A pioneering new study part of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between Unilever and the University of Liverpool has uncovered a potential connection between the skin microbiome and psychological well-being marking a world-first in this emerging area of research.

In collaboration with the University’s Microbiome Innovation Centre and Brain and Behaviour Lab the study points to a possible link between certain skin bacteria especially Cutibacterium and mood or stress levels. While the gut microbiome’s influence on mental health has been widely studied this research sheds new light on the underexplored role of the skin the body’s largest organ by analyzing microbial communities across various sites including the face scalp forearm and underarm.

Published in the British Journal of Dermatology the study titled Body-site specific associations between human skin microbiome composition and psychological wellbeing reveals consistent links between higher levels of Cutibacterium and better psychological health. For instance elevated levels of this microbe on the face and underarm were associated with reduced stress while its presence in the underarm also correlated with improved mood. These insights suggest the skin microbiome may play a more influential role in mental well-being than previously understood.

This cutting-edge research was made possible through UKRI’s Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programme a government-funded initiative that fosters collaboration between academia and industry. Leveraging this partnership Unilever accessed leading academic expertise from the University of Liverpool to advance innovation in line with its Positive Beauty strategy.

Dr. Carl Roberts Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Liverpool and senior author of the study stated: This research opens exciting new avenues for exploring the connection between skin and psychological well-being. It lays the groundwork for future studies that could greatly influence the development of health and personal care products.

Professor Steve Paterson Co-Director of the University’s Centre for Genomics Research and Microbiome Innovation Centre and academic supervisor of the KTP added:
I’m thrilled with the outcomes of this project which have gone beyond our expectations. By combining top-tier academic expertise across disciplines with a global partner like Unilever we’re advancing microbiome science while also addressing key societal challenges. This is a strong example of how academia and industry can collaborate to deliver impactful global health solutions.

The study establishes a new foundation for understanding how the skin microbiome contributes to psychological health and paves the way for innovative strategies in skincare health and wellness. It also highlights the value of academic-industry partnerships in driving practical real-world advancements through applied research and innovation.

Source: https://growthplatform.org/news/2025/06/ground-breaking-partnership-with-unilever-links-skin-bacteria-to-psychological-well-being/