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For years, intimate care has relied on pH balancing as a measure of safety. However, pH alone does not protect vaginal ecosystems. Microbiome profiles differ widely between women based on hormones, ethnicity, contraceptive use, hygiene habits and life stage. Even pH-aligned products can still disrupt balance, reduce protective lactobacilli or slow recovery, leading to discomfort or recurring symptoms.   What We Know; Research highlights that: •      Vaginal microbiomes differ significantly between individuals and life stages, yet these variations can remain healthy (Condori-Catachura et al., 2025). •      Preservatives, surfactants and fragrance compounds can reduce lactobacillus dominance even when pH remains within recommended ranges (Han et al., 2021). •      Microbial recovery after disruption, particularly following antibiotic use or infection treatment, can take weeks  and with increased reoccurrence risks (Lehtoranta et al., 2020). •      “Gentle” or “pH-balanced” claims do not reliably protect against dysbiosis; true safety depends on strain-level preservation (Valeriano et al., 2024).   Industry Impact and Potential; Understanding these shifts means brands can now design products that better reflect real user needs: •      Lifecycle aligned solutions for key phases such as postpartum recovery, peri-menopause, or post-antibiotic care, where microbial disruption is most pronounced. •      More honest, evidence-based claims, moving beyond vague words like “gentle” or “pH-balanced” and focusing on real microbiome support. •      Clear guidance for users, helping people choose products that fit their unique microbiome or life stage, instead of assuming everyone needs the same thing.   Our Solution: Sequential evaluates how intimate-care products affect the vaginal microbiome in real use. Using qPCR, 16S, ITS and metagenomics, and drawing on a database of 50,000+ microbiome profiles, we measure effects on lactobacillus dominance, disruption and recovery over time. This evidence raises the standard for microbiome-safe intimate care, moving beyond pH-based claims toward solutions rooted in real biological protection.   References: Condori-Catachura, S. et al. (2025) Diversity in women and their vaginal microbiota. Trends in Microbiology, 33(11), 1163-1172. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tim.2024.12.012 Han, Yet al., 2021. Role of Vaginal Microbiota Dysbiosis in Gynecological Diseases and the Potential Interventions. Frontiers in Microbiology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2021.643422 . Lehtoranta, L.,et al. (2020). Recovery of Vaginal Microbiota After Standard Treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis Infection: An Observational Study.  Microorganisms ,  8 (6), 875. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms8060875 Valeriano, V., et al., 2024. Vaginal dysbiosis and the potential of vaginal microbiome-directed therapeutics. Frontiers in Microbiomes. https://doi.org/10.3389/frmbi.2024.1363089 .

City living exposes skin to constant, invisible stress such as pollutants, heavy metals and airborne microbes. This exposure changes the behaviour of the skin in terms of 1) how well it tolerates ingredients, 2) how quickly irritation appears, and 3) how long recovery takes after disruption. These changes are not just theoretical, research consistently shows measurable biological differences in pollution-exposed skin.   What We Know: Research demonstrates that continuous pollution exposure leads to measurable biological changes: •      Pollution alters microbial structure, reducing protective commensal species and favouring opportunistic organisms, leading to less stable microbial communities and increased reactivity (Yan et al, 2025). •      Airborne particulate matter drives lipid oxidation, producing inflammatory lipid metabolites that contribute to dullness and uneven tone, while also altering ingredient absorption and sensory feel (Araviiskaia, et al., 2019). •      Heavy metals disrupt immune signalling, prolonging recovery cycles and delaying restoration of hydration, transepidermal water loss and microbiome diversity after irritation or exfoliation (Misra, et al., 2021).   Industry Impact and Potential: This presents a great opportunity for brands to create produces which genuinely respond to urban skin stress, such as: •      Cleansers that remove pollutants without stripping beneficial microbes. •      Repair serums that protect lipids both dryness and oxidation. •      Ingredient combinations designed to reduce irritation and better support the skin barrier. •      Region-specific formulations tailored to pollution levels, humidity or season.   Our Solution: At Sequential we can quantify how pollution exposure alters microbial behaviour, lipid balance and recovery timelines using real-world testing. Through sequencing, biomarker profiling and multi-omic analysis, we can support you to compare urban vs non-urban responses, identifying disruption risks and resilience markers. With a global database of 50,000+ profiles across diverse climates and skin types, we help brands validate microbiome-safe formulations and turn environmental claims into measurable, defensible outcomes grounded in biological evidence.   References: Araviiskaia, E., et al. (2019). The impact of airborne pollution on skin. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 33, pp. 1496 - 1505. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.15583 . Misra, N., et al. (2021). Multi-omics analysis to decipher the molecular link between chronic exposure to pollution and human skin dysfunction. Scientific Reports, 11. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-97572-1 . Yan, D., et al. (2025). Particulate matter pollution alters the bacterial community structure on the human skin with enriching the Acinetobacter and Pseudomonas.. Ecotoxicology and environmental safety, 294, pp. 118061 . https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoenv.2025.118061 .

The gut and skin are connected through shared metabolic, immune and microbial pathways. When the gut microbiome becomes imbalanced, it can heighten systemic inflammation, worsening visible concerns such as acne, eczema, excess oil, redness and slow healing. Likewise, when the skin barrier is compromised, this can influence gut immune tolerance and increase reactivity to foods or environmental triggers. Rather than operating separately, gut and skin act as interacting ecosystems that influence each other’s stability.   What we know: Evidence shows that gut–skin interactions are measurable and biologically meaningful: •      Gut dysbiosis correlates with inflammatory skin conditions and slower recovery trajectories, meaning people with disrupted gut microbiota often experience more persistent or recurring flare-ups (Thye et al, 2022).    •      Probiotics can help the skin, but not everyone responds in the same way (Mahmud et al, 2022). •      Compounds produced in the gut can impact the skin’s oil levels, moisture, inflammation and repair processes (Jimenez-Sanchez, et al, 2025).   Industry impact and potential: Understanding the gut–skin connection gives brands an opportunity to move beyond surface-only products and address internal factors that influence skin balance. This enables more integrated inside–out solutions, rather than isolated topical treatments. This creates new possibilities such as: •      Paired ingestible-and-topical routines where supplements complement barrier-supportive skincare •      Bioactives that target internal flare triggers, such as probiotics or postbiotics used alongside barrier supportive skincare.   •      Timed product cycles   for specific skin stages, including barrier reset, seasonal dryness support, or dedicated acne management stages .   Our solution: Sequential enables brands to understand the gut-skin connection through real-world testing. Using cutting edge research techniques, we can track how changes in gut microbial composition translate into measurable shifts in skin outcomes. Using our global database of over 50,000 microbiome profiles, we are able to explore who responds, who doesn’t, and why. This insight sets a new standard for microbiome-informed skincare, moving beyond surface-only approaches and toward solutions grounded in the biology of the whole system.   References Jimenez-Sanchez, M., et al. (2025) The gut-skin axis: a bi-directional, microbiota-driven relationship with therapeutic potential.   https://doi.org/10.1080/19490976.2025.2473524 Mahmud , M. R., et al. (2022) Impact of gut microbiome on skin health: gut-skin axis observed through the lenses of therapeutics and skin diseases.   https://doi.org/10.1080/19490976.2022.2096995 Thye, A. Y-K., et al. (2022) Gut–Skin Axis: Unravelling the Connection between the Gut Microbiome and Psoriasis. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines10051037

Introduction Periodontal disease arises from a disruption of the normal bacterial balance in the oral cavity, leading to chronic inflammation of the gingiva and, in advanced cases, irreversible damage to the supporting tissues of the teeth. Gingivitis, the early and reversible stage, affects a large proportion of adults worldwide and can progress to periodontitis if left unmanaged. Globally, periodontal disease represents a significant public health burden, contributing to disability, reduced quality of life, and substantial economic costs. Its development is closely linked to the accumulation of mature dental biofilms driven by inadequate oral hygiene, which promotes the overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria. Species such as Porphyromonas gingivalis , Tannerella forsythia , Fusobacterium nucleatum , Prevotella species, and Actinomyces  are consistently associated with disease onset and progression (Hu et al. , 2024). Given the central role of bacterial dysbiosis in periodontal disease, oral care products have been developed to target plaque accumulation and inflammation using ingredients with antimicrobial or modulatory properties, such as chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride, stannous fluoride, zinc salts, hydrogen peroxide, and prebiotic agents like arginine. While some of these ingredients demonstrate clear clinical benefits, particularly for gingivitis control, their precise effects on bacterial function and virulence remain incompletely understood. Emerging transcriptomic research suggests that different ingredients can selectively alter bacterial gene expression, influencing metabolic pathways, stress responses, and virulence-related mechanisms. A deeper understanding of how specific oral care ingredients affect pathogenic bacteria at the molecular level is therefore essential for the rational design of more effective formulations (Hu et al. , 2024). Article: The Effect of Oral Care Product Ingredients on Oral Pathogenic Bacteria Transcriptomics Through RNA-Seq (Hu et al.,  2024) The gene expression activity of six representative periodontal pathogenic bacteria: Actinomyces viscosus, Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Prevotella pallens  was measured using RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) following exposure to nine common ingredients found in toothpaste and mouthwash, these being: stannous fluoride, stannous chloride, arginine bicarbonate, cetylpyridinium chloride, sodium monofluorophosphate, sodium fluoride, potassium nitrate, zinc phosphate, and hydrogen peroxide. This allows for an improved understanding of how individual oral care ingredients are able to influence bacterial activity, and allows for assessment of the effectiveness of each ingredient against the six bacterial species (Hu et al. , 2024). Results Analysis of the different treatments revealed stannous fluoride, stannous chloride, and hydrogen peroxide to have the most significant effects in reducing bacterial gene expression, with stannous chloride and hydrogen peroxide being among the most potent ingredients for inhibiting gene expression in all tested bacteria, and cetylpyridinium chloride reducing expression in almost all bacteria, with the exception of F. nucleatum . Inhibition of gene expression was significantly greater in the group receiving treatment with these ingredients compared to the no-treatment control group, indicating the effectiveness of these compounds in restricting bacterial growth and activity.  Transcriptomic analysis of bacterial gene expression found significant inhibition of the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) biosynthesis pathway in response to stannous chloride, stannous fluoride, and cetylpyridinium chloride use, with LPS molecules involved in bacterial cell membrane formation where they can act to trigger inflammation, tissue destruction, and bone loss associated with gingivitis and periodontal disease. These results indicate an ability of these compounds to work to downregulate bacterial genes associated with this pathway, and further restrict pathogen growth. Gene expression analysis also revealed a significant downregulation of infection-related genes in response to sodium fluoride, stannous chloride, and stannous fluoride, which has the effect of also reducing the virulence of the different bacteria. Bacterial degradation enzymes involved in the breakdown of host tissues and proteins to trigger inflammation and periodontal disease were also investigated via gene expression analysis. Results indicated a downregulation of these genes, particularly in response to stannous compounds, cetylpyridinium chloride, and sodium fluoride, with enzymes like hemolysin, which plays a role in red blood cell destruction and tissue damage, and collagenase, which allows bacteria to penetrate connective tissue and induce inflammation being significantly inhibited in response to these ingredients (Hu et al. , 2024). Conclusion The results of this study provide strong evidence to suggest the application of certain oral care product ingredients can significantly disrupt or alter the transcriptomic and metabolic activity of a variety of oral periodontopathogenic bacteria, with compounds like stannous fluoride, stannous chloride, and cetylpyridinium chloride being the most potent and players in triggering gene expression changes that lead to the inhibited growth and pathogenic activity of these bacteria, thus reducing their overall virulence and ability to trigger changes in the physical oral environment that induce progression of periodontal disease (Hu et al. , 2024). Strengths and Limitations of Research Strengths Allows for a more holistic discernment of how different chemical treatments can influence biological function by providing a community-wide perspective of how different microorganisms can respond to individual chemicals within oral care products rather than focusing on a single species or set of genes. By providing such a mechanistic understanding of these chemicals’ modes of action, it can allow for screening and ranking of ingredients for more efficient product formulations, as well as identifying compounds that hit different targets or different pathogens, further guiding product design (Hu et al. , 2024). Limitations Many of these studies still rely on 16S rRNA sequencing as a way to classify and determine compositional properties of the oral microbiome instead of high-throughput methods like shotgun metagenomic sequencing, limiting the resolution with which these microbial groups can be identified, and restricting the depth of functional gene analysis and exploration that can be achieved. This, therefore, limits the level of functional characterisation of oral biofilms that can be achieved using omics approaches (Xie et al. , 2025). Future Directions and Research Single-cell sequencing technologies can be implemented alongside existing multiomics approaches to enable the study of less abundant species of bacteria present within oral biofilms, as well as enabling targeted isolation and investigation of individual cell behaviors within complex microbial communities. This can provide further insight into health-disease markers associated with specific strains, and allow characterisation of the ecological profiles of previously unknown oral microbes and their response to various oral care products/formulations (Lin et al. , 2024). Conclusion Periodontal disease reflects a complex interplay between pathogenic bacteria, host responses, and environmental influences, with dysregulated microbial activity driving inflammation and tissue destruction. Growing evidence shows that oral care ingredients can influence not only bacterial survival but also key molecular pathways linked to virulence, immune activation, and tissue degradation. By modulating bacterial gene expression involved in processes such as endotoxin production, host tissue breakdown, and infection-related mechanisms, targeted formulations have the potential to reduce pathogenicity. Advancing molecular and multi-omics approaches offers a valuable framework for understanding these interactions at greater depth, supporting the development of more precise oral care strategies that better preserve oral health and help prevent disease progression. References Hu, P. et al.  (2024) ‘The Effect of Oral Care Product Ingredients on Oral Pathogenic Bacteria Transcriptomics Through RNA-Seq’, Microorganisms , 12(12), p. 2668. Available at:   https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12122668 . Lin, Y. et al.  (2024) ‘Omics for deciphering oral microecology’, International Journal of Oral Science , 16(1), p. 2. Available at:   https://doi.org/10.1038/s41368-023-00264-x . Xie, Q. et al.  (2025) ‘Comprehensive Analysis of Orthodontic Treatment Effects on the Oral Microbiome, Metabolome, and Associated Health Indicators’, International Dental Journal , 75(3), pp. 1585–1598. Available at:   https://doi.org/10.1016/j.identj.2025.02.014 .

Introduction  The oral cavity supports complex microbial communities that play a crucial role in both oral and systemic health. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Certain species, particularly Porphyromonas gingivalis , act as pathogens that promote disease progression even at low abundance. Oral biofilm development follows a structured sequence, beginning with early colonizers such as Streptococcus , which alter local conditions and enable later colonization by more pathogenic bacteria like Fusobacterium nucleatum . These shifts create anaerobic environments that support inflammation, tissue damage, and tooth loss. Increasing evidence also links periodontal disease to systemic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and chronic kidney disease, largely through persistent inflammation and the spread of bacterial components into the bloodstream (Ramji et al. , 2025). To better understand these complex interactions, multi-omics approaches, integrating genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic data, are increasingly being applied to oral health research. These methods have revealed associations between microbial composition, host responses, and disease progression, while also enabling the identification of biomarkers in oral fluids and tissues (Ramji et al. , 2025). Together, they provide a more comprehensive framework for evaluating disease mechanisms and guiding the development of targeted, evidence-based oral care interventions  Article:   Multi-Omics Insights into Gingivitis from a Clinical Trial: Understanding the Role of Bacterial and Host Factors (Ramji et al.,  2025) Using a multiomics approach combining salivary proteomics with microbial composition analysis, this 8-week study sought to investigate the effects of a stannous fluoride-containing toothpaste on oral microbiome composition, and host biomarker responses, in a cohort of patients divided into individuals with (high bleeders) or without (low bleeder) gingivitis to better understand the both molecular mechanisms by which this ingredient is able to influence microbiome structure and function, and its interactions with host tissues of the oral cavity, with particular emphasis on the supragingival region (Ramji et al. , 2025). Results Significant differences were observed between high and low bleeders at baseline, with the former possessing a greater abundance of bacterial genera associated with gingivitis, like Porphyromonas, Fusobacterium, and Alloprevotella  that were positively correlated with clinical measures like gingival inflammation and bleeding. However, after 4-weeks of stannous fluoride-containing toothpaste use, changes in the abundance of 17 bacterial genera were recorded. Compositional shifts that involved a significant decrease in the relative abundance of Porphyromonas ,   and significant increase in the relative abundance of commensal genera such as Rothia and Haemophilus , aligned with improved clinical signs like decreased bleeding and inflammation. These observations point to stannous fluoride as an effective treatment for unhealthy gingival microbiomes, where it works to promote growth of beneficial bacteria over pathogens, which could, in turn, reduce symptoms associated with gingivitis, like inflammation and oxidative stress. Proteomic analysis of saliva samples at baseline revealed a total of 192 host proteins displaying differential expression between the high and low bleeder group. Further enrichment analysis of these proteins showed biological processes such as tissue homeostasis and antimicrobial defence responses were downregulated in the high bleeders, rendering the oral cavity more susceptible to pathogen colonisation and impairing healing. On the other hand, processes related to immune system activity, response to stress, inflammatory response, and response to oxidative stress were upregulated, with this combination of processes possibly working to induce a dysregulated, pro-inflammatory oral environment that facilitates tissue destruction and disease progression. Of these 192 proteins, 71 were identified as host proteomic disease biomarkers of gingivitis. However, following 8-weeks of treatment with the stannous fluoride toothpaste, 29 of the proteins showed treatment-induced shifts from disease towards a healthier state. Other groups of proteins with improved expression included 69 (of the 192) proteins involved in antimicrobial responses, cell stress responses, and immune system processes that were downregulated after treatment, thus demonstrating the ability of stannous treatments to modulate immune activity, and reduce inflammation within the host oral environment to support improved tissue health and resilience. Collagen breakdown is a process associated with clinical markers like bleeding and gingival inflammation, as was observed at significantly higher proportions in the high-bleeder group than the low bleeder one. However, consistent use of the stannous fluoride toothpaste over the 8-week trial period was enough to result in a significant reduction in oral collagen breakdown and associated clinical markers in high bleeders. This result may be attributed to stannous fluoride’s ability to inhibit the activity of bacterial collagenase enzymes in pathobionts like F. nucleatum and P. gingivalis , which work to degrade host collagen tissue in the gingival region to cause physiological effects such as sagging, thus promoting preservation of oral tissue integrity (Ramji et al. , 2025). Conclusion Using an integrated multiomics approach, this study was able to provide a comprehensive overview of how a stannous fluoride toothpaste treatment can positively influence microbial community structure and metabolite profiles by reducing abundance of pathogenic bacteria, like Porphyromonas and Fusobacterium , and promoting growth of beneficial commensals such as Rothia and Haemophilus in individuals exhibiting clinical signs of gingivitis. These changes are also associated with reductions in the expression of disease biomarkers and proteins involved in processes like inflammation, oxidative stress, and tissue damage, while simultaneously improving the structural integrity of oral tissues that occur as a result of collagen breakdown (Ramji et al. , 2025). Strengths and Limitations of Research Strengths The use of multiomics approaches to examine the complex interplay between the microbiome, oral environment, and associated metabolites, can be used to facilitate the identification of specific microbial and metabolic biomarkers that can be used to monitor and track changes in oral health, paving the way for preventive care measures as well as informing the development of targeted therapeutic approaches with improved individual biocompatibility and minimal side effects to mitigate against disease-related changes (Ramji et al. , 2025). Limitations There are still very few multiomics studies available looking at the effects of oral care products on oral health as there is a relatively new focus on this type of research. As a result, our understanding of their effects on microbiome function remain limited, making it difficult to draw absolute conclusions regarding the effectiveness of certain products or oral care ingredients at promoting a healthy microbial community composition and function. Future Directions and Research Future integration of multiomics technologies (e.g., genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic data) systems biology, and synthetic biology may work to more effectively draw a link between microbial genes and different natural products, essentially allowing prediction of metabolites derived from the single microbe or community level, and facilitating the discovery of novel active molecules that can be used to drive product formulation for both cosmetic and therapeutic oral applications (Wu et al. , 2024).  Conclusion Together, advances in multi-omics research are transforming how oral health is understood and managed by revealing the complex interactions between microbial communities, host biology, and clinical outcomes. By moving beyond surface-level observations to capture functional and molecular changes, this approach provides a more precise framework for evaluating oral care ingredients, identifying important biomarkers, and supporting evidence-based product development. As this field continues to evolve, integrated biological insights will be essential for designing targeted, effective oral care solutions that promote long-term health, resilience, and disease prevention. References Ramji, N. et al.  (2025) ‘Multi-Omics Insights into Gingivitis from a Clinical Trial: Understanding the Role of Bacterial and Host Factors’, Microorganisms , 13(10), p. 2371. Available at:   https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13102371 . Wu, S. et al.  (2024) ‘Multi-omic analysis tools for microbial metabolites prediction’, Briefings in Bioinformatics , 25(4), p. bbae264. Available at:   https://doi.org/10.1093/bib/bbae264 .

Many people assume there is a single “healthy” or “perfect” microbiome to aim for, but in reality no two microbiomes are alike. Your skin’s microbiome is shaped by genetics, environment, ethnicity, lifestyle, hormones and even climate. Even people with the same skin type or routine can show distinct microbial profiles. What keeps one person’s skin balanced may do little for another, and in some cases can trigger disruption. What We Know: Research shows that: A healthy microbiome is better defined by how well it stays balanced and adapts to change (Prajapati et al, 2025).  People living in different regions, climates or environments can have entirely different microbiome compositions while remaining clinically healthy (Gupta et al, 2017).  Higher diversity is not automatically better—some healthy skin areas naturally have low diversity (Lloyd-Price et al, 2016).  Two people using the same product may have different outcomes because their microbiomes influence how that product behaves (Hwang et al, 2021).  Industry Impact And Potential: The absence of a “universal” microbiome profile fundamentally changes how skincare should be developed. This opens new strategic opportunities for brands to innovate beyond one-size-fits-all approaches, including: Creating routines built around baseline microbiome profiles, not generic skin types. Identifying “microbiome responders” and “non-responders,” helping refine targeting and reduce irritation-related returns. Developing demographic-specific formulations shaped by ethnicity, environment, hormonal phase or age. Strengthening claim credibility using measurable biological outcomes rather than assumed skin benefits. Our Solution: Sequential enables brands to turn microbiome individuality into evidence-based innovation. Using our global microbiome database of 50,000+ samples covering diverse geographies, ethnicities, life stages and skin states, we provide insight into how different cohorts respond to formulations. We help identify key biological differences between groups and translate these into clear formulation directions. By grounding innovation in measurable variation rather than assumptions, Sequential enables brands to create personalised, microbiome-safe solutions that genuinely meet user needs.  References: Gupta, V., et al. (2017) Geography, Ethnicity or Subsistence-Specific Variations in Human Microbiome Composition and Diversity.   Frontiers in Microbiology.   https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2017.01162 Hwang, B. K., et al. (2021) Effect of the skincare product on facial skin microbial structure and biophysical parameters: A pilot study.   MicrobiologyOpen.   https://doi.org/10.1002/mbo3.1236 Lloyd-Price, J., et al. (2016) The healthy human microbiome.   Genome Medicine.   https://doi.org/10.1186/s13073-016-0307-y Prajapati, S.K., et al. (2025) Microbiome and Postbiotics in Skin Health.   Biomedicines.   https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13040791

Introduction The oral cavity is one of the most structurally diverse environments in the human body, with a unique microbial ecosystem (i.e., microbiome) consisting of bacteria, fungi, viruses and other groups of microorganisms that inhabit and colonise its various physical niches like teeth, gingiva, inner cheeks and saliva (Reynoso-García et al. , 2022). Here, these microbes play a vital role in driving oral health and disease progression, with the majority of bacteria in the oral cavity forming structured microbial biofilms where they carry out functions related to pH regulation, host immune modulation, and nutrient metabolism (Chandra Nayak et al. , 2025).  Some commensal species, like Streptococcus mitis  and Veillonella parvula , are also able to further maintain oral homeostasis by executing antagonistic effects that restrict the growth of periodontopathogens like Porphyromonas gingivalis  and Tannerella forsythia , and cariogenic (decay-causing) species like Streptococcus mutans  (Reynoso-García et al. , 2022; Bloch et al. , 2024). Colonisation by these bacteria can cause inflammatory tissue destruction that drives the progression of periodontal disease, or the production of acids that erode dental enamel and cause dental cavities (Chandra Nayak et al. , 2025). Beyond diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption, one of the key factors that can drive the growth of these pathogens is lack of adherence to proper hygiene practices. Poor oral hygiene habits, such as inadequate brushing and flossing, can increase risk of oral disease progression by promoting biofilm formation and the proliferation of pathogenic species that can disrupt the composition and functioning of the oral microbial community by pushing it towards dysbiosis (Rajasekaran et al. , 2024). Preventative measures to stop this from happening include observation of proper oral hygiene practices and regular use of oral care products like mouthwash, toothpaste, floss string, and interdental brushes to maintain a healthy oral environment that favours the growth of beneficial microbial species over harmful ones (Gallione et al. , 2025). Multiomics (i.e., multiple omics) is an emerging interdisciplinary approach that has permitted a more detailed investigation into the mechanistic mode of action of these oral care products and their overall effect on oral microbial communities. By capturing and integrating data from multiple layers of biological information (e.g., genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics), multiomics has provided a more comprehensive understanding of product influence over the complex network of interactions underlying these oral microbial communities and host tissues, as well as changes they may induce to the compositional and functional properties of the oral microbiome (Ramji et al. , 2025). This improved mechanistic understanding can be used in future to facilitate the development of more efficacious personal care products and individualised, targeted therapeutics for oral care. Article 1: A randomised, double-blind clinical study into the effect of zinc citrate trihydrate toothpaste on oral plaque microbiome ecology and function (Adams et al.,  2025) This 6-week clinical study aimed to assess the impact of a zinc citrate trihydrate toothpaste (zinc toothpaste) formulation on dental biofilm ecology and function. By using a combined multiomics approach integrating data from metataxonomic, metagenomic, and metatranscriptomic layers, this study looked to provide a detailed analysis of the structural and functional metabolic changes that occur in dental biofilm communities upon exposure to the zinc toothpaste, while also elucidating its mechanism of action and ability to maintain oral hygiene in comparison to a fluoride toothpaste over the course of the study period (Adams et al.,  2025). Results Species-level community analysis of the collected plaque samples revealed significant differences in community composition between users of the zinc toothpaste and users of a fluoride toothpaste after 6-weeks of consistent product use, with significant shifts in composition observed for the zinc toothpaste that were absent in the fluoride group. Furthermore, significant shifts in the relative abundance of 30 taxa were observed for the zinc toothpaste group, while only 8 were observed for the control toothpaste.  In the case of the zinc toothpaste, this included an increase in the abundance of groups like Streptococcus  and Veillonella , core genera associated with a healthy mouth, and a marked decrease in the abundance of Fusobacterium nucleatum subsp. Polymorphum , an opportunistic oral pathogen whose activity has been linked to the maturation of oral biofilm to facilitate the growth of species associated with inflammation and gum disease. Application of the zinc toothpaste also reduced the amount of Porphyromonas pasteri  in the oral cavity, another pathogenic species whose presence has been linked to oral malodour. While the fluoride toothpaste group also displayed changes in some taxa, such as Staphylococcus epidermidis  and Haemophilus haemolyticus , these were far more minimal than the zinc toothpaste, demonstrating the ability of zinc-containing toothpastes to more effectively promote growth of beneficial bacteria at the expense of oral pathogens. Combined metagenomic and metatranscriptomic analyses of these oral microbial communities later found an inhibition of bacterial genes associated with sugar metabolism after zinc toothpaste usage, something that could have implications for reduced production of biofilm metabolites like lactic acid that are damaging to dental enamel. Conversely, an increase in the lysine biosynthesis pathway, a process that has been linked to gum attachment and maintenance, was also observed following use of zinc toothpaste, as well as an increase in nitrogen metabolism and nitrate reduction, which has positive implications for whole-body health, demonstrating the ability of zinc toothpastes to boost genes and metabolic processes associated with good oral health compared to fluoride toothpastes, whose effects on sugar metabolism, lysine biosynthesis, and nitrogen metabolism were far less significant (Adams et al.,  2025). Conclusion This study was able to successfully demonstrate the beneficial effects of using a zinc-containing toothpaste product on the structure and function of the oral microbiome. Use of this toothpaste was shown to be far more effective in modulating oral health than a traditional fluoride one, with significant shifts in both the composition and metabolic activity of these microbial communities being observed after 8-weeks of use. This included triggering an increase in the abundance of beneficial, protective bacteria like Streptococcus and Veillonella , decrease in the abundance of harmful pathobionts like Fusobacterium , as well as suppressing metabolic pathways could push the oral environment in an unhealthy direction to impede disease progression and pathogen colonisation (Adams et al.,  2025).  Strengths and Limitations of Research Strengths Multiomics can also provide a more well-rounded assessment of oral product efficacy during testing by examining their effect on microbiome function in response to product use . This can include elucidating the specific mechanisms by which oral hygiene products or ingredients are able to influence different members of the oral microbiota, while also permitting an improved understanding of significant microbial interactions and their influence over disease modulation and treatment strategies (Adams et al.,  2025; Chandra Nayak et al. , 2025). Limitations The use of dental plaque collection to monitor product effects in many oral multiomics studies can be problematic with regards to the varied composition of bacterial flora at different sites within the oral cavity, and even between surfaces of the same tooth, leading to less precise estimates of community composition at the individual level, and raising issues when tracking compositional shifts over the course of a clinical trial. Collection from predetermined plaque sites can also make it difficult to draw accurate comparisons between healthy and diseased participants, as diseased groups might include samples collected from a mixture of diseased and non-diseased sites (Yama et al. , 2023). Future Directions and Research Microflora imaging approaches may provide information on spatial distribution and microbial activity within the oral microbiota, with techniques such as fluorescence imaging, mass spectrometry, and Raman spectroscopy, enabling direct visualisation of metabolic substrates (e.g., sugars, amino acids, and nucleic acids) and their chemical activity in response to certain oral care ingredients. This can be used to provide an extra layer of depth when evaluating the efficacy of certain oral care products and therapeutics (Lin et al. , 2024). Conclusion Multiomics provides an interdisciplinary approach to studying oral health and the microbiome, with research increasingly focusing on the application of these technologies for the development of oral care ingredients and their effects on the microbiome and host oral environment. Certain products and ingredients that have shown potential as effective agents for oral health modulation include stannous compounds and zinc, with such multiomic approaches further paving the way to better understanding their mode of action, as well as their dynamic interplay with oral biomarkers, with many positive implications for product formulations and oral monitoring. However, much work remains to be done to improve the robustness and accuracy of this field of research. Improving these limitations can pave the way for the development of more effective oral care products and treatments for various oral conditions, product testing, and preventative diagnostic therapeutics. References Adams, S.E. et al.  (2025) ‘A randomised, double-blind clinical study into the effect of zinc citrate trihydrate toothpaste on oral plaque microbiome ecology and function’, Scientific Reports , 15, p. 8136. Available at:   https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-92545-0 . Bloch, S. et al.  (2024) ‘Oral streptococci: modulators of health and disease’, Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology , 14, p. 1357631. Available at:   https://doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2024.1357631 . Chandra Nayak, S. et al.  (2025) ‘The Oral Microbiome and Systemic Health: Bridging the Gap Between Dentistry and Medicine’, Cureus , 17(2), p. e78918. Available at:   https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.78918 . Gallione, C. et al.  (2025) ‘Oral Health Care: A Systematic Review of Clinical Practice Guidelines’, Nursing & Health Sciences , 27(1), p. e70027. Available at:   https://doi.org/10.1111/nhs.70027 . Lin, Y. et al.  (2024) ‘Omics for deciphering oral microecology’, International Journal of Oral Science , 16(1), p. 2. Available at:   https://doi.org/10.1038/s41368-023-00264-x . Rajasekaran, J.J. et al.  (2024) ‘Oral Microbiome: A Review of Its Impact on Oral and Systemic Health’, Microorganisms , 12(9), p. 1797. Available at:   https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12091797 . Ramji, N. et al.  (2025) ‘Multi-Omics Insights into Gingivitis from a Clinical Trial: Understanding the Role of Bacterial and Host Factors’, Microorganisms , 13(10), p. 2371. Available at:   https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13102371 . Reynoso-García, J. et al.  (2022) ‘A complete guide to human microbiomes: Body niches, transmission, development, dysbiosis, and restoration’, Frontiers in Systems Biology , 2. Available at:   https://doi.org/10.3389/fsysb.2022.951403 . 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Skin sensitivity is often treated as a surface level reaction, yet it can reflect a loss of microbial diversity and function. When microbial networks lose complexity and diversity, it can disrupt the production of microbial metabolites that are essential for maintaining skin barrier integrity, and modulating immune responses. This can lead to heightened stinging, redness, and reactivity to products previously tolerated.   What we know: Research has shown that: Reduced microbial diversity limits the production of beneficial metabolites (e.g. short chain fatty acids) that support barrier function, making skin more vulnerable to irritation (Prescott et al, 2017). Loss of microbial balance alters immune signalling pathways, increasing the likelihood of redness, stinging and inflammatory responses (Zhang et al, 2024). Treatments that strip or over-exfoliate the skin can extend irritation cycles, slowing recovery and increasing reactivity over time (Prescott et al, 2017). When microbial recovery is slow, sensitivity persists over time, meaning products that were once tolerated can suddenly trigger discomfort (Mim et al, 2024)   Industry impact and potential: This unlocks a new approach to caring for sensitive skin: Products that help the skin recover and stay balanced, rather than just masking symptoms. Ingredients designed to work gently and gradually, based on how much the skin can tolerate. Cleansers and bases that don’t strip away helpful bacteria, reducing everyday irritation. Clear, evidence-based guidance that supports people with reactive or easily irritated skin.   Our solution: Grounded in robust microbiome science, Sequential enables brands to develop targeted, biologically safe and resilience-focused solutions for sensitive-skin users. With a global microbiome database of over 50,000 samples, we can help you understand how sensitivity varies across different populations, environments and lifestyles. This allows us to guide you in designing formulations that genuinely support diverse skin needs rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.   References: Mim, M., et al. (2024). The dynamic relationship between skin microbiomes and personal care products: A comprehensive review. Heliyon, 10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34549 . Prescott, S., et al. (2017). The skin microbiome: impact of modern environments on skin ecology, barrier integrity, and systemic immune programming. The World Allergy Organization Journal, 10. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40413-017-0160-5 . Zhang, X., et al. (2024). Microbiome: Role in Inflammatory Skin Diseases. Journal of Inflammation Research, 17, pp. 1057 - 1082. https://doi.org/10.2147/jir.s441100 .

With LED face masks and light-based skincare rapidly increasing in popularity, light has become a new frontier in skin health. Previously seen as a threat and something that we needed to block or avoid, light is now being seen as therapeutic tool. Yet beyond the visible changes to tone and texture, light also interacts with the skin microbiome. Understanding how different wavelengths influence this ecosystem is key to ensuring that light enhances, rather than harms, our skin’s microbial balance. What we know: Each wavelength of light interacts differently with both skin cells and the microbes that live on them. Of the wavelengths, red and blue have been found to have the best therapeutic benefits. Blue light (400–470 nm) has been shown to target bacteria like Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus , species commonly linked to acne and inflammation. By interacting with microbial chromophores, it produces reactive oxygen species that damage bacterial membranes. This can help rebalance the microbiome when used at the right dose (Plattfaut et al., 2021). Red light (620–750 nm), has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and tissue-repair properties. It’s widely used in photobiomodulation therapy and research suggests that red light can enhance wound healing and reduce bacterial load when paired with blue light (Lee  et al , 2007). Together, these wavelengths demonstrate that light can influence microbial composition and function, not just skin appearance. But precision matters: the wrong dose or wavelength could just as easily disrupt the skin microbiome. Industry Impact and Potential As light-based therapies and tools move from specialist clinic to home use, understanding their microbiome impact becomes essential. The skin microbiome is now a critical factor in dermatological science and, consumer skincare innovation must consider the impact in respect to the microbiome. Emerging research hints at the potential of personalised phototherapy tuned to an individual’s microbiome composition. Microbiome-safe LED protocols that support healthy microbial diversity. Combinations of blue and red light that offer both microbial control and skin repair. These developments can help us redefine how we think about light, as a precision tool for microbial balance. Our solution: Sequential is at the forefront of microbiome product testing and development, providing tailored solutions to understand how environmental factors, such as light, influence the skin microbiome. Using advanced research techniques and supported with a database o f over 50,000 human samples, Sequential offers comprehensive services to evaluate product impacts and formulations on the skin microbiome.   Our goal is to provide science-driven insights that help brands design light-based treatments and formulations that work with the microbiome, not against it. References: Lee, S., You, C., & Park, M., 2007. Blue and red light combination LED phototherapy for acne vulgaris in patients with skin phototype IV.  Lasers in Surgery and Medicine , 39. https://doi.org/10.1002/LSM.20412 . Plattfaut, I., Demir, E., Fuchs, P., Schiefer, J., Stürmer, E., Brüning, A., & Opländer, C., 2021. Characterization of Blue Light Treatment for Infected Wounds: Antibacterial Efficacy of 420, 455, and 480 nm Light-Emitting Diode Arrays Against Common Skin Pathogens Versus Blue Light- Induced Skin Cell Toxicity.  Photobiomodulation, photomedicine, and laser surgery , 39 5, pp. 339-348.

During pregnancy, the skin microbiome undergoes significant shifts.  Across the trimesters, both the composition and behaviour of skin bacteria change. Postpartum, the maternal skin microbiome continues to evolve which is influenced by hormonal resets, environmental exposures, and hygiene practices. These shifts can also influence an infant’s earliest microbial encounters, during a critical period of skin development. What We Know: Pregnancy significantly changes the skin microbiota with key bacteria diminishing in the first trimester (Radocchia et al,  2024).  Progressing through the trimesters, the microbiome becomes simpler as highly connected species decline, reducing microbial resilience (Mesa et al, 2020). This impacts the skin’s barrier function, making the skin more susceptible to dryness, irritation, and inflammation (Radocchia et al,  2024). Maternal microbiome changes during pregnancy and postpartum can influence infant skin health and early dermatological risk (Mutic et al,  2017).   Industry Impact and Potential Pregnancy and postpartum present an innovative opportunity for microbiome-focused skincare. Barrier-focused care for sensitive and reactive skin: As microbial networks decline in complexity, barrier function becomes more vulnerable. pH-balanced systems, ceramides, and gentle formulations can help maintain stability. Probiotic and prebiotic skincare: Targeted probiotic or prebiotic formulations can help restore microbial diversity, reduce inflammation, and strengthen skin resilience. Education and transparency:  Clear labelling (e.g., “microbiome-safe,” “pregnancy-safe”) and guidance on supportive vs. avoidable ingredients empower informed decision-making. Our Solution At Sequential, we connect advanced microbiome science with real-world product innovation to support maternal skin health during pregnancy and postpartum. We apply advanced microbiome profiling and multi-omic analysis to help brands understand how pregnancy and postpartum affect skin microbial balance. With a global database of 50,000+ samples and customised testing platforms, we assess whether formulations are microbiome-safe, gentle for pregnancy, and supportive of beneficial bacteria. Through targeted studies and formulation guidance, we enable science-backed products that protect maternal skin. References : Mesa, M. et al. (2020). The Evolving Microbiome from Pregnancy to Early Infancy: A Comprehensive Review. Nutrients, 12.  https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12010133 Mutic, A. et al. (2017). The Postpartum Maternal and Newborn Microbiomes.  MCN: The American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing, 42, 326–331. https://doi.org/10.1097/nmc.0000000000000374 Radocchia, G. et al. (2024). Women Skin Microbiota Modifications during Pregnancy.  Microorganisms, 12(4), 808. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12040808

Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a common inflammatory skin condition primarily affecting the scalp, face and chest. It appears as red, flaky, greasy patches or plaques and can cause itching and discomfort. It is a non-contagious condition varying in severity, from mild dandruff to persistent inflamed lesions. What we know: SD is linked to three main factors: increased sebum (oil) production, colonization by Malassezia  yeast, and an abnormal immune response. Genetics, skin barrier dysfunction, environmental triggers and stress also contribute to this condition (Adalsteinsson et al,  2020). Malassezia species, especially M.restricta  and M. globosa , are abundant in SD. These yeasts hydrolyse skin lipids, producing irritating fatty acids that drive inflammation (Tao et al , 2021). SD skin shows increased transepidermal water loss, reduced ceramides, and altered lipid composition, increasing irritation and microbial imbalance (Wikramanayake et al , 2019). Research highlights SD occurs across all skin types with treatment needs with preferred treatments varying across the population (Polaskey et al , 2024).   Industry impact and potential As insights into SD evolve, the industry has a unique chance to create smarter and more inclusive solutions. Microbiome-targeted products: Products that help regulate microbial balance, particularly, may help reduce flare-ups while preserving beneficial species. Barrier-supportive solutions: Lipids, ceramides, and pH-balanced systems can strengthen and enhance barrier resilience, addressing underlying weakness. Inclusive and culturally sensitive solutions: Treatments designed and tested across all skin tones and hair textures can ensure effectiveness across diverse users. Simplified treatment routines: Streamlined regimes can help to address consumer frustration with persistent symptoms and complex, time-consuming treatment. Our solution At Sequential, we support the development of next-generation seborrheic dermatitis solutions through deep microbiome profiling and multi-omic analysis. With a global database of 50,000+ samples, we help brands understand how Malassezia, bacterial communities, and barrier function interact across different skin and scalp types. We assess whether formulations rebalance the microbiome, strengthen the barrier, and target inflammation-related biomarkers, enabling the creation of microbiome-safe, inclusive, and effective products. Grounded in robust microbiome science, Sequential empowers brands to deliver targeted and culturally sensitive solutions for seborrheic dermatitis.   References: Adalsteinsson, J. et al. (2020)  Experimental Dermatology . https://doi.org/10.1111/exd.14091 Polaskey, M. et al. (2024)  JAMA Dermatology . https://doi.org/10.1001/jamadermatol.2024.1987 Tao, R. et al. (2021)  Experimental Dermatology . https://doi.org/10.1111/exd.14450 Wikramanayake, T. et al. (2019)  Experimental Dermatology . https://doi.org/10.1111/exd.140 06

Protein may be best known for building muscle, but in skincare, it plays an equally vital role. From the nutrients we eat to the peptides in formulations, protein helps power the strength, and resilience of our skin, showing that real skin health starts from both inside and out.   What we know: Despite its reputation as a nutritional staple, protein plays a foundational role in skin biology and microbiome health. Research shows that: Collagen, elastin, and keratin form the skin’s structural framework, influencing elasticity, firmness, and barrier integrity. When these proteins degrade, skin becomes more fragile and slower to repair (Solano, 2020). Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) both inhibit harmful microbes and maintain a balanced microbiome, vital for barrier function (Rademacher et al, 2021). Peptides influence the composition of the wound microbiome, promoting beneficial bacteria and suppressing harmful species, which further accelerates healing (Adnan et al, 2025). Industry impact and solution: The expanding understanding of protein’s role in skin and microbial health presents exciting opportunities for targeted innovation. Peptide-driven repair systems: Bioactive peptides support collagen synthesis, accelerate healing, and reinforce the skin barrier, offering targeted solutions for fragile or compromised skin. This immediate potential is matched by a crucial need for deeper scientific understanding, particularly when considering: Long-term research and safety innovation: The lasting effects of continuous peptide or protein exposure on the skin microbiome remain unclear, with most studies focusing on short-term outcomes like wound healing and immediate microbial shifts.   Our solution: At Sequential, we help brands innovate confidently with protein- and peptide-based formulations. Using our science-driven microbiome testing and a database of 50,000+ samples, 4,000 ingredients, and 10,000+ global participants, we provide clear insights into how peptides and proteins influence the skin and its microbiome. Our customisable studies replicate real-world conditions to assess safety, efficacy, and long-term microbiome impact—supported by expert formulation guidance References : Adnan, S. et al. (2025). Antimicrobial peptides in wound healing and skin regeneration. Int. J. Mol. Sci., 26.   https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26135920 Rademacher, F., Gläser, R. & Harder, J. (2021). Antimicrobial peptides and proteins: Interaction with the skin microbiota. Exp. Dermatol., 30, 1496–1508.   https://doi.org/10.1111/exd.14433 Solano, F. (2020). Metabolism and functions of amino acids in the skin. Adv. Exp. Med. Biol., 1265, 187–199.   https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-45328-2_11