Search Results

Job Listings Job Type Select Job Type Workspace Select Workspace Search Jobs Number of jobs found: 3 Laboratory Technician Cambridge, UK View Job Marketing Associate Cambridge, UK View Job Sales Associate (NYC Based) New York, NY, USA View Job

Partner with a specialist CRO for microbiome, genomic, and biomarker analysis. Support complex studies with integrated, high-quality data. Extend your clinical capabilities with microbiome & multi-omics expertise SKIN | SCALP | INTIMATE | ORAL We partner with CROs to provide advanced microbiome, genomic, and biomarker analysis—supporting complex study requirements without compromising timelines, quality, or client expectations. Extend your study capabilities A specialist partner, integrated into your workflow Sequential acts as an embedded scientific partner, supporting CROs with advanced biological analysis while allowing you to retain full ownership of client relationships. We provide: Microbiome sequencing and analysis Multi-omics and genomic profiling Biomarker-driven study design Condition-specific expertise in dermatology Our team integrates seamlessly into your study workflow, ensuring: aligned protocols consistent data quality efficient communication across stakeholders When study complexity exceeds internal capabilities As clinical studies evolve, sponsors increasingly require: microbiome analysis genomic and epigenetic profiling biomarker-driven endpoints For many CROs, these capabilities are: not available in-house difficult to build quickly or inefficient to scale for specific studies This creates risk: delays in study delivery reliance on fragmented external vendors challenges maintaining quality and consistency Multi-omics expertise on demand Access advanced capabilities without the need to build internal infrastructure. Seamless integration into your workflows We operate as an extension of your team, aligning with your protocols, timelines, and client requirements. Quality reproducible data & results Validated assays, SOP-controlled processes, and in-house analysis ensure consistent, reliable outputs. A collaborative, CRO-aligned approach 1 Study Protocols Integration We align with your study design, endpoints, and client requirements to ensure seamless integration. 2 Sampling & Assay Execution We support non-invasive sampling and run validated microbiome and multi-omics assays under controlled conditions. 3 In-house analysis & interpretation All data is processed internally, ensuring quality, speed, and scientific consistency. 4 Reporting & delivery We deliver clear, structured outputs that integrate directly into your study reports and client deliverables. Results Sequential Patch Results Multi-Omics Results Packages

What Disrupts the Skin Microbiome? What Disrupts the Skin Microbiome? The skin microbiome is an intricate ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that protect and maintain skin health (Smythe & Wilkinson, 2023). It acts as a defence against harmful pathogens, regulates inflammation, and supports the skin’s overall barrier function. However, disruptions to this microbiome can eventually lead to skin issues like acne, eczema, and various skin infections (Wallen-Russell, 2019). Understanding these disruptions is key to making informed choices about skincare, diet, and lifestyle to promote healthy skin. 1. Harsh Skincare Products Personal care products like soaps and lotions can disrupt the skin microbiome by removing natural oils and beneficial microbes. Many contain harsh chemicals, such as preservatives and fragrances, which reduce microbial diversity and promote the growth of harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus. A study by Wallen-Russel (2018) found that synthetic ingredients generally lower the positive effects on skin biodiversity. Using essential, pH-balanced skincare products is recommended to maintain a healthy skin microbiome. 2. Antibiotics and Medications The use of antibiotics is a major disruptor of the skin microbiome. While antibiotics are essential for treating bacterial infections, their overuse or misuse can eliminate beneficial bacteria alongside harmful pathogens. This disruption can lead to a decrease in microbial diversity and the dominance of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which may contribute to skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Studies have shown that prolonged antibiotic use can have lasting effects on the skin's microbial communities, making it more prone to dysbiosis and related diseases (Byrd et al., 2018). 3. Environmental Factors Environmental exposures are a major cause of skin microbiome disruption. Pollution, particularly airborne particulate matter and toxins, weakens the skin barrier and alters microbial diversity by causing oxidative stress and inflammation. This imbalance favours harmful microbes while reducing beneficial ones. Araviiskaia et al. (2019) found that chronic inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis tend to worsen in individuals, including children, when exposed to high pollution levels. While moderate sun exposure is beneficial, excessive UV exposure can cause acute and chronic skin damage, including inflammation, premature ageing, and increased cancer risk. Patra, Sérézal & Wolf (2020) highlights how UV radiation disrupts the skin microbiome, potentially leading to dysbiosis and compromised skin health. 4. Diet and Lifestyle Diet and lifestyle choices can also direct the overall health of the skin microbiome. Ghosh, McMahon & Lappin (2021) revealed that a plant-based diet can positively influence the skin microbiome, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby supporting overall skin health. Conversely, diets high in processed foods and saturated fats can negatively impact the microbiome and lead to health issues, including skin conditions. 5. Stress and Hormonal Changes Stress can significantly impact the skin microbiome, primarily through hormonal and behavioural changes. Stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to increased production of cortisol and other stress hormones. This hormonal response can cause inflammation and immune dysregulation, which may exacerbate various skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne. Additionally, stress can lead to changes in behaviour, such as neglecting skincare routines or engaging in unhealthy habits (e.g., smoking, poor diet) that further disrupt the skin microbiome (Holmes et al., 2015). Reference Araviiskaia, E., Berardesca, E., Bieber, T., Gontijo, G., Sanchez Viera, M., Marrot, L., Chuberre, B., & Dreno, B. (2019). The impact of airborne pollution on skin. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology : JEADV, 33(8), 1496–1505. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.15583 Byrd, A. L., Belkaid, Y., & Segre, J. A. (2018). The human skin microbiome. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 16(3), 143-155. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrmicro.2017.157 Ghosh, S., McMahon, A., & Lappin, D. F. (2021). The relationship between diet, gut microbiota, and skin health. Nutrients, 13(5), 1568. Holmes, C. J., Plichta, J. K., Gamelli, R. L., & Radek, K. A. (2015). Dynamic Role of Host Stress Responses in Modulating the Cutaneous Microbiome: Implications for Wound Healing and Infection. Advances in wound care, 4(1), 24–37. https://doi.org/10.1089/wound.2014.0546 Patra, V., Sérézal, I. G., & Wolf, P. (2020). Potential of Skin Microbiome, Pro- and/or Pre-Biotics to Affect Local Cutaneous Responses to UV Exposure. Nutrients, 12(6), 1795. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12061795 Smythe, P., & Wilkinson, H. N. (2023). The skin microbiome: Current landscape and future opportunities. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(4), 3950. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24043950 Wallen-Russell, C. (2018). The role of Every-Day Cosmetics in Altering the skin Microbiome: A study using biodiversity. Cosmetics, 6(1), 2. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics6010002 Wallen-Russell, C. (2019). The impact of skin care products on skin chemistry and microbiome dynamics. BMC Biology, 17(1), 47. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12915-019-0660-6

Are you looking to test your formulation through the lens of the microbiome? Sequential is the partner you need to structure your study, recruit participants and analyze your results with our sequencing reports.

What are the Best Microbiome Tests? What are the Best Microbiome Tests? As interest in the human microbiome grows, various microbiome tests have emerged, each offering unique insights into our health. Understanding which tests are best suited for individual needs can help inform decisions regarding health management and lifestyle changes. Skin Microbiome Testing Skin microbiome testing involves collecting samples from the skin's surface using methods like swabs, tape strips, or skin scrapings to analyse the diversity and composition of microorganisms residing on the skin. The samples are then processed through DNA sequencing techniques to identify microbial species and their relative abundance. This testing provides insights into how the skin's microbial ecosystem impacts health conditions such as acne and eczema. Skin microbiome research is increasingly being used to develop personalised skincare products and therapeutic approaches. (Byrd et al., 2018) Stool Microbiome Testing Stool testing remains one of the most common and accessible methods for analysing the gut microbiome. These tests evaluate the diversity and abundance of microbial species, helping to identify imbalances linked to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and obesity. A study by Zhernakova et al. (2016) emphasises the utility of stool microbiome tests in detecting dysbiosis and understanding its relationship to health outcomes. Saliva Microbiome Testing Saliva microbiome testing is another non-invasive method, focusing on the oral microbiota. This test can provide insights into oral health, periodontal disease, and even systemic health conditions linked to the oral microbiome. A study by Aas et al. (2005) illustrates that the oral microbiome reflects changes in health status, making saliva testing an essential tool for early disease detection. Blood Microbiome Testing While less common, blood microbiome testing is gaining traction, especially for identifying systemic infections or chronic conditions. This testing method analyses microbial DNA present in the bloodstream, which can reveal insights into conditions like sepsis and cardiovascular diseases. A paper by Cheng et al. (2023) reviews the emerging concept of the blood microbiome, highlighting its potential role in human health and disease, while addressing existing controversies and the need for further research to understand its clinical implications. Tissue Biopsy Microbiome Testing Tissue biopsies are increasingly utilised for studying the microbiome within specific organs, particularly the gastrointestinal tract. This method allows for direct analysis of microbial communities in tissue samples, providing insights into diseases such as colorectal cancer and IBD. Recent advancements in next-generation sequencing have enhanced the ability to identify and characterise microbial populations in biopsies, as noted by Schulfer and Blaser (2015). Conclusion Choosing the right microbiome test depends on individual health concerns and goals. Stool and saliva tests are excellent for general gut and oral health insights, while blood and tissue tests offer deeper analysis for chronic diseases. As research continues to evolve, these tests will likely become even more integral to personalised healthcare and preventative strategies. References Aas, J. A., Paster, B. J., Stokes, L. N., Olsen, I., & Dewhirst, F. E. (2005). Defining the normal bacterial flora of the oral cavity. Journal of Clinical Microbiology, 43(11), 5721-5732. https://doi.org/10.1128/JCM.43.11.5721-5732.2005 Byrd, A. L., Belkaid, Y., & Segre, J. A. (2018). The human skin microbiome. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 16(3), 143-155. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrmicro.2017.157 Cheng, H. S., Tan, S. P., Wong, D. M. K., Koo, W. L. Y., Wong, S. H., & Tan, N. S. (2023). The blood microbiome and health: Current evidence, controversies, and challenges. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(6), 5633. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24065633 Schulfer, A., & Blaser, M. J. (2015). Risks of antibiotic exposures early in life on the developing microbiome. PLoS Pathogens, 11(7), e1004903. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.ppat.1004903 Zhernakova, A., Kurilshikov, A., Bonder, M. J., Tigchelaar, E. F., Schirmer, M., Vatanen, T., ... & Wijmenga, C. (2016). Population-based metagenomics analysis reveals markers for gut microbiome composition and diversity. Science, 352(6285), 565-569. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aad3369

How do you know if your microbiome is off? How do you know if your microbiome is off? What is the microbiome? The human microbiome is defined as the full array of microorganisms, and their genomes, that live in and on humans. These microorganisms inhabit a particular site of the human body and form distinct microbial communities (microbiota) such as those found on the skin or the scalp microbiome. The composition of an individual's microbiome can be influenced by several factors such as age, environment and method of birth. Without testing, there are a few signs that can indicate whether your microbiome is potentially off-balance. An imbalance in the microbiome, also known as dysbiosis, can manifest as a condition in different body areas such as acne vulgaris or dandruff. In this post, we explore potential signs of imbalance in the skin, scalp, oral and vaginal microbiomes. Signs of a skin microbiome imbalance Skin-resident microbes inherently help to maintain a healthy skin barrier, however, if disrupted, changes in the skin microbiome can lead to inflammation, dryness, irritation and itchy skin (Skowron et al., 2021). Several studies have also shown that dysbiosis is implicated in the manifestation of inflammatory skin conditions such as acne and atopic dermatitis. Acne One of the major factors involved in acne pathogenesis is thought to be an imbalance of the bacteria Cutibacterium acnes. Although C.acnes is also present on healthy skin, studies show that a loss of microbial diversity and loss of balance between C. acnes phylotypes appears to play a role in the triggering of acne (Dréno et al., 2020). Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) Studies have shown that individuals with atopic dermatitis have a disturbed skin microbiome and are more often colonised with Staphylococcus aureus compared to healthy individuals. The presence of S. aureus contributes to the inflamed, dry and itchy skin commonly experienced by individuals with atopic dermatitis. Signs of a scalp microbiome imbalance Studies have revealed that the scalp microbiome is characterized by a relatively low bacterial diversity, as compared to the other body sites and is dominated by Cutibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Malassezia spp (Saxena et al.,2021). Dysbiosis of the scalp microbiome has been linked to conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. Seborrheic Dermatitis Seborrheic dermatitis is a common chronic, inflammatory skin disease that can affect the scalp and other sebum-gland-rich areas of the body. Scalp seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a chronic type of inflammatory dermatosis associated with the proliferation of Malassezia species (Wang et al., 2021). The common signs of seborrheic dermatitis are flaking, scaling and inflammation. Dandruff Dandruff is a light disease state of seborrheic dermatitis, also associated with the proliferation of Malassezia species. Thus, scalp microbiome dysbiosis may present itself as dandruff, characterised by mild inflammatory reactions that present as abnormal flaking of the scalp and sometimes with mild erythema (redness). Signs of an oral microbiome imbalance The oral microbiome comprises a complex and diverse community of microorganisms living within the oral cavity and is the third most diverse after the gut and skin microbiome. Changes in the oral cavity can lead to dysbiosis which has been associated with the development of diseases such as periodontitis and gingivitis. Periodontitis (Gum Disease) Periodontitis, otherwise known as gum disease, is an irreversible inflammatory condition that affects over half of the world’s population and is a major cause of tooth loss. Although the cause of periodontitis is multifactorial, the presence of plaque is thought to be the primary factor. Plaque is formed when salivary glycoproteins adhere to the tooth surface, creating an environment for both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria to colonise. It is the uncontrolled growth of the Gram-negative component of subgingival biofilm that leads to periodontitis (Aruni et al., 2015). Common signs of periodontitis include persistent bad breath, swollen gums and loose teeth. Gingivitis Gingivitis and periodontitis are a continuum of the same inflammatory disease, whereby gingivitis may lead to periodontitis if left untreated. Dysbiosis in the oral microbiome may manifest as gingivitis which is characterised by red, swollen and bleeding gums. Signs of a vaginal microbiome imbalance Vaginal microbiota constitutes about 9% of the total human microbiota. These microbes live in a mutualistic relationship with the host vagina protecting it from potentially pathogenic microbes like those causing bacterial vaginosis (Saraf et al., 2021). Bacterial Vaginosis Changes in the vaginal microbiota including a loss of Lactobacillus species and an increase in facultative and anaerobic organism populations result in bacterial vaginosis (Saraf et al., 2021). This imbalance in the vaginal microbiome often leads to unusual discharge. In summary Whilst these signs can indicate a potential imbalance in your microbiome, they can also be caused by other factors. Microbiome testing would be ideal to provide certainty of an imbalance, however not many personal care brands offer this method of diagnosis to consumers. One example of a skincare brand that does offer this service is Gallinée, enabling personalised skin routine recommendations via an in-depth skin health report. Advice for brands We recommend differentiating your brand by harnessing the power of microbiome testing. The results of our market research on over 3,500 participants found that 80% demand a customised microbiome-based skincare product that factors ethnicity, age, location and skin concerns. By conducting in vivo testing on your products you can ensure they maintain the microbiome. Additionally, we can partner with your brand to offer our at-home skin microbiome testing kit, allowing you to provide skin health reports and personalised product recommendations to your customers based on their individual microbiome profiles. References Aruni, A. W., Dou, Y., Mishra, A., & Fletcher, H. M. (2015). The biofilm community: Rebels with a cause. Current Oral Health Reports, 2(1), 48-56. doi:10.1007/s40496-014-0044-5 Dréno, B., Dagnelie, M. A., Khammari, A., & Corvec, S. (2020). The skin microbiome: A new actor in inflammatory acne. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 21(Suppl 1), 18-24. doi:10.1007/s40257-020-00531-1 Saraf, V. S., Sheikh, S. A., Ahmad, A., Gillevet, P. M., Bokhari, H., & Javed, S. (2021). Vaginal microbiome: Normalcy vs dysbiosis. Archives of Microbiology, 203(7), 3793-3802. doi:10.1007/s00203-021-02414-3 Saxena, R., Mittal, P., Clavaud, C., Dhakan, D. B., Roy, N., Breton, L., . . . Sharma, V. K. (2021). Longitudinal study of the scalp microbiome suggests coconut oil to enrich healthy scalp commensals. Scientific Reports, 11(1), 7220. doi:10.1038/s41598-021-86454-1 Skowron, K., Bauza-Kaszewska, J., Kraszewska, Z., Wiktorczyk-Kapischke, N., Grudlewska-Buda, K., Kwiecińska-Piróg, J., . . . Gospodarek-Komkowska, E. (2021). Human skin microbiome: Impact of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on skin microbiota. Microorganisms (Basel), 9(3), 543. doi:10.3390/microorganisms9030543 Wang, H., Wang, C., Hsieh, S., Hung, Y., & Chen, H. (2022). Evaluation of a new‐formula shampoo containing 6% glycyrrhetinic acid complex for scalp seborrheic dermatitis: A pilot study. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 21(8), 3423-3430. doi:10.1111/jocd.14623

Discover our team of award-winning scientists dedicated to advancing microbiome research for a healthier world. Explore our expertise now. We are a Team of Award-Winning Scientists Creating a World of Healthier Individuals Our platform is the result of our team’s combined expertise in genetics, epigenetics, and microbiome research. We utilise deep molecular analysis and next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology to understand the impact of product usage on an individual’s microbiome. Through our efforts, we hope to revolutionise the way in which the industry develops and tests its products to deliver optimal results to those utilising them. Our Mission Sequential is the industry leader in clinical human research and testing offering a comprehensive end-to-end platform designed to bring science-backed solutions to the personal care and pharmaceutical industry. Our mission is to understand the impact of the microbiome on the host (humans) and how the host impacts the microbiome in order to characterise human health fully. We offer an extensive platform to conduct research on personal care products through microbiome testing, and biophysical assessments, and offer full recruitment services for studies. We are keen to publish our findings with our partners to increase the literature within this space. At present our database of over 20,000 human microbiome samples is one of the most sophisticated within the industry and is growing rapidly. Innovation Pioneering the forefront of biological science, we consistently introduce groundbreaking advancements to redefine industry standards. Transparency Our commitment to openness ensures a clear understanding of our human microbiome testing processes and analysis. Reliability We guarantee dependable results, fostering trust in the accuracy of our analyses. Our Team at Sequential Oliver Worsley, PhD CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER & CO-FOUNDER Albert Dashi, PhD CHIEF SCIENCE OFFICER & CO-FOUNDER Pétronille Houdart, PharmD SKINCARE DIRECTOR The Commercial Team Derek Butler, PhD MBA COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR Shalindri Jayawardene MSc SCIENCE MARKETING ASSISTANT Carla Brown, PhD, MBA SALES ASSOCIATE Athena Hajaig, BSc MARKETING ASSOCIATE Jaina Bhayani, PhD SALES ASSOCIATE Marya Ahmed, MSc HEAD OF MARKETING The Scientific Team Sibora Peca, MSc CLINICAL OPERATIONS LEAD Omera Bi, PhD, AFHE R&D PROJECT SPECIALIST Grace Robinson, MSc ASSOCIATE SCIENTIST Khanh Lê Đào, BA JUNIOR CLINICAL ASSISTANT Omololu Fagunwa, PhD SENIOR BIOINFORMATICIAN Ami Picari CLINICAL ASSISTANT Sija Sajibu, PhD SENIOR SCIENTIST Please find listed a selection of relevant peer-reviewed publications from our advisors. Wu G, TL Dawson, et al. (2015) Genus-Wide Comparative Genomics of Malassezia Delineates Its Phylogeny, Physiology, and Niche Adaptation on Human Skin. PLOS Genetics 11(11): e1005614. Chng, K., Nagarajan, N., et al. (2016) Whole metagenome profiling reveals skin microbiome-dependent susceptibility to atopic dermatitis flare. Nat Microbiol 1, 16106. Tay, A.S., Nagarajan, N., et al (2018). 1039 Skin microbiome profiles of atopic dermatitis patients segregate into two community composition types that are stable before and after therapy. Journal of Investigative Dermatology. 138. S176. 10.1016/j.jid.2018.03.1051. Ramasamy S., Barnard, E., Dawson, TL, and Huiying Li. (2019). Role of the skin microbiota in acne pathophysiology. British Journal of Dermatology, https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.18230. Dawson, TL. (2019) Malassezia: The Forbidden Kingdom Opens. Cell Host Microbe https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chom.2019.02.010 Tay, A.S., Nagarajan, N., et al (2020). Atopic dermatitis microbiomes stratify into ecologic dermotypes enabling microbial virulence and disease severity. The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology. 10.1016/j.jaci.2020.09.031. Dawson, TL. (2021) Malassezia: A Skin Commensal Yeast Impacting Both Health and Disease. Front. Cell. Infect. Microbiol., doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2021.659219 Bissonnette, Robert & FAAD, & Palijan, Ana & Salem, Youssef & Maari, Catherine & Proulx, Etienne & Edjekouane, Lydia & Joly-Chevrier, Maxine & Devis, Andrew & Dashi, Albert & Worsley, Oliver. (2024). 50694 Gut microbiome differences between patients with moderate to severe Chronic Hand Eczema and healthy subjects. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 91. AB224. 10.1016/j.jaad.2024.07.889. Supported By Scientific Board of Advisors Our advisors are world leaders in the skin microbiome and have extensive experience in bringing forward solutions for skin concerns Prof. Tom Dawson Senior Principal Investigator at Skin Research Institute of Singapore. Over 30 years experience in biotechnology innovations, and expert in the skin and hair microbiome. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Pharmacology at the Univer sity of North Carolina. Dr Kimberly Capone Dr Kimberly Capone is a pioneer and established expert in microbiology and the human microbiome field where she created new business opportunities across multiple brands over 13 years at Johnson & Johnson Consumer, Inc. Areas of concentration included infant and adult skin, vaginal, gut, and oral health. Prof. Phillip Bennett Phillip Bennett is Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Director of the Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology. Professor Bennett has been one of the key pioneers in researching the vaginal microbiome. In particular, to understand and characterise the impact of the vaginal microbiome on preterm labour. Bennett has published over 400 peer-reviewed research articles over his career. Dr Natalya Fox Dr Natalya Fox is a Dermatologist at the NHS - St George's Hospital, London. Previously, Fox did her MBChB at the University of Edinburgh 201 4 and has her Full MRCP UK in Dermatology. Fox is passionate about the skin microbiome and its place in dermatology. Prof. Elena Lurie-Luke A senior R&D, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Executive with extensive technical, strategic business development. Proven leadership experience in both global FMCG and public health sector environments. Prof. Niranjan Nagarajan Associate Director & Senior Group Leader at Genome Institute of Singapore. Expert in computation biology, in particular the study of microbial communities resident on the human skin. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Computer Science at Cornell University. Dr Alexander Lezhava Senior Group Leader & Associate Director at Genome Institute of Singapore. Expert in the commercial development of medical diagnostics and clinical-grade molecular assays. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Microbiology at Hiroshima University. Our Labs Sequential has clinical testing labs in New York City, Cambridge and Singapore. Being close to our customers has allowed us to reduce turnaround time, whilst retaining the intellectual property in-house. Supporting World-Class Clients & Partners

Video on how to take a microbiome sample with Sequential's microbiome testing kit.

Sequential is honoured to be spoken and written about in numerous publications. We are always keen to speak about the great milestones we are hitting with our personal care microbiome testing platform. Sequential in the Press Men’s grooming shifts toward science-driven solutions 24-Feb-2026 Read Now Sequential: Testing shows skin microbiome plays a role in hyperpigmentation 7-Oct-2025 Read Now The bidirectional skin-gut microbiome: a game-changer for cosmetic formulators 29-Jul-2025 Read Now Sequential and AMILI Secure Prestigious $1.8M UK-Singapore Collaborative R&D Project 13-Feb-2025 Read Now Sequential Launches Industry-First Microbiome Target Panels for Skin Conditions 16-Oct-2024 Read Now From the experts: Top 3 trends in skin microbiome research 20-Jun-2024 Read Now Is Home-Based Skin Microbiome Testing Transforming Beauty and Health Care Industry? 7-Dec-2023 Read Now “Hormone-led changes cause differences to the vaginal ecology that can have an effect on women’s health later in life.” CEO of Sequential 13-Sep-2023 Read Now Sequential and Johnson & Johnson enter partnership to develop new genomic-based skin test 16-Mar-2023 Read Now Sequential Announces New Collaboration Agreement to Quantify Skin Health 15-Mar-2023 Read Now ‘Natural evolution’: Gallinée unveils at-home skin microbiome test kits with Sequential Skin 09-Mar-2023 Read Now Here They Are: Congratulations to the Winners of the 2022 C&T Allēs 29-Sep-2022 Read Now Sequential Skin: Why We Invested 11-Apr-2022 Read Now Sequential Skin Debuts Sequential Bio Testing Solution 09-Mar-2022 Read Now Biotech Start-Up Sequential Skin Raises Funds 10-Dec-2021 Read Now Biotech startup Sequential Skin raises €1.4m – ‘We want to accelerate the future of skin health,’ says CEO 11-Oct-2021 Read Now PODCAST – Holistic view on skin: Sequential Skin on why microbiome testing is crucial to personalised beauty 21-Aug-2020 Read Now Beauté personnalisée: Sequential Skin la Beauty Tech made in Singapore 07-Jul-2020 Read Now GWS 2019 DAY 2 Beauty, Science & Technology: Skin in the Game 25-Nov-2019 Read Now Science-led minimalism shapes future sustainable skin care 13-Jan-2026 Read Now Beautiful Bacteria: Are We On The Cusp Of Microbiome Mainstreaming? 28-Sep-2025 Read Now Sequential Skin and AMILI Secure $1.8M UK-Singapore Grant to Advance Gut-Skin Microbiome Science 14-Feb-2025 Read Now 50694 Gut microbiome differences between patients with moderate to severe Chronic Hand Eczema and healthy subjects Sep-2024 Read Now Is Microbiome Certification even Necessary? 29-Jul-2024 Read Now ‘It’s a really delicate system’: Research on vaginal microbiome shows how little we know about femcare 22-Jan-2024 Read Now Gallinée lance le premier test de santé de la peau et du microbiome à réaliser chez soi 10-Oct-2023 Read Now Lysine-dendrimer: a gentle yet effective acne treatment that maintains skin microbiome, says study 18-Aug-2023 Read Now Acne and ageing: J&J exploring skin health markers via Sequential Skin research tie-up 15-Mar-2023 Read Now Sequential Skin x Johnson & Johnson Collab to Quantify Skin Health 14-Mar-2023 Read Now Understand before purchase: Microbiome testing can help consumers find the right products and eliminate waste 30-Jan-2023 Read Now Sequential Wins New Grant To Propel Skin Microbiome Research 30-Jun-2022 Read Now Sequential Skin launches test to assess ingredient effect on microbiome 22-Mar-2022 Read Now Microbiome start-up Sequential Bio debuts first in-vivo testing for personal care industry 04-Mar-2022 Read Now Sequential Skin Raises $1.6M in Oversubscribed Seed Round 12-Oct-2021 Read Now The skin microbiome brainstorm: Tech, claims and trend-driven NPD 16-Sep-2021 Read Now Skin Sensors Enable Personalized Skin Care 20-Aug-2020 Read Now Sequential Skin: beauty tech’s new approach to genetic analysis and microbiome skincare 09-Mar-2020 Read Now How genetic insights can personalise skin microbiome launches 29-Jul-2019 Read Now Deep dive into Radiance Evaluation 9-Oct-2025 Read Now Men’s care shifts toward function-first to address skin needs beyond the basics 16-Sep-2025 Read Now Sequential and AMILI secure $1.8M UK-Singapore R&D project to advance gut-skin microbiome science 13-Feb-2025 Read Now New clinical testing to “investigate microbial roots of various skin conditions” 17-Oct-2024 Read Now Losing its meaning? ‘Microbiome-friendly’ terms at risk of misleading consumers – Sequential CEO 29-Jul-2024 Read Now Navigating the realm of intimate care products 17-Jan-2024 Read Now Avec ce test microbiome maison, 10 secondes m'ont suffit pour découvrir les besoins de ma peau 04-Oct-2023 Read Now Lysine-Dendrimer, a New Non-Aggressive Solution to Rebalance the Microbiota of Acne-Prone Skin 3-Aug-2023 Read Now Sequential Announces New Collaboration Agreement to Measure Skin Health for Leading Developer of Personal Care Products 15-Mar-2023 Read Now Sequential Skin partners with Johnson & Johnson on microbiome tests 10-Mar-2023 Read Now Symbiome Partners with Skin Microbiome Testing experts at Sequential to Revolutionize Beauty Industry 26-Jan-2023 Read Now Sequential Skin Nabs $500K UK Grant to Study Skin Microbiome in Atopic Dermatitis 29-Jun-2022 Read Now Demands rising for clinical data on the skin microbiome: Experts 22-Mar-2022 Read Now ‘Maintaining the microbiome’: Biotech startup Sequential Skin debuts in vivo B2B testing service 03-Mar-2022 Read Now Start-up Sequential Skin bags $1.65m of fresh funding 12-Oct-2021 Read Now Singapore Beauty Startup Sequential Skin Uses Science to Help Identify the Best Skincare For You 07-Jan-2021 Read Now Overlooked opportunities? Skin microbiome may play a more important role in personalisation than DNA 13-Aug-2020 Read Now Sequential tool kit prioritises personalisation 15-Jan-2020 Read Now

Thank you for getting in touch! We will review your query and get back to you within 1-2 business days.

Validate cosmetic products with multi-omics and clinical testing. Generate evidence, understand mechanisms, and support advanced claims. Advanced claims, backed by biology. SKIN | SCALP | INTIMATE | ORAL We help innovative dermocosmetic and personal care brands generate clinical-grade evidence and multi-omics insight, revealing not just efficacy, but true mechanisms of action and competitive positioning. Prove your product’s impact We go beyond validation, into biological understanding Sequential combines clinical testing with multi-omics and molecular analysis to uncover how products interact with human biology. We don’t just tell you if your product works. We show you: What biological systems it impacts (microbiome, barrier, inflammation, pigmentation, aging) How it works at a molecular level How it compares to other products in your category The era of generic claims is ending. “Clinically tested.” “Dermatologist approved.” “Microbiome-friendly.” These claims are everywhere, and increasingly meaningless. Today’s consumers, regulators, and partners expect more than surface-level validation. They want to understand how a product works, not just what it claims to do. For truly innovative brands, this creates a challenge: How do you stand out when weak claims are easy, and real science is hard to communicate? Clinical-grade evidence demonstrating real biological impact. Credible scientific proof Mechanism of action clarity Translate molecular data into a defensible scientific claim and story. Competitive positioning Understand how your product differentiates and competes within its category. Our process is designed to turn data into clear, defensible claims. We work closely with each client to design tailored clinical studies, recruit relevant participants, and collect high-quality samples using non-invasive methods. Through multi-omics analysis and in-house expertise, we generate a comprehensive understanding of product impact, translating complex biological data into scientifically grounded, claim-ready insights that drive confidence and growth. Start your validation study How it works

Find answers to common questions about Sequential's microbiome testing services for personal care products. Learn more about our process, benefits, and certifications. Frequently Asked Questions Our Testing Platform Recruitment Targeted Microbiome Panels Microbiome Claims & Certification Sequencing Technology Our Validated Collection System in vivo Microbiome Testing What is Sequential’s microbiome 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. What are Sequential’s testing capabilities? At Sequential, we have carried out extensive research on the microbiome, having captured over 25,000 microbiome samples. We pride ourselves in being the testing partner you need, with all the expertise and industry knowledge to support you in your success. Whether you have developed a product for skin care, scalp care, intimate care or oral care we have the expertise and capabilities to test it for you. Why is it necessary to test the microbiome? Longitudinal in vivo studies are not just a bonus for cosmetic and personal care brands to have within their repertoire. It is crucial to acknowledge that uncovering the real impact of products within the real context of the human body is the only way to understand how a product is functioning. 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. Can Sequential support formulators, raw ingredient suppliers & brands? Sequential is the industry leader in microbiome testing, claims substantiation and support for brands formulating products for skin, scalp, intimate care and oral care. Recognized as the most significant testing solution in the industry, Sequential offers a full end-to-end platform from study design, recruitment and testing, to analysis, and support on formulation development and certification. Sequential’s testing is exclusively managed in-house and with human clinical subjects, in vivo. As an ally in research and development to top global brands and household names, Sequential supports its journey to delivering consumer-driven products backed in science. Is all of Sequential’s analysis carried out in-house or is it dispersed to a third party? All of our analysis is carried out in-house by our expert bioinformaticians allowing for a faster turn-around time on your study and exclusive access to our team of scientists and formulation experts.