Recent research has explored a potential link between the skin microbiome and psychological wellbeing, offering new insights into how skin health may interact with mental health.
The study, conducted by researchers at Unilever in collaboration with the Microbiome Innovation Centre and the Brain & Behaviour Lab at the University of Liverpool, analysed skin microbiome samples from different areas of the body – including the face, scalp, and underarms – alongside responses from psychological wellbeing questionnaires.
A key finding from the research suggests that higher levels of Cutibacterium, a common skin bacterium, may be associated with improved psychological wellbeing. Specifically, greater levels of this bacterium on the face and underarms were linked to lower stress levels, while its presence in the underarm area also appeared to correlate with enhanced mood.
This is the first time such associations have been reported, with the study published in the British Journal of Dermatology under the title Body-site specific associations between human skin microbiome composition and psychological wellbeing.
While much of the existing research has focused on the gut microbiome’s influence on mental health, these new findings open the door to further exploration of the skin-brain axis – the idea that skin bacteria may also play a role in mental and emotional wellbeing.
Unilever has reported that the study builds on its broader microbiome research, with over 30,000 skin samples analysed and more than 100 patents filed. These insights are already being applied across a range of the company’s brands.
According to Jason Harcup, Chief R&D Officer for Beauty & Wellbeing at Unilever, the findings may contribute to the growing body of evidence that supports a more integrated view of beauty and wellbeing: “Our results reveal that greater relative abundance of Cutibacterium is associated with enhanced wellbeing. By advancing our scientific knowledge of the skin-brain axis, the goal is to develop holistic products that improve the wellbeing of our consumers, inside and out.”
The study represents a noteworthy step in understanding how the body’s microbiome ecosystems may influence both physical and mental wellbeing.
