When we discuss the connection between the microbiome and various aspects of health, we’re primarily referring to the gut’s beneficial bacteria. However, your skin is also covered in helpful bacteria that can impact health.
In everyday life, we don’t recommend antibacterial soap. It’s great during cold and flu season. But generally, normal soap is better as it washes your hands without harming your skin’s microbiome. Your skin’s microbiome plays an important role in health. A new study has discovered a link between it and mental well-being.
The research was a collaboration between Unilever and the Univ. of Liverpool. It has been published in the British Journal of Dermatology.
“The skin-brain axis refers to the fact that our skin and psychological well-being are connected,” said Jason Harcup, Chief R&D Officer for Beauty & Well-being at Unilever. “Research has shown that bacteria in the gut can affect psychological well-being, but the role of skin bacteria has been less understood, until now. Our results reveal that greater relative abundance of Cutibacterium is associated with enhanced well-being, reduced stress and improved mood across various body regions, suggesting for the first time that the skin microbiome may impact mental well-being.”
Cutibacterium is a common bacterial strain found on the skin. Their study found that higher levels of it were associated with lower stress levels and a better mood. The researchers took swabs from 53 people’s faces, scalps, forearms and armpits. The participants reported their mood, sleep quality and stress levels.
Higher levels of Cutibacterium in the armpits and on the face correlated to the lowest levels of stress. Unilever has one of the world’s largest collections of human skin biome data. They have over 30,000 samples analyzed. That makes them a useful tool.
However, we are always slightly wary of studies like these; Unilever makes a substantial amount of money from skin care products. The research was facilitated by the Univ. of Liverpool and was published in a reputable journal. We trust the study. But it was quite small. And, if Unilever brings out a product to make “happy skin,” we wouldn’t rush to buy it.
To promote a healthy skin microbiome, skip long, hot showers and harsh body washes. Peels and scrubs should also be used sparingly.
Drinking plenty of water is essential to ensure your skin stays hydrated. Use a gentle moisturizer to lock in water made with things like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 and selenium.
There are visible signs when your skin microbiome isn’t doing well. If your skin is red, itchy, sensitive or flaky, it can be a sign you need to rebalance the bacteria on our skin and look at any recent changes in our personal hygiene or routine. You don’t need fancy products to take care of your skin, just mild soap and warm water!
