MIT Maps Facial Microbiome to Decode Acne

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Acne Biome

MIT got up close and personal with people’s faces. A recent acne study looked into our facial bacteria communities.

• Analyzed 20 facial zones across 50 volunteers

• Found distinct microbiomes shaped by oiliness, moisture, and folds

• Noses, lips, eyelids, and creases hosted specialized bacteria

Cutibacterium dominated oily zones, suggesting it influences acne development. Better understanding of our facial microbiomes could enable precision skincare and help us focus our stress on other things in life. Like “do tardigrades regert tattoos?”

On the bright side, my current pimple is a Cuti (bacterium)

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