New Research Shows How Skin Bacteria May Impact Stress and Mood, Unveiling a Link Between Skin Health and Mental Wellbeing

New Research Shows How Skin Bacteria May Impact Stress and Mood, Unveiling a Link Between Skin Health and Mental Wellbeing

(IN BRIEF) A new study by Unilever, in collaboration with the University of Liverpool, has revealed a potential link between the skin microbiome and psychological wellbeing. The research found that higher levels of the skin bacterium Cutibacterium, especially on the face and underarms, were associated with lower stress and improved mood. This breakthrough supports the idea of the skin-brain axis, highlighting the connection between skin health and mental wellbeing. These findings may influence the development of products that enhance both physical appearance and mental health, meeting the growing demand for holistic beauty solutions.

(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 28-May-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — New research by Unilever scientists, in collaboration with the Microbiome Innovation Centre and the Brain & Behaviour Lab at the University of Liverpool, has uncovered a fascinating connection between the skin microbiome and psychological wellbeing. This groundbreaking study, published in the British Journal of Dermatology, is the first to identify the potential link between skin bacteria on various areas of the body and mental health.

While much attention has been focused on the impact of the gut microbiome on psychological wellbeing, this study sheds light on how specific skin bacteria, particularly Cutibacterium, are associated with improved mental health. The study assessed microbiome samples from areas such as the face, scalp, and underarms, alongside responses from psychological wellbeing questionnaires. The findings revealed that higher levels of Cutibacterium were linked with lower stress and improved mood, particularly on the face and underarm.

Unilever’s study, titled Body-site Specific Associations Between Human Skin Microbiome Composition and Psychological Wellbeing, offers unique insights into the role of the skin microbiome in promoting mental health. The study suggests that the abundance of Cutibacterium on the skin may be a key factor in reducing stress and enhancing mood, supporting the emerging concept of the skin-brain axis, which connects skin health with psychological wellbeing.

Jason Harcup, Chief R&D Officer for Beauty & Wellbeing at Unilever, explained the significance of these findings: “Our research suggests that the skin microbiome plays a role in mental wellbeing, potentially offering new ways to support consumers in their pursuit of both beauty and overall health. These insights are especially important because modern consumers are increasingly seeking products that support both their physical appearance and mental wellbeing.”

Unilever, with over 100 patents and more than 30,000 samples analyzed, now holds one of the world’s largest collections of human skin microbiome data. The company is already incorporating these insights into various products, including body washes, deodorants, and beauty items from brands such as Dove, Vaseline, Pond’s, and Dermalogica.