NEWS
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Unilever study uncovers skin microbiome-mental wellbeing link
Unilever has uncovered a link between psychological wellbeing and higher levels of beneficial microbes that live on the skin. A study, published in the British Journal of
Dermatology, found increased Cutibacterium across multiple body sites was consistently associated with positive wellbeing outcomes. ‘Body-site specific associations between human
skin microbiome composition and psychological wellbeing’ assessed microbiome samples from body areas, including the face, scalp, and underarm, alongside answers from psychological wellbeing questionnaires. The study examined bacteria from various areas
of the body – the face, scalp, forearm and axilla (underarm) – of 53 adults. Each participant answered questions about their
general psychological wellbeing, including stress levels and mood, as well as perceptions of body site-specific wellbeing. The questionnaire captured things like the
psychological distress associated with visible skin concerns, which are often linked to reduced self- confidence and social withdrawal. Higher levels on the face and underarm were
associated with lower stress, and increased levels of Cutibacterium on the underarm were also linked to improved mood. Jason Harcup, chief R&D officer for Beauty &
Wellbeing at Unilever, said the study supports the emerging concept of the skin-brain axis. “The skin-brain axis refers to the fact that our skin and psychological wellbeing are connected. Research has shown that bacteria in the gut can affect psychological wellbeing, but the role of skin bacteria has been less understood, until now,” he added.
Amphistar agrees
Kensing deal Belgian biotech outfit Amphistar has entered into a strategic partnership with Kensing to deliver the former’s biosurfactants to the North American personal care market. As part of this collaboration, Amphistar’s
biosurfactants, produced by microbial fermentation of repurposed agri-food side streams, will be launched in North America by Kensing on an exclusive basis. Kankakee, Illinois-based Kensing will work with
Amphistar to develop regionally sourced circular feedstocks from biobased waste and sidestreams, such as plant oils from Kensing’s production, with a near-term plan to fully onshore production in the US.
This will not only reduce transport-related emissions but will also allow the partners to build a resilient, decentralised supply chain aligned with evolving customer expectations.
www.personalcaremagazine.com
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TM “Our results reveal that greater relative
abundance of Cutibacterium is associated with enhanced wellbeing, reduced stress, and improved mood across various body regions, suggesting for the first time that the skin microbiome may impact mental wellbeing.” Harcup said the findings are important
because consumers no longer see the pursuit of beauty and wellbeing as independent of each other. “They are looking for solutions that that support physical appearance, mental wellbeing, and positively contribute to overall health.
“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.”
August 2025 PERSONAL CARE
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