Can Skin Bacteria Also Bring You a Good Mood?

A groundbreaking study emphasizes the link between skin bacteria across body sites and mental health: the study evaluated microbiome samples from facial, scalp, and underarm areas alongside mental health questionnaires. Results showed that a high content of a common skin bacterium, Propionibacterium, is associated with better mental health. Specifically, higher levels of skin bacteria in the face and armpits are associated with lower levels of stress. A higher bacterial content under the armpit is also associated with emotional improvement.

A new study conducted by the Microbiome Innovation Centre and Brain & Behaviour Laboratory at the University of Liverpool has uncovered compelling evidence of a potential connection between the skin microbiome and mental health. This study provides unique insights poised to revolutionize our understanding of skincare and psychological wellness.

Despite great attention paid to the impact of gut microbiota on mental health, a new study published on May 27th in the British Journal of Dermatology reveals for the first time the functional role of the skin microbiota in the complex interactions of various parts of the body.

The study titled "Body Site-Specific Association between Human Skin Microbial Composition and Mental Health" shows that the concentration of specific beneficial microorganisms (especially dermatobacteria) on the skin is closely related to mental health. Higher levels of skin bacteria in the face and armpits are associated with reduced stress, while increased levels of skin bacteria in the armpits are also associated with improved mood. They found that high levels of a common skin bacterium, Cutibacterium, were associated with better mental health.

Notably, higher Cutibacterium levels on facial and underarm skin predicted lower stress and better mood. These findings indicate certain skin bacteria may be positively correlated with mental health, highlighting the potential of the skin microbiome's potential role as a key component of the skin-brain axis. The skin-brain axis is an emerging concept that describes the bidirectional communication between skin and brain, where psychological factors affect skin health and vice versa. In other words, the skin-brain axis refers to the connection between our cutaneous sensations and overall psychological states. Overall, an increase in the abundance of skin bacteria in multiple body parts is consistently associated with positive health conditions.

We already know that gut microbiome can affect mental health, but so far, little is known about the role of skin bacteria. The research results indicate that a relatively high abundance of dermatobacteria is associated with increased happiness, reduced stress, and improved emotions in various parts of the body, which for the first time suggests that the skin microbiota may affect mental health.

This is crucial as it bridges the pursuit of beauty with health optimization. People now are looking for products that can enhance appearance, improve mental health, and have a positive impact on overall health. By advancing scientific understanding of the skin-brain axis, skincare manufacturers are now prioritizing holistic formulations that promote well-being from within.