What to watch with Selen and skin aging?

Selenium is an essential trace element that acts as a cofactor for antioxidant selenoproteins (e.g., glutathione peroxidases like GPX1), which may theoretically protect skin from oxidative stress – a contributor to skin aging. However, direct evidence for selenium supplementation slowing skin aging in healthy individuals is limited to mechanistic and observational studies. Some consumer DNA tests (e.g., MyBody-X) may include GPX1 variants, but the effect size of single SNPs on skin aging is small and often confounded by lifestyle factors (diet, UV exposure). Excess selenium can be toxic (selenosis). Therefore, focus on a balanced diet rather than high-dose supplements. The clinical utility of selenium-related genetic testing for skin aging remains unclear.