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Unlock the Secrets of Acne with Sequential's Cutting-Edge Microbiome Testing
Why Microbiome Testing for Acne?
Acne affects nearly 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24, with millions worldwide continuing to struggle with breakouts into adulthood (American Academy of Dermatology). While many individuals turn to over-the-counter products in hopes of finding relief, the reality is that many of these formulations can exacerbate the problem.
Without proper testing, products may contain ingredients that disrupt the delicate balance of the skin, leading to irritation, clogged pores, and even more severe acne. Acne isn’t just skin-deep — it’s driven by a delicate balance of microorganisms on the skin. As skincare companies race to meet demand, a lack of microbiome-focused testing means many products fail to address the root microbial causes of acne.
Sequential is leading the way in microbiome testing for the industry. With a specialized focus on skin conditions, we have developed an innovative solution tailored to help you understand the root causes of acne at the microbial level. Our proprietary sequencing panel is designed specifically to offer in-depth analysis of acne-associated microbiota, giving you the tools to transform skincare solutions.
Customized Analysis
Tailored insights specific to acne-prone skin, allowing your R&D team to develop more personalized and effective products.
Actionable Data
Leverage detailed reports to guide formulation decisions and validate product efficacy with precision.
Product Innovation
New acne treatments or enhancing existing lines, our data helps you create targeted solutions with proven results.
Precision Sequencing
Target specific microbial communities associated with acne development and severity.
Smart Probes™
Our dedicated team of scientists has developed a groundbreaking method for evaluating microbes through our Smart Probes™, a proprietary panel featuring 23 key microbes specifically identified as having the greatest impact on skin health. To further explore the intricate connection between acne and the skin microbiome, we employ qPCR technology. This cutting-edge technique allows us to precisely measure microbial populations on the skin, providing a clearer understanding of how imbalances in the microbiome can contribute to acne breakouts.
By carefully analyzing how skincare products interact with both beneficial and acne-causing microbes, companies can create solutions that not only target acne symptoms but also support a healthier, balanced skin microbiome, promoting clearer and more resilient skin.
Acne Panel Targets
Cutibacterium acnes acnes (Subtype I)
Cutibacterium acnes subtype I is a specific strain of the C. acnes bacterium commonly found within sebaceous (oil) glands. This bacterium plays a key role in maintaining skin health by breaking down sebum, and producing fatty acids that prevent harmful pathogens from colonizing. However, certain strains of subtype I are associated with inflammatory conditions like acne vulgaris. While typically harmless, its overgrowth or imbalance in the skin microbiome can trigger immune responses that lead to acne and other skin issues.
Spittaels KJ, Ongena R, Zouboulis CC, Crabbé A, Coenye T. Cutibacterium acnes Phylotype I and II Strains Interact Differently With Human Skin Cells. Front Cell Infect Microbiol. 2020 Nov 16;10:575164. doi: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.575164. PMID: 33330124; PMCID: PMC7717938.
Cutibacterium acnes defendens (Subtype II)
Cutibacterium acnes subtype II is a strain of the C. acnes bacterium, distinct from subtype I, and is found on human skin, primarily in sebaceous areas. While it shares similarities with other subtypes in maintaining skin health by metabolizing sebum, subtype II is less commonly associated with acne development. It has been linked more to opportunistic infections and medical device-related infections rather than inflammatory acne. Subtype II is typically less inflammatory than subtype I and plays a different role in the skin's microbial balance.
Cobian N, Garlet A, Hidalgo-Cantabrana C, Barrangou R. Comparative Genomic Analyses and CRISPR-Cas Characterization of Cutibacterium acnes Provide Insights Into Genetic Diversity and Typing Applications. Front Microbiol. 2021 Nov 3;12:758749. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.758749. PMID: 34803983; PMCID: PMC8595920.
Cutibacterium acnes elongatum (Subtype III)
Cutibacterium acnes subtype III is a less common strain of the C. acnes bacterium, primarily found in deeper skin layers and associated more with opportunistic infections rather than acne. Unlike subtypes I and II, which are typically found on the skin's surface and sebaceous areas, subtype III is linked to post-surgical infections, particularly around medical implants, and is less involved in acne formation. It tends to have lower inflammatory potential, distinguishing it from other C. acnes subtypes in terms of both location and clinical relevance.
Dagnelie MA, Khammari A, Dréno B, Corvec S. Cutibacterium acnes molecular typing: time to standardize the method. Clin Microbiol Infect. 2018 Nov;24(11):1149-1155. doi: 10.1016/j.cmi.2018.03.010. Epub 2018 Mar 12. PMID: 29544912.
Industry Leader in Absolute Quantification
Sequential’s Smart Probe™ qPCR approach to microbiome analysis can resolve species and subspecies, giving statistically significant findings between skin conditions on in vivo human samples, compared to conventional sequencing approaches.
