MyMicrobiome Derm Standard 26.10 – Acne

This test guarantees the microbiological purity in the product. It assesses the personal care product for contamination by mesophilic and aerobic microorganisms, including bacteria, yeasts, and molds (TAMC and TYMC). The allowable limit is ≤ 1 x 10³ CFU per gram or milliliter.

A specific balance test with a pathogenic C. acnes strain type IA1 and a counteracting commensal strain S. hominis. The product must shift the balance in favour of S. hominis while reducing the C. acnes strain by 70% or more.

Microorganisms commonly found in sebaceous skin areas prone to acne are cultured. A co-culture of these microbes is then combined with the test product in the presence of excess sebum. Changes in microbial diversity are assessed by comparing the treated samples to two control groups—one with sebum and one without. To meet the standard, the skin microbiome's key microbes must be preserved, ideally maintaining or shifting the balance of tested strains toward the state observed with normal sebum levels.

A microbiome-friendly product should not only maintain microbial diversity but also support the natural growth of beneficial microbes. To assess this, a test model simulates skin contact. In one method, key bacterial strains are directly exposed to the product. In another, bacteria are covered with an agar layer, and the product is applied on top, mimicking its potential penetration into deeper skin layers. The microbial growth in both test conditions is then compared to an untreated control group. To meet the standard, the product must not significantly inhibit bacterial growth.

The MyMicrobiome 26.10-Derm-Acne Standard requires targeted growth inhibition of pathogenic C. acnes strains. To assess this, two well-characterized pathogenic C. acnes strains are exposed to the product on agar plates. For certification, the product must demonstrate at least a 70% reduction in the growth of both strains.