New research by Unilever scientists in collaboration with the Microbiome Innovation Centre and the Brain & Behaviour Lab at the University of Liverpool has revealed a groundbreaking potential link between the skin microbiome and mental wellbeing. This pioneering study provides novel insights that could reshape our understanding of the connection between skincare and psychological health.

While the gut microbiome’s impact on mental health has been widely studied Unilever’s latest findings published today in the British Journal of Dermatology mare the first to highlight the skin microbiome’s role in this intricate relationship across different parts of the body.

The study titled Body-site specific associations between human skin microbiome composition and psychological wellbeing reveals that certain beneficial skin microbes particularly Cutibacterium are linked to improved mental wellbeing. Higher concentrations of Cutibacterium on the face and underarms were associated with reduced stress while elevated levels in the underarm area also correlated with enhanced mood. Overall greater presence of Cutibacterium across various body sites consistently aligned with positive psychological outcomes.

These findings add to Unilever’s growing portfolio of pioneering microbiome research. With more than 100 patents and over 30,000 samples analyzed Unilever now possesses one of the largest human skin microbiome datasets globally. Insights from this research are already informing the development of products across brands like Dove Vaseline Pond’s and Dermalogica including body washes deodorants and skincare solutions.

Jason Harcup Chief R\&D Officer for Beauty & Wellbeing at Unilever explains that these new findings reinforce the emerging concept of the skin-brain axis the idea that our skin and mental wellbeing are closely connected. While it’s well established that gut bacteria can influence psychological health the role of skin bacteria has remained largely unexplored until now he says. Our study shows that a higher relative abundance of Cutibacterium across different body regions is linked to improved wellbeing  reduced stress and elevated mood suggesting for the first time that the skin microbiome may directly impact mental health.

He adds This is significant because today’s consumers no longer view beauty and wellbeing as separate goals. They seek products that enhance physical appearance  support mental wellbeing and promote overall health. By deepening our scientific understanding of the skin-brain axis we aim to create holistic products that nurture both inner and outer wellbeing.

Source: https://www.unilever.com/news/press-and-media/press-releases/2025/unilever-uncovers-link-between-skin-microbiome-and-mental-wellbeing-for-the-first-time/#:~:text=New%20research%20conducted%20by%20Unilever,wellbeing%20for%20the%20first%20time.