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Sequential Skin has developed the Skin Microbiome Test Kit to discover the state of skin microbiomes. You can do Skin Health Check to find what your skin needs. Sequential Skin has developed the first of its kind skin health test to discover the state of individuals' skin microbiome. People can now deep dive into their Skin Profile to figure out what their skin needs. Test your skin microbiome Benefits of your Skin Profile Skin Health Understand the state of your skin through your Skin Microbiome Balance Index score Skin Traits Learn about your skin traits through our in-app quiz and solutions for healthier skin Skin Age Discover your skin age and whether or not your skin is older/younger than you are Environment Unearth how your physical environment is impacting your skin microbiome Sample Register your kit: Register your kit on our Skin Health Tracker mobile app and answer the in-app quiz. Our Testing Technology Our microbiome test is the most comprehensive test on the market. We use a method known as quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) that looks at specific markers in your skin microbiome and how they impact your skin. Skin Health Testing Kit Partner with Sequential Skin to bring our innovative skin health test to your customers. Give them an in-depth analysis of what lies on the surface of their skin and how best to increase its overall wellbeing. Register your Interest Frequently Asked Questions How is the sample collected? We recommend taking the test first thing in the morning, before you shower or wash your face, so the patch captures a sample when your skin is in its most natural state. Simply stick the Sequential patch on your forehead (adhesive side down) for 10 seconds and then put it in the test tube provided, and mail it back to us. More thorough instructions are included in the test kit. How long does it take to receive results? Results are received within 2-3 weeks. Where are the results received? Your skin microbiome test results can be accessed through the Skin Health Tracker mobile application. What will the report tell you? Your Sequential report gives you a clear and in-depth look at your Skin Microbiome Balance, which reflects the state of your skin microbiome and assesses the effects that your physical environment has on your skin. It will also highlight the age of your skin based on the test. How do you manage the heterogeneity within samples? “heterogeneity” comes in two forms - biological (people have different skin microbiome) and technical (experimental/sample collection/processing), the above points are addressing both Summarised more concisely here: Targeted Demographics: We work closely with clients to clearly define the target demographic and skin type. Strict Criteria: Inclusion and exclusion criteria minimize variability caused by treatments (e.g., antibiotics) or environmental differences (e.g., travel). Smart Probes: These evaluate absolute levels of microbes on the skin, enabling us to measure exact quantities, track changes over time, and identify trends across clinical samples. Synthetic Controls: Spike-in synthetic DNA controls manage variability during sample processing. Standardized Protocols: Consistent, validated protocols are used across all labs, and we handle DNA extraction and qPCR in-house to ensure reliability. Reproducible Sampling: Our skin patch collects samples from a consistent surface area for accurate and reproducible microbiome analysis. Biological variability: Targeted Demographics: We work closely with clients to clearly define the target demographic and skin type. Strict Criteria: Inclusion and exclusion criteria minimize variability caused by treatments (e.g., antibiotics) or environmental differences (e.g., travel). Technical variability: Smart Probes: These evaluate absolute levels of microbes on the skin, enabling us to measure exact quantities, track changes over time, and identify trends across clinical samples. Synthetic Controls: Spike-in synthetic DNA controls manage variability during sample processing. Standardized Protocols: Consistent, validated protocols are used across all labs, and we handle DNA extraction and qPCR in-house to ensure reliability. Reproducible Sampling: Our skin patch collects samples from a consistent surface area for accurate and reproducible microbiome analysis.

Participate in Sequential’s skin, scalp, oral and intimate-care microbiome studies. Join our research community and help brands create evidence-based products. Join Our Research Community At Sequential, we’re advancing the science of personal care by testing products for large, industry formulators to ensure that clinically back solutions are presented to consumers worldwide. To do this, we collaborate with individuals who are interested in contributing to cutting-edge research that helps companies and scientists better understand how the microbiome and human biomarkers can impact the health of skincare, scalp care, intimate care and oral care. Why Participate? By joining our participant community, you will: Contribute to meaningful scientific research that drives innovation in personal care and pharma. Support the development of evidence-based products. Receive clear instructions and research updates tailored to each study you join. Help shape the future of personal care science. Participate In A Study First name* Last name* Email* Write a message I agree to the Privacy Policy and consent to data processing. Submit

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition affecting an estimated 16 million Americans and millions more worldwide, primarily adults over 30 (National Rosacea Society). TARGETED SKIN PANEL Rosacea Targeted Panel 23 Smart Probes ™ Rosacea Panel Validated targets: Demodex mites, Bacillus oleronius, Corynebacterium kroppenstedtii Absolute Quantification End-to-end Service Qet a Quote Unlock the Secrets of Rosacea with Sequential's Cutting-Edge Microbiome Testing Why Microbiome Testing for Rosacea? Rosacea is a chronic skin condition affecting an estimated 16 million Americans and millions more worldwide, primarily adults over 30 (National Rosacea Society). Characterized by redness, visible blood vessels, and inflammation, rosacea can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Research suggests that the skin microbiome plays a crucial role in the development and severity of rosacea. Specifically, imbalances in microbial populations, such as an overgrowth of Demodex mites or harmful bacteria, can exacerbate symptoms. In vivo testing of skincare products for rosacea is essential to ensure that formulations are compatible with the unique microbiome of rosacea-prone skin. Such testing allows researchers to observe real-world effects on microbial balance and inflammation, ensuring that products do not unintentionally worsen symptoms. Without this careful testing, products may disrupt the microbiome further, leading to increased redness, irritation, or flare-ups. Sequential is leading the way in microbiome testing for the industry. With a specialized focus on skin conditions, we have developed an innovative solution tailored to help you understand the root causes of rosacea at the microbial level. Our proprietary sequencing panel is designed specifically to offer in-depth analysis of rosacea-associated microbiota, giving you the tools to transform skincare solutions. Customized Analysis Tailored insights specific to rosacea-prone skin, allowing your R&D team to develop more personalized and effective products. Actionable Data Leverage detailed reports to guide formulation decisions and validate product efficacy with precision. Product Innovation New rosacea treatments or enhancing existing lines, our data helps you create targeted solutions with proven results. Precision Sequencing Target specific microbial communities associated with rosacea development and severity. Smart Probe s ™ Our dedicated team of scientists has developed a revolutionary method for evaluating microbes through our Smart Probes™, a proprietary panel that includes 23 key microbes specifically identified as having the most significant impact on skin health. To further understand the complex relationship between rosacea and the skin microbiome, we utilize qPCR technology. This advanced method allows us to accurately quantify microbial populations on the skin, offering deeper insights into how rosacea affects the balance of beneficial and harmful microbes. By closely monitoring how skincare products interact with these microbes, companies can develop solutions that not only target rosacea symptoms but also help restore a healthier, balanced skin microbiome, providing long-term relief for sufferers. Rosacea Panel Targets Demodex mites (Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis) These tiny mites are normally present on the skin but are often found in higher numbers on the skin of individuals with rosacea. Their presence is thought to trigger inflammatory responses. Forton FMN. The Pathogenic Role of Demodex Mites in Rosacea: A Potential Therapeutic Target Already in Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea? Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2020 Dec;10(6):1229-1253. doi: 10.1007/s13555-020-00458-9. Epub 2020 Oct 23. PMID: 33095403; PMCID: PMC7649190. Kim HS. Microbiota in Rosacea. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2020 Sep;21(Suppl 1):25-35. doi: 10.1007/s40257-020-00546-8. PMID: 32914214; PMCID: PMC7584533. Bacillus oleronius This bacterium has been linked to rosacea, particularly in relation to the inflammatory response associated with the condition. It is often found in higher quantities on the skin of rosacea patients. Corynebacterium kroppenstedtii This bacterium appears to be significantly overrepresented in papulopustular and mixed rosacea compared to healthy skin, with its presence correlating with disease severity and lesion spread, suggesting a potential opportunistic or contributory role in rosacea pathophysiology. Chien AL, Kang S, et al. Characterization and Analysis of the Skin Microbiota in Rosacea. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2020; PMID: 31502207. Industry Leader in Absolute Quantification Sequential’s Smart Probe ™ qPCR approach to microbiome analysis can resolve species and subspecies, giving statistically significant findings between skin conditions on in vivo human samples, compared to conventional sequencing approaches. Relevant Research How Does the Skin Microbiome Influence Rosacea? Unveiling the Microbial Puzzle Read More Articles

Sequential is pleased to announce the opening of it's first European lab based in London. We look forward to bringing our clinical microbiome testing service for personal care products to the UK and greater European market. Unveiling Sequential Bio’s New London Lab testing HQ 18th October 2022 - In an effort to keeping the entire testing process in-house, allowing for rigorous quality control, and meeting the demand of our European clients - today we announce the opening of our testing lab in London. Sequential is proud to announce that it will open a European HQ, and testing lab site in White City, London. One key quality that makes Sequential stand out from its competitors is keeping the testing protocols and quantitative analysis in-house. This gives them the ability to ensure the processing, and targeting of microbiome markers for their clients is extremely high quality. “Innovative R&D, and rigorous quality control on our lab testing and processes have always been front of mind at Sequential. By opening a lab in London, we’re responding to the demand from customers - whilst retaining control over our quality in testing.” - Dr Oliver Worsley, CEO/Co-Founder. Adding to their testing labs in Singapore, and New York, in which they serve Singapore, Thailand, Australia, and the US markets. This enables faster turnaround time for European clients, as the demand for non-invasive molecular analysis of the skin reaches new heights in Europe. Between 2018 - 2022, there have been over 34 microbiome deals (licensing and investments) made. With an average contract value of $257M, this has created over $2.3B of value in the gut and skin microbiome space. Europe is a significant player in the global microbiome field, expected to grow at a CAGR of 24.25% (between 2022-2028). About Sequential Sequential is part of the Sequential Skin group – with a US lab in New York City, alongside a lab in London and a lab in Singapore. Sequential Bio team has over 20 years of combined expertise in genetics, epigenetics, and microbiome research. It was recognised recently as the “Most Significant ” Testing Method in the Industry. Sequential has validated its AI-driven testing platform with over 30 companies, analyzing over 12,000 skin microbiome samples. They specialise in skin, scalp and vulva/vaginal microbiome samples. They are supported by Enterprise SG, A*STAR, Genome Institute of Singapore, IndieBio New York, SOSV, Metaplanet Holdings, Scrum Ventures, Genedant VC, Ben Holmes (ex. General Partner at Index Ventures), Innovate UK, and are a resident company of Johnson & Johnson Innovation – JLABS.

Discover the ease of oral microbiome testing with our comprehensive service. Gain insights for a healthier you. Start your journey today. Oral Microbiome Testing As the intimate care industry grows, consumers demand transparency from the brands formulating their products. It has become essential for formulators to create products they are willing to test to present scientifically backed data-driven evidence of their products' true effects. Sequential offers microbiome testing for your intimate care formulations, ranging from mouthwashes, toothpaste, etc. We are dedicated to understanding how your product interacts with the vaginal region and its microbes. Depending on how in-depth you want to go, we offer qPCR, 16S, ITS, and Shotgun Metagenomics. Download Case Study! Personalized Approach to Testing Unlike other methodologies present within the industry, Sequential's approach ensures that your product's data and analysis will stand the test of industry regulations when they are introduced. You can tailor your study entirely to your unique requirements. Test Products in a Real-Life Context The microbiome comprises a complex ecosystem of microorganisms that live together in a delicate balance, which is why it's best to test directly upon it directly. To fully understand the impact a product is having on the microbiome, in vivo is the only way. Collect Longitudinal Data With in vivo testing we can design your study around the extended use of a product over multiple time points. This allows us to review how a product is performing before and after usage, but also take into account its gradual impact on the microbiome. Measure Against a Control Group Measure a product against a control group that might have a different percentage of your active ingredient within its formulation or no active at all. This will allow for deeper insights into the impact of a formulation on microbial balance and diversity. 4 Sequencing Reports To Pick From Depending on your development stage and what you are interested in studying we offer qPCR, 16S, ITS, and Shotgun Metagenomics. With our qPCR Smart Probes™ we can go down to the strain level in our analysis. Personalize Your Microbiome Study! the human mouth is home to approximately 700 different species of bacteria, creating a dynamic and intricate oral microbiome that constantly interacts with the body's immune system and overall health Smart Probe s ™ Our dedicated team of scientists have developed a method of evaluating microbes through our Smart Probes ™. These refer to a panel of 20 key microbes we have specifically identified as having the most impact on oral health. Over and above the taxonomic characterisation that 16S offers, which gives us a snapshot of all the genus present within a collected sample (Lactobacillus , Streptococcus , etc.) our targeted approach takes it a step further, opening the lens to the species (L. paracasei ), sub-species and even strains within them. This is a crucial distinction as not all strains of a species behave similarly. We find that within these species there are strains associated with inflammation and strains that are commensal, and beneficial. Gold Standard Certification Sequential has developed the gold standard test for products designed to target the microbiome, in vivo (in, or on, humans). Finally, we can give some certainty about if a product is truly affecting the microbiome. Using next-generation sequencing of the collection of micro-organisms found on the body, before and after product usage, Sequential investigates the microbial balance and diversity, and particular micro-organisms we know are important and play a role in a healthy microbiome. We give you an in vivo certification that your product maintains the microbiome. And it’s not exclusive to skincare! We do this for haircare products, oral products, and vulva/vaginal microbiomes. Personalize Your Microbiome Study! Supplement Your Microbiome Study Recruitment Services Let us take care of the entire candidate recruitment process for you! View More Biophysical Assessments Increase your data on the use of your product by evaluating additional biophysical factors. View More Formulation Support Seek consultation advice for your formulation if you are re-formulating or developing a new product. View More FAQ What is Sequential's testing platform? Sequential has developed the gold standard test for microbiome-friendly products, in vivo (in, or on, humans). Finally, we can give some certainty about if a product is truly affecting the microbiome. We offer a complete end-to-end solution to support microbiome-friendly claims. From consultancy and study design to our proprietary microbiome testing kits. We analyse, interpret and report our findings to meet your needs. Why is it necessary to test the microbiome in vivo? At present, there are no regulations for microbiome-related formulas that brands and formulators can follow, however, it has been universally acknowledged that the in vivo method of conducting clinical studies is becoming critical and paramount to getting marketing claims through. When regulations are introduced, which may be imminent, the in vitro system will find itself lacking, resulting in limited claims and certifications that do not hold their value. This is why, we at Sequential strive to offer an in vivo approach, knowing full well that we want our client's claims to be significantly backed by scientific and quantifiable data. What type of sequencing technology does Sequential use for analysis? We offer four types of sequencing techniques including qPCR with our Smart Probes™, 16S, ITS and Shotgun Metagenomics. Using next-generation sequencing of the collection of microorganisms found on the body, during product usage, Sequential investigates the microbial diversity, and particular microorganisms we know are important and play a role in a healthy microbiome. Does Sequential offer claims certification for tested products? We provide our clients with a certification to claim “Maintains the Microbiome” subject to in vivo testing results which can be used in communication efforts. Once your product is tested with our qPCR Smart Probes™ and has shown favourable results in supporting the microbiome, we can certify your product with our Maintains the Microbiome certification seal. We have ensured that our seal and certification are backed by quantifiable data and scientifically significant markers. The aim is to ensure our clients feel confident in making their claims and can communicate the true benefit of their microbiome formulations.

By conducting in vivo testing, companies can better assess how sunscreen and SPF products interact with the microbiome, ensuring not only UV protection but also the maintenance of a healthy skin barrier. TARGETED SKIN PANEL Sun/UV Targeted Panel 23 Smart Probes ™ Sun/UV Panel Validated targets: Sphingomonas spp, Micrococcus luteus, Malassezia furfur Absolute Quantification End-to-end Service Qet a Quote Unlock the Secrets of UV Exposure with Sequential's Cutting-Edge Microbiome Testing Why Microbiome Testing for SPF Products? According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, about 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, with UV exposure being one of the most common causes. With the growing awareness of the risks associated with UV damage, in vivo testing for SPF products has become increasingly crucial. The skin microbiome plays a pivotal role in protecting against UV radiation, but excessive sun exposure can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to increased risk for skin cancer and other forms of skin damage. By conducting in vivo testing, companies can better assess how sunscreen and SPF products interact with the microbiome, ensuring not only UV protection but also the maintenance of a healthy skin barrier. This holistic approach is essential to create safer, more effective sun-care products that prevent long-term damage (American Academy of Dermatology). Sequential is leading the way in microbiome testing for the industry. With a specialized focus on skin conditions, we have developed an innovative solution tailored to help you understand the root causes of UV exposure at the microbial level. Our proprietary sequencing panel is designed specifically to offer in-depth analysis of sun-exposed microbiota, giving you the tools to transform skincare solutions. Customized Analysis Tailored insights specific to UV exposure, allowing your R&D team to develop more personalized and effective products. Actionable Data Leverage detailed reports to guide formulation decisions and validate product efficacy with precision. Product Innovation New SPF products or enhancing existing lines, our data helps you create targeted solutions with proven results. Precision Sequencing Target specific microbial communities associated with sun exposure and UV related skin conditions. Smart Probe s ™ Our dedicated team of scientists has developed an innovative method for evaluating the effects of sun exposure and UV radiation on the skin using our Smart Probes™ technology. This proprietary panel features 23 key markers that we’ve identified as having the most significant influence on skin health, particularly in response to UV damage. To further understand the impact of UV radiation on the skin’s microbiome and overall health, we utilize qPCR technology. This advanced technique allows us to accurately measure changes in microbial populations and skin health following sun exposure. By closely analyzing how sun care products interact with these key markers and microbes, companies can develop solutions that not only protect against UV damage but also support the skin’s natural defenses, ensuring long-term skin health and resilience against sun-induced aging and other effects. Sun/UV Panel Targets Sphingomonas Sphingomonas has been shown to be highly resistant to UV irradiation and capable of reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in human keratinocytes—the predominant cell type in the epidermis. This discovery underscores the important role that members of the skin microbiome, such as Sphingomonas , play in protecting human skin from solar radiation damage. By mitigating oxidative stress caused by UV exposure, Sphingomonas may contribute to healthier skin and potentially enhance the skin's natural defense mechanisms. Harel N, Ogen-Shtern N, Reshef L, Biran D, Ron EZ, Gophna U. Skin microbiome bacteria enriched following long sun exposure can reduce oxidative damage. Res Microbiol. 2023 Nov-Dec;174(8):104138. doi: 10.1016/j.resmic.2023.104138. Epub 2023 Sep 16. PMID: 37722498. Micrococcus luteus Cyanobacteria have shown potential in skin care due to their ability to decrease pigmentation and reduce damage associated with photoaging. According to research, Cyanobacteria on the skin surface can help mitigate these effects by lowering melanin production and protect the skin from oxidative stress, which contributes to the aging process. Skowron K, Bauza-Kaszewska J, Kraszewska Z, Wiktorczyk-Kapischke N, Grudlewska-Buda K, Kwiecińska-Piróg J, Wałecka-Zacharska E, Radtke L, Gospodarek-Komkowska E. Human Skin Microbiome: Impact of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors on Skin Microbiota. Microorganisms. 2021 Mar 5;9(3):543. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms9030543. PMID: 33808031; PMCID: PMC7998121. Malassezia furfur Malassezia furfur is a species of yeast commonly found on human skin, often associated with various dermatological conditions. Despite its ability to synthesize a UV-protective substance called pityriacitrin, Malassezia furfur demonstrates high sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Burns EM, Ahmed H, Isedeh PN, Kohli I, Van Der Pol W, Shaheen A, Muzaffar AF, Al-Sadek C, Foy TM, Abdelgawwad MS, Huda S, Lim HW, Hamzavi I, Bae S, Morrow CD, Elmets CA, Yusuf N. Ultraviolet radiation, both UVA and UVB, influences the composition of the skin microbiome. Exp Dermatol. 2019 Feb;28(2):136-141. doi: 10.1111/exd.13854. Epub 2019 Jan 14. PMID: 30506967; PMCID: PMC7394481. Industry Leader in Absolute Quantification Sequential’s Smart Probe ™ qPCR approach to microbiome analysis can resolve species and subspecies, giving statistically significant findings between skin conditions on in vivo human samples, compared to conventional sequencing approaches. Relevant Research Seasonal Shifts in the Skin Microbiome: Exploring Dynamic Changes Across the Year Shedding Light on Summer Sun: Does UV Exposure Affect the Skin Microbiome? Read More Articles

Elevate your research with our expert clinical subject recruitment services. Rely on us for top-notch microbiome collection and analysis. Take control now! Simplify your Study Protocols with our Tailored Candidate Recruitment Highlight your specific requirements for clinical test subjects and we will take care of the entire candidate recruitment process for you, whether it is in-person or remote. This allows us to closely supervise and guarantee the quality of microbiome collection. 10,000+ Subject Database We offer candidate recruitment across a diverse pool of candidates to give better insights into how certain formulations work with individuals of different backgrounds. In Lab or Remote Testing The nature of our recruitment process is often linked to at-home testing, however, if you would prefer a controlled environment to test participants, we can arrange for testing to be conducted within our labs in Singapore, London and New York City. Simplified Recruitment Process As a global company, we pride ourselves in our reach and ensuring your study targets are met. We can recruit all the candidates required by the study regardless of geographical barriers. Longitudinal Studies Understanding the long-term impact of your formulation of personal care products is only possible with our in vivo solution which requires human participants to test the products on themselves. Why is a Human Approach Better when it Comes to Personal Care Product Testing? At present, there are no regulations for microbiome-related formulas that brands and formulators can follow, however, it has been universally acknowledged that the in vivo method of conducting clinical studies is becoming critical to getting marketing claims through. When regulations are introduced, which may be imminent, the in vitro system will find itself lacking, resulting in limited claims and certifications that do not hold their value. This is why, we at Sequential strive to offer an in vivo approach, knowing full well that we want our client's claims to be significantly backed by scientific and quantifiable data. in vitro Lab Testing in vivo Human Testing Analyze select bacteria within a lab setting Narrow view of microbiome: Isolated from other bacteria Cannot extract meaningful conclusions on how the product will interact with its place of application Limited analysis: brief snapshot of how the product interacts with an isolated bacteria Analyze all bacteria within its natural context Broad view of microbiome: you can see interactions between bacteria Can extract meaningful conclusions on how the product will interact with its place of application Longitudinal analysis: evaluate the product over time and its impact on the microbiome Normal to Atopic Skin It’s crucial to test your product on individuals suffering through the concerns your active ingredients are targeting. This is why we believe in a fully personalized approach to candidate recruitment and human testing, bringing forward those individuals that your products are genuinely designed to help.

Join the team at Sequential! Explore exciting career opportunities in microbiome testing and research for the personal care industry. Build your future with us.

What is a Skin Microbiome? The first layer of defense for your skin against outside forces is made up of good bacteria. A diverse microbiome means healthy skin. The secrets behind your skin microbiome On the surface of your skin sits an organic ecosystem made up from billions of good bacteria called the microbiome. It forms the first layer of defense for your skin against outside forces. In order for your skin microbiome to be healthy, it must be balanced. A balanced microbiome means healthy skin What affects your skin microbiome? Your environment The country you live in can have adverse effects on your skin microbiome, from pollution levels to UV exposure. Your skin care routine When it comes to skin care, not knowing what products to use can negatively impact your skin microbiome. Your physical wellbeing What you put in your body is as important as what you put on it. A healthy diet can affect your skin health. Your mental health When you aren’t well internally, it can be a struggle to look after yourself. It is imperative to be aware of your mental health. Frequently asked questions What is your skin microbiome? Your skin microbiome is formed of the billions of microbes that sit on the surface of your skin but also line the gut, mouth, and other parts of the body. At Sequential Skin, we focus solely on your skin microbiome, testing it and providing you with solutions to balance it. Your microbiome is essential to your skin health and it is unique to you. What does it mean to have a balanced microbiome? Your skin microbiome health is measured by how equally dispersed the bacteria on your skin are compared to one another. When one or more bacteria dominate others, you might face skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, and eczema. Our test measures 20 microbes and provides you with a full report so you can transcend your skin to its optimal level. What affects your skin microbiome? The skin microbiome is largely impacted by your external environment, such as your location, pollution levels, and the skincare products that you use. This means that your skin is ever-changing and constantly adapting to different elements. It’s also influenced by internal factors, like gut health, making it unique to each of us. How can your skincare routine affect your skin microbiome? If you are using harsh ingredients that contain alcohol and irritants, it can severely disbalance your skin microbiome. You may think you are using products that are helping your skin, but instead, they are having adverse effects. This is why it is so important to test your skin microbiome and see if you might need a change of routine. Unearth the secrets of your skin microbiome We are skin experts We are a team of award-winning scientists with a mission to empower individuals to make better-informed decisions about their skin health. Our Story

The ingredient list for our Biome Mask formulation with each of their applications from giving deep hydration to protecting from pollutants with antioxidant benefits. Category Ingredient What is it? Benefit Melanin Targeters Arbutin Arbutin is an antioxidant that is extracted from different berries. Arbutin helps in ensuring that skin is brightened and pigmentation is reduced in the skin. It can also fade scars. Hydrators Squalane Squalane is a hydrogenated version of squalene. It is an emollient and behaves similar to our own skin sebum. Prevents moisture loss, can neutralize UV damage . Postbiotics Lactobacillus ferment Lactobacillus ferment is a non-living probiotic ingredient made by fermentation of the microorganism Lactobacillus. Thanks to its soothing effect on the skin, it helps to strengthen the skin's defense and maintains the health of the skin microbiome. Allantoin Allantoin is an extract from comfrey plant. Allantoin protects and soothes the skin. Trehalose Trehalose is a disaccharide with hydrating properties for the skin. It’s a plant sugar. Trehalose is used as a prebiotic and is effective to help maintain healthy skin. Green Tea Extract Extract from the leaves of green tea. Tea Extracts is an antioxidant ingredient that aids soothing the skin and can also address skin discoloration and early signs of aging. Colloidal Oatmeal Colloidal Oatmeal is cocktail of oats that has been refined into powder and acts as a skin protectant. Colloidal Oatmeal aids in locking in moisture in the skin barrier and also has soothing properties. Skin Soothing Multi-Ceramide [Ceramide NP; Phytosphingosine] Ceramides are lipids or fats that exist in skin cells and make up to 40% of your outer skin layer. Ceramides are crucial in aiding your skin to retain moisture and prevent unwanted bacteria from entering your body. Skin Repairing Peptide Complex [copper tripeptide-1, Acetyl heaxapeptide-8, Palmitoyl Pentapepdide-4, Palmitoyl tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl tetrapepide-7, tripeptide-1, tripeptide-2, tripeptide-2, tripeptide-3, acetyl Octapeptide 3] Peptides are amino acid chains that aid in the forming of certain types of protein in the skin such as elastin and collagen. Peptides can help in increasing skin elasticity and reducing signs of aging, allowing skin to appear firmer. Skin Shields Vitamin E [Tocopherol] Tocopherol is an excellent example of a powerful antioxidant that is oil-soluble, meaning it can easily dissolve into the skin. Tocopherol helps in combating free-radical damage (such as pollution), and can also be an effective hydrator. Retinyl Palmitate Retinyl Palmitate is the most abundantly used form of retinol (Vitamin A). Retinyl Palmitate has anti-aging properties as well as anti-oxidant properties. Centella Asiatica Centella Asiatica is a medicinal herb that is known to treat inflammation and has antioxidant properties. Centella Asiatica is used as an active ingredient in skincare products for anti-inflammation, anti-oxidant and soothes compromised skin.

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Certify your skincare product with us! Maximise microbiome benefits in your strategy. Let's start today for success! Skin Microbiome Testing As the skincare industry grows, consumers demand transparency from the brands formulating their products. It has become essential for formulators to create products they are willing to test to present scientifically backed data-driven evidence of their products' true effects. Sequential offers microbiome testing for your skincare formulations, ranging from moisturizers, serums, cleansers, SPF products, etc. We are dedicated to understanding how your product interacts with the skin and its microbes. Depending on how in-depth you want to go, we offer qPCR, 16S, ITS, and Shotgun Metagenomics. Download Case Study! Personalized Approach to Testing Unlike other methodologies present within the industry, Sequential's approach ensures that your product's data and analysis will stand the test of industry regulations when they are introduced. You can tailor your study entirely to your unique requirements. Test Products in a Real-Life Context The microbiome comprises a complex ecosystem of microorganisms that live together in a delicate balance, which is why it's best to test directly upon it directly. To fully understand the impact a product is having on the microbiome, in vivo is the only way. Collect Longitudinal Data With in vivo testing we can design your study around the extended use of a product over multiple time points. This allows us to review how a product is performing before and after usage, but also take into account its gradual impact on the microbiome. Measure Against a Control Group Measure a product against a control group that might have a different percentage of your active ingredient within its formulation or no active at all. This will allow for deeper insights into the impact of a formulation on microbial balance and diversity. 4 Sequencing Reports To Pick From Depending on your development stage and what you are interested in studying we offer qPCR, 16S, ITS, and Shotgun Metagenomics. With our qPCR Smart Probes™ we can go down to the strain level in our analysis. Personalize Your Microbiome Study! The body's skin surface consists of the largest organ within the human body, hosting trillions of microbes (bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.). These microbes protect the body from external forces, playing a key role in systemic human health. Clinically Validated Collection System In addition to skin swabs, at Sequential we have developed another strong innovation to collect reliable, reproducible, and straight forward skin samples - making it that much easier to do remote consumer and clinical studies. - Validated with external parties for DNA and RNA collection, both from microbial and host cells. - Published in peer-reviewed journals, showing ease of collection and adoption for clinical studies in a range of studies. -Clinically tested on 7 unique body sites. Smart Probe s ™ Our dedicated team of scientists have developed a method of evaluating microbes through our Smart Probes™. These refer to a panel of 20 key microbes we have specifically identified as having the most impact on skin health. Over and above the taxonomic characterisation that 16S offers, which gives us a snapshot of all the genus present within a collected sample (Cutibacterium, Staphyloccocus, etc.) our targeted approach takes it a step further, opening the lens to the species (C. acnes ), sub-species (C. acnes defendens ) and even strains within them. This is a crucial distinction as not all strains of a species behave similarly. In Fact, we find that within these species there are strains associated with inflammation and strains that are commensal, and beneficial. Gold Standard Certification Sequential has developed the gold standard test for products designed to target the microbiome, in vivo (in, or on, humans). Finally, we can give some certainty about if a product is truly affecting the microbiome. Using next-generation sequencing of the collection of micro-organisms found on the body, before and after product usage, Sequential investigates the microbial balance and diversity, and particular micro-organisms we know are important and play a role in a healthy microbiome. We give you an in vivo certification that your product maintains the microbiome. And it’s not exclusive to skincare! We do this for haircare products, oral products, and vulva/vaginal microbiomes. Personalize Your Microbiome Study! Supplement Your Microbiome Study Recruitment Services Let us take care of the entire candidate recruitment process for you! View More Biophysical Assessments Increase your data on the use of your product by evaluating additional biophysical factors. View More Formulation Support Seek consultation advice for your formulation if you are re-formulating or developing a new product. View More FAQ What is Sequential's testing platform? Sequential has developed the gold standard test for microbiome-friendly products, in vivo (in, or on, humans). Finally, we can give some certainty about if a product is truly affecting the microbiome. We offer a complete end-to-end solution to support microbiome-friendly claims. From consultancy and study design to our proprietary microbiome testing kits. We analyse, interpret and report our findings to meet your needs. Why is it necessary to test the microbiome in vivo? At present, there are no regulations for microbiome-related formulas that brands and formulators can follow, however, it has been universally acknowledged that the in vivo method of conducting clinical studies is becoming critical and paramount to getting marketing claims through. When regulations are introduced, which may be imminent, the in vitro system will find itself lacking, resulting in limited claims and certifications that do not hold their value. This is why, we at Sequential strive to offer an in vivo approach, knowing full well that we want our client's claims to be significantly backed by scientific and quantifiable data. What type of sequencing technology does Sequential use for analysis? We offer four types of sequencing techniques including qPCR with our Smart Probes™, 16S, ITS and Shotgun Metagenomics. Using next-generation sequencing of the collection of microorganisms found on the body, during product usage, Sequential investigates the microbial diversity, and particular microorganisms we know are important and play a role in a healthy microbiome. Does Sequential offer claims certification for tested products? We provide our clients with a certification to claim “Maintains the Microbiome” subject to in vivo testing results which can be used in communication efforts. Once your product is tested with our qPCR Smart Probes™ and has shown favourable results in supporting the microbiome, we can certify your product with our Maintains the Microbiome certification seal. We have ensured that our seal and certification are backed by quantifiable data and scientifically significant markers. The aim is to ensure our clients feel confident in making their claims and can communicate the true benefit of their microbiome formulations.