The evidence. Hydration can temporarily soften the appearance of fine lines. The ingredient list does not establish permanent lifting or reversal of skin aging.
Individual considerations. Patch test, especially with sensitivity to fragrant orange/ylang-ylang oils or other ingredients; use separate sunscreen.
Manufacturer product description or ingredient list verified; check the package for the current full label.
Shop This ProductTHE ROOT & SEED BOTANICAL
Burdock Balance · Wise Woman Herbals
Burdock, Arctium lappa, has a long place in herbal skin traditions. Its root contains inulin and other plant constituents, while the seed brings its own chemistry. This preparation includes both root and seed in a liquid extract.
That botanical identity is where I begin. I consider burdock within a broader conversation about the skin, digestive patterns, food, and the daily products touching the body.
The European Medicines Agency recognizes a traditional-use framework for burdock root in certain minor skin complaints, based on longstanding use rather than strong clinical trial evidence. That monograph is about root preparations; the Wise Woman Herbals formula contains root and seed. Those preparations should not be treated as interchangeable evidence.
THE BOTANICAL CONNECTION
Milk Thistle 1000 · Gaia Herbs Pro
Milk thistle’s silymarin compounds have attracted research into antioxidant activity and liver biology. It appears here because my approach to skin includes an interest in nourishment and the body’s wider physiology.
I look closely at the extract and the individual reason for choosing it. Skin itself deserves direct attention too: cleansing, moisture, sun protection, and a clear understanding of persistent symptoms.
Milk thistle appears in the Radiance collection as well as the Detox Edit. Its herbal history does not establish that it clears skin conditions. Persistent acne, itching, rashes, or changing lesions deserve an assessment that looks at the skin itself.
Research & references
THE GUT–SKIN CONVERSATION
Skin probiotics · Skinesa & Codeage
The relationship between the gut, immune signaling, and skin has made selected probiotic strains an active area of investigation. A probiotic formula gives that conversation a specific set of organisms to examine.
Skinesa and Codeage are distinct products. I compare their current strains and formulations with the skin question being asked, then keep the wider routine simple enough to see what is helping.
These are different products. Read the strains, formulation, and current label, and ask whether evidence concerns that particular preparation and skin condition. A probiotic is not a substitute for diagnosis or established skin care.
Research & references
THE DAILY SKIN RITUAL
Osmosis Beauty skincare
A good ritual has a rhythm: cleanse gently, support the skin barrier with moisture, and introduce a targeted active when it suits your skin. This collection includes cleansing and moisturizing options alongside products such as a retinal serum.
Retinal belongs to the vitamin A family used in topical skincare. Introduce active products gradually, use daily sun protection, and review pregnancy suitability before using a retinoid. The most useful routine is one your skin tolerates.
The collection includes cleansing, moisturizing, and targeted topical products, including a retinal serum. Introduce active products carefully and review pregnancy suitability before using retinoids. Botanical ingredients and essential oils can still irritate skin; stop a product that causes a reaction.
Research & references
06 / Shop the Edit
Check out the full protocol
Explore the complete collection, then choose the individual products that fit your care. Fullscript provides current labels, pricing and availability.
Shop the Full Edit07 / Functional laboratory testing
A Closer Look Through Testing
A test begins with a question. These are options to explore when your history, symptoms, or existing results call for more information. You do not need every test in this directory.
Questions connected with this Edit.
Quest Diagnostics
Hepatic Function Panel
- What it measures
- Liver-related enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- History, symptoms, medications, or prior findings give a specific reason to assess liver health.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Interpret with the reason for testing, symptoms, medical history, and the laboratory method. An isolated result is not a diagnosis.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Micronutrients, Antioxidants Panel
- What it measures
- Selected antioxidant nutrients: vitamins A, C, E, and coenzyme Q10.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Diet, absorption, or supplementation raises a focused question about selected antioxidant nutrients.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. The current storefront marks this test as requiring fasting. Follow the exact order instructions for duration and other preparation; discuss medication timing with the ordering clinician.
- Keep in mind
- This panel measures vitamins A, C, E, and CoQ10, not collagen, skin appearance, or every antioxidant system.
Test information & references
Explore All Lab Tests 36 more options
Precision Analytical (DUTCH)
DUTCH Complete
- What it measures
- Sex hormones and selected metabolites, daily cortisol and cortisone patterns, and selected organic-acid markers.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A clinician has a specific hormone-metabolism or daily rhythm question after reviewing cycle history, symptoms, and hormone use.
- What ordering involves
- Timed dried urine samples collected with the at-home kit. Record sleep timing, cycle day when relevant, hormone use, and collection times. Do not substitute DUTCH Complete, Plus, or Cycle Mapping schedules for one another.
- Keep in mind
- Daily patterns are affected by timing, medicines, and collection conditions. These tests do not diagnose grief or adrenal fatigue.
Test information & references
Genova Diagnostics
GI Effects® Comprehensive Profile - 1 day
- What it measures
- Selected markers of digestion, intestinal inflammation, and organisms in a one-day stool sample.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Persistent digestive symptoms warrant a closer look after the diet, bowel pattern, medication history, and clinical assessment have been reviewed.
- What ordering involves
- Stool collected with the one-day at-home kit. Follow the selected laboratory instructions for collection days, sample handling, and recent antimicrobial or supplement use.
- Keep in mind
- A stool result is a snapshot. Microbial associations do not prove a cause of symptoms or establish one ideal microbiome; individual markers differ in clinical validation.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
- What it measures
- Glucose, electrolytes, proteins, and markers related to liver and kidney function.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A broader metabolic baseline or follow-up may clarify symptoms or previous results.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Interpret with the reason for testing, symptoms, medical history, and the laboratory method. An isolated result is not a diagnosis.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Iron, TIBC and Ferritin Panel
- What it measures
- Serum iron, iron-binding capacity, transferrin saturation, and ferritin as a marker of iron stores.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Heavy menstrual bleeding, dietary limitation, suspected depletion, or possible iron overload makes the iron pattern clinically relevant.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. The current storefront marks this test as requiring fasting. Follow the exact order instructions for duration and other preparation; discuss medication timing with the ordering clinician.
- Keep in mind
- Interpret with the reason for testing, symptoms, medical history, and the laboratory method. An isolated result is not a diagnosis.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
TSH with Reflex to Free T4
- What it measures
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone, with free T4 added if the laboratory reflex criteria are met.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Symptoms or history suggest a possible thyroid contribution to changes in energy, temperature tolerance, bowel habits, or cycles.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Interpret with the reason for testing, symptoms, medical history, and the laboratory method. An isolated result is not a diagnosis.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Apolipoprotein B
- What it measures
- Apolipoprotein B, a protein that helps estimate the burden of atherogenic lipoprotein particles.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A cardiovascular risk review would benefit from particle-related information beyond a standard cholesterol result.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Interpret with the reason for testing, symptoms, medical history, and the laboratory method. An isolated result is not a diagnosis.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Hemoglobin A1c with eAG
- What it measures
- Glycated hemoglobin and calculated estimated average glucose over roughly two to three months.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- There is a reason to assess longer-term glucose regulation alongside nourishment, movement, and sleep.
- What ordering involves
- Whole blood from a blood draw. A1c alone does not require fasting; other tests in the same order may.
- Keep in mind
- Anemia, hemoglobin variants, recent blood loss or transfusion, and altered red-cell turnover can affect interpretation. It does not reveal individual meal-related glucose peaks.
Test information & references
Tiny Health
Vaginal Health Test
- What it measures
- Vaginal microbial DNA using shotgun metagenomics, including relative abundance patterns and vaginal community state type.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Persistent or recurrent vaginal symptoms raise a question about microbial patterns, with findings interpreted alongside examination and tissue health.
- What ordering involves
- Vaginal swab collected with the at-home kit. The listing describes this test for women over 18. Follow Tiny Health’s supplied vaginal-swab instructions for timing and preparation; do not apply another laboratory’s kit instructions.
- Keep in mind
- Interpret microbial detection with symptoms and examination. This is not a urine culture or a complete explanation for recurrent urinary symptoms.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH), Female
- What it measures
- Anti-Mullerian hormone, a marker that adds information about ovarian reserve.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A fertility evaluation needs ovarian-reserve context, especially for anticipating response to ovarian stimulation.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. AMH can generally be measured on any cycle day; discuss recent hormone use and relevant clinical context.
- Keep in mind
- AMH informs ovarian reserve and anticipated response to stimulation. It does not measure egg quality or provide a definitive prediction of natural conception.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy, Total, Immunoassay
- What it measures
- 25-hydroxy vitamin D, the main circulating marker used to assess vitamin D status.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Diet, limited outdoor exposure, bone health, or another clinical factor makes vitamin D assessment useful.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Interpret with the reason for testing, symptoms, medical history, and the laboratory method. An isolated result is not a diagnosis.
Test information & references
Precision Analytical (DUTCH)
DUTCH Adrenals Only Panel
- What it measures
- Daily free cortisol and cortisone, associated metabolites, and DHEA-S in dried urine.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A clinician has a defined question about adrenal hormone patterns after reviewing sleep timing and relevant symptoms.
- What ordering involves
- Timed dried urine samples collected with the at-home kit. Use the supplied DUTCH Adrenals Only dried-urine schedule and record collection and sleep times. Review medications and supplements with the ordering clinician.
- Keep in mind
- Daily patterns are affected by timing, medicines, and collection conditions. These tests do not diagnose grief or adrenal fatigue.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
- What it measures
- C-reactive protein, a nonspecific marker of inflammation.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- An inflammatory condition is suspected or an established inflammatory pattern needs monitoring.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Inflammatory results are nonspecific and may change after recent illness or injury. They do not identify the source of inflammation or measure emotional grief.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Sed Rate by Modified Westergren
- What it measures
- The rate at which red blood cells settle, an indirect marker of inflammation.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- The clinical picture calls for an additional nonspecific inflammation marker.
- What ordering involves
- Whole blood from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Inflammatory results are nonspecific and may change after recent illness or injury. They do not identify the source of inflammation or measure emotional grief.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel with Inflammation
- What it measures
- Standard and advanced lipid-related markers plus selected inflammation markers, including ApoB, lipoprotein(a), and high-sensitivity CRP.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A cardiovascular assessment calls for additional lipid and inflammation detail beyond routine testing.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. The current storefront marks this test as requiring fasting. Follow the exact order instructions for duration and other preparation; discuss medication timing with the ordering clinician.
- Keep in mind
- Inflammatory results are nonspecific and may change after recent illness or injury. They do not identify the source of inflammation or measure emotional grief.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Thyroid Panel (FT3, FT4, TSH)
- What it measures
- TSH, free T4, and free T3: the thyroid-regulating signal and circulating thyroid hormones.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Persistent symptoms or prior results justify assessment of thyroid function.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Interpret with the reason for testing, symptoms, medical history, and the laboratory method. An isolated result is not a diagnosis.
Test information & references
3X4 Genetics
3X4 Genetics Test + Blueprint Report
- What it measures
- Inherited genetic variants used to describe selected nutritional, metabolic, and lifestyle-related pathways.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A person wants to discuss inherited tendencies in nutrition and lifestyle with a clinician familiar with genetic interpretation.
- What ordering involves
- Buccal swab collected with the at-home kit. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Inherited risk is probabilistic. Performance varies by condition and the ancestry of the populations used to develop the model; a risk score does not establish disease.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Hemoglobin A1c
- What it measures
- Glycated hemoglobin, reflecting average blood glucose over approximately two to three months.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Longer-term glucose trends would inform metabolic care.
- What ordering involves
- Whole blood from a blood draw. A1c alone does not require fasting; other tests in the same order may.
- Keep in mind
- Anemia, hemoglobin variants, recent blood loss or transfusion, and altered red-cell turnover can affect interpretation. It does not reveal individual meal-related glucose peaks.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
hs-CRP
- What it measures
- Low concentrations of C-reactive protein using a high-sensitivity assay.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Cardiovascular risk assessment would benefit from an additional inflammation marker when acute illness is absent.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Inflammatory results are nonspecific and may change after recent illness or injury. They do not identify the source of inflammation or measure emotional grief. These two high-sensitivity CRP listings are alternatives, not a reason to order duplicate measurements.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Cardio IQ hs-CRP
- What it measures
- Low concentrations of C-reactive protein using a high-sensitivity assay; a separate ordering option within the Cardio IQ range.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Cardiovascular risk assessment calls for high-sensitivity CRP; choose this or the other hs-CRP option rather than ordering both routinely.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Inflammatory results are nonspecific and may change after recent illness or injury. They do not identify the source of inflammation or measure emotional grief. These two high-sensitivity CRP listings are alternatives, not a reason to order duplicate measurements.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Micronutrient, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
- What it measures
- Circulating coenzyme Q10, a compound involved in energy metabolism and antioxidant activity.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A targeted nutritional question makes a circulating CoQ10 measurement relevant.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Circulating CoQ10 is affected by supplementation and lipoproteins. It is not a direct measure of whole-body mitochondrial performance.
Test information & references
SpectraCell
Micronutrient Test
- What it measures
- The response of living white blood cells to different nutrient conditions in a laboratory assay.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A clinician is exploring a nutritional question and can relate the assay to intake, symptoms, and established nutrient testing.
- What ordering involves
- Whole blood collected by a phlebotomist using the supplied kit. Follow the selected laboratory collection and shipping schedule; SpectraCell currently says no fasting is needed for its individual Micronutrient Test.
- Keep in mind
- An ex-vivo cell-response assay is different from a serum nutrient concentration. Use alongside diet, symptoms, and established tests rather than assuming every flagged result requires high-dose supplementation.
Test information & references
Boston Heart Diagnostics
Polygenic Risk Map - Female Complete
- What it measures
- Combinations of inherited variants used to estimate susceptibility to selected conditions.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A genetics-informed prevention conversation includes family history, current biomarkers, the limitations of risk scores, and privacy considerations.
- What ordering involves
- Saliva collected with the at-home kit. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Risk estimates are probabilistic, not diagnoses. The current listing describes comparison with a European reference dataset, so applicability across ancestries needs particular care.
Test information & references
Jona
Jona Clinical Gut Microbiome Analysis Advanced
- What it measures
- Microbial DNA from shotgun metagenomic sequencing together with selected stool chemistry markers.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Persistent digestive concerns warrant a discussion about whether microbial and stool-chemistry information would change care.
- What ordering involves
- Stool collected with the at-home kit. Follow the selected laboratory instructions for collection days, sample handling, and recent antimicrobial or supplement use.
- Keep in mind
- A stool result is a snapshot. Microbial associations do not prove a cause of symptoms or establish one ideal microbiome; individual markers differ in clinical validation.
Test information & references
TruDiagnostic
TruAge + TruHealth
- What it measures
- DNA-methylation-based estimates of biological aging and related health patterns.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- An informed longevity discussion includes exploratory aging estimates alongside established metabolic markers and physical function.
- What ordering involves
- Bloodspot collected with the at-home kit. The current storefront marks this test as requiring fasting. Follow the exact order instructions for duration and other preparation; discuss medication timing with the ordering clinician.
- Keep in mind
- Methylation-derived estimates are not direct measurements of serum nutrients or hormones, a disease diagnosis, or proof of lifespan extension.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Heavy Metals Panel (Venous)
- What it measures
- Arsenic, lead, and mercury in venous blood.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- An occupational, household, dietary, or environmental history suggests exposure to one of the measured metals.
- What ordering involves
- Whole blood from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Interpret with the reason for testing, symptoms, medical history, and the laboratory method. An isolated result is not a diagnosis.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Heavy Metals Panel, 24-Hour Urine
- What it measures
- Selected metals excreted in urine over a complete 24-hour collection.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A specific exposure question requires assessment of metal excretion over a full day.
- What ordering involves
- Complete 24-hour urine collection using the laboratory container. Follow the exact start/stop and storage instructions. Incomplete collection affects results; do not add a chelation challenge.
- Keep in mind
- Excretion over one day is not total body burden. Recent exposures and specimen handling matter.
Test information & references
RealTime Labs
Environmental Toxins Panel
- What it measures
- Selected environmental chemical metabolites in a urine specimen.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A relevant exposure history supports a discussion about whether measured urinary chemical metabolites would change practical exposure reduction.
- What ordering involves
- Urine collected with the at-home kit. Use the RealTime Labs urine kit and its current collection, storage, and shipping instructions. Do not substitute blood-collection instructions.
- Keep in mind
- A spot urine finding reflects the substances measured and recent exposure or excretion. It does not establish total body burden, locate the source, or prove the cause of symptoms.
Test information & references
Access Labcorp Draw
Arsenic, Lead, Mercury, Random Urine
- What it measures
- Arsenic, lead, and mercury in a random urine sample.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- The exposure history points toward arsenic, lead, or mercury and the selected specimen fits the clinical question.
- What ordering involves
- Random urine sample collected according to the order instructions. Follow the exact assay instructions and disclose recent seafood intake when arsenic is measured. Do not add a chelation challenge.
- Keep in mind
- Speciation may be needed to distinguish arsenic forms. Concentration and recent exposure affect urine findings; results are not a total toxin burden.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
PFAS (FOREVER CHEM) 9
- What it measures
- Nine per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and the reported combined concentration.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A credible exposure history makes a PFAS measurement useful for an informed exposure-reduction conversation.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- The result cannot identify the exposure source, attribute symptoms, predict individual disease, or establish a treatment by itself.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Lipid Panel, Standard
- What it measures
- Total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and calculated lipid measures.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A baseline or follow-up cardiovascular assessment is needed.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. The current storefront marks this test as requiring fasting. Follow the exact order instructions for duration and other preparation; discuss medication timing with the ordering clinician.
- Keep in mind
- Interpret with the reason for testing, symptoms, medical history, and the laboratory method. An isolated result is not a diagnosis.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel without CO2, ALT
- What it measures
- Selected metabolic, electrolyte, protein, kidney, and liver-related markers. This specific panel omits carbon dioxide and ALT.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A clinician specifically selects this reduced metabolic panel and confirms that omitted markers are not needed for the question.
- What ordering involves
- Serum from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- This is not the same panel as the Women’s Health Comprehensive Metabolic Panel: CO2 and ALT are omitted. Confirm which measurements are needed before ordering.
Test information & references
Precision Point Diagnostics
Comprehensive Thyroid Panel w/ Antibodies
- What it measures
- TSH, free and total T3, free and total T4, plus thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin antibodies.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Symptoms, family history, or previous thyroid findings call for both thyroid-function and antibody assessment.
- What ordering involves
- Serum collected by a phlebotomist using the supplied kit. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Interpret with the reason for testing, symptoms, medical history, and the laboratory method. An isolated result is not a diagnosis.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
Functional Health Panel (Female)
- What it measures
- A broad set of 55 reported biomarkers selected for an assessment of female health; review the current analyte list to avoid duplicate orders.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A wider baseline is clinically justified after reviewing existing results and the risk of unnecessary overlapping tests.
- What ordering involves
- Blood draw; the listing specifies plasma, serum, and whole blood. The current storefront marks this test as requiring fasting. Follow the exact order instructions for duration and other preparation; discuss medication timing with the ordering clinician.
- Keep in mind
- This Quest panel overlaps with individual tests. Review the exact 55-marker list and existing results before ordering; a broad panel can produce incidental findings.
Test information & references
Quest Diagnostics
CBC (includes Differential and Platelets)
- What it measures
- Red-cell measures, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets, and a white-cell differential.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Fatigue, suspected anemia, immune-cell changes, or another clinical question warrants a blood count.
- What ordering involves
- Whole blood from a blood draw. Follow the instructions supplied with the exact order. Fasting and medication timing may change when tests are combined.
- Keep in mind
- Interpret with the reason for testing, symptoms, medical history, and the laboratory method. An isolated result is not a diagnosis.
Test information & references
US BioTek
Oral Microbiome Profile
- What it measures
- Selected oral organisms and oral pH using a targeted quantitative PCR profile.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- A dental or medical clinician considers a targeted microbial profile useful alongside oral examination and daily oral-care history.
- What ordering involves
- Oral specimen using the supplied kit; the storefront lists saliva. Confirm the kit method before collection. The storefront lists saliva, while manufacturer instructions describe an oral collection kit. Confirm and follow the supplied kit method and restrictions on recent eating, drinking, and oral products.
- Keep in mind
- A targeted profile is not a complete census of the oral ecosystem. Detection does not independently establish active dental disease or systemic disease causation.
Test information & references
Access Medical Labs
Urinalysis w/ Reflex to Culture
- What it measures
- Urine chemistry and microscopic findings, with culture performed only when the laboratory reflex criteria are met.
- Why it is here · When it may be useful
- Current urinary symptoms require evaluation for infection or another urinary problem.
- What ordering involves
- Urine collected according to the laboratory instructions. Obtain during symptoms when evaluation is needed. Collect before antimicrobial treatment when feasible, without delaying necessary assessment or treatment.
- Keep in mind
- A culture is not automatic for every sample. Reflex criteria, contamination, and recent antimicrobials affect interpretation; persistent symptoms may require reassessment.
Test information & references
Ordering eligibility, availability and collection fees can vary by test and location. Confirm the current listing and your clinician’s instructions before ordering. Laboratory results belong within your history and care; no single result identifies the whole cause of a symptom.
08 / The physician behind the Edit
09 / Related reading & collections
Keep exploring.
Do I need everything in The Skin Edit?
No. These are individual options, not a universal protocol. Review overlapping ingredients and choose only what fits your history and care.
Where do the foundations fit?
They come first. Nourishment, sleep, movement, and relevant daily or environmental factors help determine whether a supplement or test has a useful role.
Can I read the collection without a Fullscript account?
Yes. The educational guide is open to everyone. Fullscript manages current labels, availability, account requirements, and purchases separately.
10 / Research & references
The details behind the Edit.
Research & references
Individual preparation references appear with each selection. Traditional uses and laboratory findings are distinguished from human clinical evidence. These educational collections do not establish a physician–patient relationship. Purchases through the Fullscript links may financially support my practice.
Keep oral supplements, topical products, and prescribed care in one conversation. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, eczema, rosacea, and sensitive skin can change what is suitable. Seek assessment for persistent or worsening symptoms and any concerning change in a skin lesion.
The Foundations · My gift to you
Return to the ground
your body knows.
Before protocols. Before supplements. Begin with water, nourishment, breath, and the everyday environment that supports your health.
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