How to collect your DNA sample
IMPORTANT: Please do not eat, drink, smoke, brush your teeth, or chew gum for at least 1 hour before collecting your sample. If you forget, please email us to purchase a replacement kit.
US & LATAM Customers
Buccal (Cheek) Swab DNA Test Kit: The kit contains 2 swabs that resemble soft cotton tips. These swabs are used to collect cells from the inner lining of your cheek (buccal cells).
BEFORE YOU SWAB
- Verify that the numbers on both of your vials match.
- Register your DNA kit at www.selfdecode.com/app/register. You can find your unique barcode on the side of your vial.
- Follow the collection instructions:
- Mail the kit back to us using the prepaid USPS return envelope.
- If you are located in LATAM, you will be required to arrange your own return shipping to our lab in the US. Please email us for assistance.
- Wait 3-5 weeks. Once your results are ready, you will be notified via email!
International (non-US) Customers
International customers will receive one of two test types, depending on when the order was placed. See below for both kit types and their respective instructions:
Option 1: Buccal (Cheek) Swab DNA Test Kit
Non-US customers who ordered their kits as of August 1, 2024 will receive a buccal swab DNA test kit. The kit contains a sterile swab which is used to collect cells from the inner lining of your cheek (buccal cells).
- Follow the instructions in your kit box to register your kit, then collect your sample:
- Scan the QR code on the box (or head to https://selfdecode.com/en/instructions/) for instructions on how to ship your sample back to us.
- Quick Tip: make note of your tracking number, so you can monitor your kit's return progress!
- Wait 4-6 weeks. You will be notified via email when your results are ready.
Option 2: Saliva Sample DNA Test Kit
Non-US customers who ordered before August 1, 2024 will receive a saliva collection DNA test kit. The kit contains a sterile, screw-top collection tube with a stabilizing solution. It also includes a funnel that attaches to the collection tube to easily transfer the saliva into the tube without spillage.
1. Open the box and head to https://selfdecode.com/app/register/ to register your kit. You can find the sample barcode on your tube.
2. Carefully read the instruction manual (located inside the kit box) and collect your sample.
- Email support@selfdecode.com for your prepaid return label.
- Quick Tip: make note of your tracking number, so you can monitor your kit's return progress!
- Wait 4-6 weeks. Once your results are ready, you'll be notified via email.
If you have any questions about the collection process, please do not hesitate to