thesis skin care reviews

Thesis Beauty Organic Skin Care Serums Review + Giveaway–Ends June 7, 2018

With so many skin care products on the market, making the right choice can be hit or miss. However, Thesis Beauty takes a healthier approach with their line of certified organic skin care judging from two products that I got to try for this review and giveaway with their Face and Eye Serums.

Thesis Beauty Takes Organic Skin Care Seriously

Though Thesis Beauty has been around since 2009, this was the first time that I tried their organic skin care. All their formulas are handcrafted and use 99% pure certified organic ingredients without any synthetics or fillers that may compromise their high standards to preserve the power of nature.

An important thing to note is many of those oils are raw, cold-pressed ones.  This means they are more potent and aromatic to maximum their effectiveness for skin care.

To further protect the stability of their products, Thesis Beauty uses dark amber glass bottles for their serums to protect against light from causing deterioration.

The Face Serum that I sampled is an intense concentration of 10 oils such as rosehip, jojoba oil, sunflower, argan nut oil, grapeseed oil, macadamia, and six essential oils such as sweet orange and geranium oils to hydrate and revive dry, mature and dehydrated skin. This particular serum has a pleasant hint of orange fragrance once you pump this yellow, mildly scented serum out.

**Disclaimer: This post has been compensated through a free product (s) and/or monetary payment. Opinions are solely mine.**

One pump is enough of this rich serum to treat your whole face. This product is fast absorbing once gently patted into your skin. Though I haven’t been using this serum for all that long, I found it lightweight and gave my complexion a brighter glow and softness. Only time will tell what else this face serum will do for anti-aging.

I also got to try Thesis Beauty’s Eye Serum . This nourishing formula is full of antioxidants to help with anti-aging, dryness and relieve puffiness. With oils like jojoba, grapeseed oil, argan nut oil, rosehip oil and other essential oils such as lavender and camomile just to name a few, this is a hardworking, organic eye serum that does wonders for the eye area.

Anyone with spring allergies might have more eye puffiness than usual. When I tried this eye serum, I found it smoothed the under eye area nicely and also helped counteract some puffiness to my amazement. Being a serum also made it disappear into the skin faster than some eye creams while leaving a moisturized base for my concealer.

I don’t know how you feel about this, but I prefer keeping my skin care simple with pure ingredients instead of flooding it with countless chemicals. If you feel the same way and want organic skin care that you can trust, I recommend visiting Thesis Beauty and try their products. You just might be surprised at the difference of what healthy skin really looks like.

Thanks to Thesis Beauty , one lucky Beauty Cooks Kisses reader in the United States wins both the  Dry Skin Face Serum ($24.95) and the Eye Serum ($24.95) for a ($49.90 total value)!

Giveaway details and How to Enter–

Prize: One (1) winner from the USA will win full-size bottles of Thesis Beauty’s  Dry Skin Face Serum and Eye Serum ($49.90 total value)!

Dates of entry: 05/21/2018–06/07/2018 at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time

Eligibility: Open to the USA. The winner will need to respond to my email with name and shipping address within 48-hours or another winner will be picked.

How to Enter: Please use the Rafflecopter widget if it works. You can also enter by clicking this link or try to enter using another browser. You can return daily and log in again with your email to tweet.

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Hiii I love that they are cruelty free and vegan. Turns out I was following them on Instagram. Thanks!

I learned that they do not use any synthetic or disruptive chemical.s

It’s made in the USA. Love that!

vegan and cruelty free

I learned several things about the Thesis Beauty. First of all that all products are produced in small batches and by hand, for freshness and potency. I also learned that many of the products are made with food grade ingredients.

Love how they are pure Ingredients organic, mostly raw and food-grade. Made in the USA

It’s wonderful that their products are pure and vegan…

I learned that they make products for dry skin.

I learned the products are made from Premium certified organic ingredients.

I learned that they are vegan and cruelty-free.

They are vegan and cruelty free

The products are made in the USA.

I love that their products are safe for use on babies! That’s gentle!

I learned that this company does not use synthetics or fillers.

Good to know that they’re vegan!

I learned their products have no synthetics and no fillers.

Everything in the products is pure and organic. No artificial anything.

that they are chemical free

I learned that the products are vegan, cruelty free, and there are no chemicals.

I learned that they are vegan and cruelty free love it.

I learned that it is raw focused and chemical free. Exactly the kind you want!

I learned that these products are all natural and chemical free – exactly what I have been looking for!

I learned that it is organic and vegan.

Free samples with every order! I love that!

I learned they are cruelty free

I am excited to try these products because I have dry skin, especially my under eyes, and these products are geared towards that. I’m especially excited to try the eye serum because I struggle especially with dry under eyes.

They use pure ingredients,they do not use Synthetic and Disruptive chemicals.

They use pure ingredients and they do not use Synthetic and Disruptive chemicals.

I learned that it is a family owned business that started i 2009.

I learned that they use the most potent certified organic botanicals. Thanks for the giveaway!

Learned that it is made here is the US thats great!

I learned since 2009, Thesis has been run by a family of happy vegetarians dedicated to the development of truly organic and natural skin care products at accessible price points.

I love quality skincare products and these sound nice.

I would like to try these because they are all natural and vegan. I could really use the eye serum.

i learned that your products are Vegan and cruelty-free

i am most excited to try the eye serum

I learned that your products are all Pure Ingredients organic, mostly raw and food-grade

I learned that they are a family run business and take purity in products seriously.

I like that the ingredients are pure.

I like that the ingredients are mostly raw and food grade and that they give free samples with their orders.

No synthetics. No fillers. No gimmicks.

I learned their products are cruelty free!

I learned All items are produced in small batches and by hand to keep things fresh and most potent.

Pure Ingredients organic, mostly raw and food-grade. That’s it!

You get free samples with every order, and right now there is a promotion to get a free travel bag with any 2 Face Care products.

I love the purity and the fact that they use dark glass bottles to protect the quality of the product!

That it’s as pure enough to use on a baby.

I learned that they are eco-friendly packaging with their products.

Love that the products are vegan and cruelty free

I learned their products are Vegan and Cruelty Free.

I learned they are chemical-free, that is important to me.

I learned they have an offer for a free travel bag with any 2 face products

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Sheridan Grant

Content Specialist

Sheridan is a writer from Hamilton, Ontario. She has a passion for writing about what she loves and learning new things along the way. Her topics of expertise include skincare and beauty, home decor, and DIYing.

Table of Contents

About Thesis Nootropics

Hands up if you guzzle five coffees a day to stay awake, have tried all the supplements in the book desperate to improve your headspace, and aren’t interested in prescribed medications. Designed to increase focus , Thesis nootropics might be for you. 

Thesis offers a customized blend of ingredients designed to optimize your cognitive function , with personalized details that tackle your specific needs. Nootropics boost brain performance in the same way a stimulant would, without the common negative effects. 

A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that nootropics may help improve cognitive function in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Interested in finding out more about the brand and how it works? Leaf through our Thesis Nootropics review. We’ll be your guide through the company and the process, as well as details on the treatments, highlights from customer reviews, answers to important FAQs, and more, to help you decide if it’s worth the try.

Pros and Cons

• Multiple cognitive benefits: Thesis Nootropics offers a variety of blends that cater to multiple aspects of cognitive function.
• Long-term effects: On top of short term benefits for daily life, Thesis nootropics ingredients are designed to impact the brain in the long-term.
• Personalized recommendations: Thesis Nootropics makes personalized recommendations based on your goals and unique brain chemistry.
• Potential side effects: The most common side effects to watch out for when you start taking Thesis Nootropics include heartburn, headaches, confusion, dizziness, loss of appetite, and digestive issues.
• Need to stop taking if issues arise: If you experience a headache or an upset stomach that won’t go away while taking their nootropics, Thesis recommends that you stop taking them.

What is Thesis Nootropics?

Nootropics are nutrient compounds and substances that are known to improve brain performance , such as caffeine and creatine. They help with issues that affect motivation, creativity, mood, memory, focus, and cognitive processing.

Nootropics are the ideal addition to an already healthy lifestyle that consists of exercise, proper nutrition, and enjoyable activities.  Thesis nootropics are carefully formulated to target specific needs, ranging from energy to creativity. The brand focuses on safety, ensuring that all supplements adhere to FDA guidelines and go through multiple clinical trials. 

How Thesis Nootropics Works

With all that being said, you may be wondering how Thesis provides users with an option that is specific to their needs. Fortunately, the process is simple and hassle free. Here’s how it works:

• Take the Thesis nootropics quiz
• Answer questions about your basic information
• Receive personalized recommendations 
• Get your starter kit for $120 , or $79 monthly when you subscribe 

After that, you’ll select one formula to take each week, taking one day off in between each different option. You’ll also track your results in the daily journal over the month to see how they affect your daily life. 

From there, it operates as a subscription service. Users will be able to optimize their next shipment by telling the brand which formulas worked best.

If you don’t like any of the blends in your box, let the company know and they’ll switch it for something that’s a better fit for your lifestyle, genetics, and goals.

Thesis Nootropics Ingredients

Thesis Nootropics is a brand that offers personalized nootropics designed to enhance cognitive function and overall brain health. Their blends contain a variety of ingredients that are carefully chosen for their cognitive-boosting properties. Here are some of the key ingredients in Thesis Nootropics:

• Cognizin (Citicoline) : Cognizin is a type of choline that is known for its ability to enhance cognitive function, including memory and focus.
• L-Theanine : L-Theanine is an amino acid that is found in green tea, and is known for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety.
• Lion’s Mane Mushroom : Lion’s Mane Mushroom is a type of medicinal mushroom that is believed to have cognitive-boosting properties, including improved memory and focus.
• Rhodiola Rosea : Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb that is known for its ability to reduce stress and fatigue, and improve mental clarity and cognitive function.
• Ashwagandha : Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that is known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, and improve memory and cognitive function.
• Phosphatidylserine : Phosphatidylserine is a type of phospholipid that is found in high concentrations in the brain, and is believed to support cognitive function, including memory and focus³
• Alpha-GPC : Alpha-GPC is a type of choline that is known for its ability to enhance cognitive function, including memory and focus.
• TAU (uridine): TAU is a blend of uridine, choline, and DHA, which is believed to support brain health and cognitive function.
• Artichoke extract : Artichoke extract is believed to enhance cognitive function by increasing levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is important for memory and learning.
• Dynamine : Dynamine is a type of alkaloid that is believed to enhance cognitive function by increasing levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is important for mood and motivation.

Overall, the ingredients in Thesis Nootropics are carefully chosen for their cognitive-boosting properties, and are designed to work together to enhance overall brain health and cognitive function.

Thesis Nootropics Health Benefits

Thesis Nootropics is a brand that offers personalized nootropics designed to enhance cognitive function and overall brain health. Their blends contain a variety of ingredients that are carefully chosen for their cognitive-boosting properties, and offer numerous health benefits. Here are some of the health benefits of Thesis Nootropics:

• Increased cognitive energy : One of the key benefits of Thesis Nootropics is increased cognitive energy, which can help improve productivity, mental alertness, and motivation, as it contains cognizin .
• Enhanced mental clarity : Another benefit of Thesis Nootropics is enhanced mental clarity,given from Lion’s Mane Mushroom which can help reduce brain fog and improve focus.
• Improved memory and learning abilities : Thesis Nootropics contains ingredients that are believed to improve memory and learning abilities, like Phosphatidylserine , which can help users retain information more effectively.
• Elevated mood : Thesis Nootropics may help elevate mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, thanks to ingredients like L-Theanine and Ashwagandha .
• Lowered stress levels : The adaptogenic herbs in Thesis Nootropics, such as Rhodiola Rosea and Ashwagandha , are known for their ability to lower stress levels and promote relaxation.
• Boosted focus : Thesis Nootropics contains ingredients like Alpha-GPC and Artichoke extract , which are believed to boost focus and concentration.

While Thesis Nootropics offers numerous health benefits, it’s important to note that the long-term effects of nootropics are not yet fully understood and more research is needed.

3 Thesis Nootropics Bestsellers

Thesis energy review.

If you’re constantly struggling to keep up with the demands of your busy life, it might be time to try a natural energy booster like Thesis Energy. This powerful nootropic blend is specifically designed to increase energy, overcome fatigue, and build mental stamina.

Thesis Energy is caffeine-free, making it a great option for those who are sensitive to caffeine or looking for a natural alternative to traditional energy drinks. The Energy formulation is designed to help improve focus and mental clarity, increase cognitive energy, and reduce fatigue. Whether you’re facing a busy day at work, recovering after a night of poor sleep, or gearing up for an intense workout, Thesis Energy can help you power through.

Each ingredient in Thesis Energy is carefully chosen for its energy-boosting properties. The specific ingredients can vary depending on your needs, but they work together to help increase energy, improve mental clarity, and reduce fatigue.

To get the most out of Thesis Energy, take it every morning on an empty stomach. You can also take it again after lunch if you need an extra boost. It’s designed to help you tackle busy, hectic days, recover from poor sleep, and power through intense workouts.

If you’re tired of relying on coffee and energy drinks to get through the day, it might be time to give Thesis Energy a try. Check availability and start boosting your energy naturally today!

Thesis Creativity

If you’re someone who struggles with creativity or finds yourself feeling stuck in your creative endeavors, Thesis Creativity may be worth considering. This nootropic supplement is designed to help spark inspiration, enhance verbal fluency, and boost confidence in your own great ideas.

So what’s in Thesis Creativity? The ingredients may vary depending on your specific needs, but these ingredients work together to support stress management, memory function, mood regulation, and energy production.

By supporting stress management, memory function, and mood regulation, Thesis Creativity can help free up mental space for more creative thinking. Additionally, the caffeine and L-theanine combo can provide a boost of energy and focus without the jitters and crash that can come with caffeine alone.

To get the most out of Thesis Creativity, it is recommended to take it every morning on an empty stomach and again after lunch if you need an extra boost. This nootropic blend is particularly helpful for brainstorming and creative thinking, writing and creative projects, and public speaking and social situations.

As with any nootropic supplement, it’s important to note that the long-term effects of Thesis Creativity are not yet fully understood and more research is needed. It’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your routine.

In summary, if you’re looking for a little extra help in the creativity department, Thesis Creativity may be a valuable addition to your nootropic lineup. Its unique blend of ingredients can help support mental clarity, mood regulation, and energy production, making it a valuable tool for any creative individual.

Thesis Logic

If you’ve been having trouble with your memory lately, such as forgetting what you had for lunch yesterday or struggling to recall common words, then Thesis Logic may be just what you need. This formula is designed to help enhance your processing speed, boost your memory, and deepen your thinking.

Thesis Logic is caffeine-free, making it a great option for those who are sensitive to caffeine. The formula is ideal for use during deep, focused work, complex problem-solving, research projects, and completing tedious tasks.

Taking Thesis Logic is easy – simply take it every morning on an empty stomach, and take it again after lunch if you need an extra boost. By incorporating Thesis Logic into your daily routine, you may notice improvements in your cognitive function and overall mental performance.

Who Is Thesis Nootropics For? 

Thesis nootropics are designed for a number of different specific needs, including anyone who wants to focus better, have more energy, and maintain mental clarity. All in all, the products are specifically formulated to improve day to day life and target your specific needs .

Thesis Nootropics Side Effects

While Thesis nootropics are designed to enhance cognitive performance and provide a range of benefits, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects that can occur. As with any supplement, individual reactions can vary, and some people may experience side effects while others may not.

Some of the potential side effects of Thesis nootropics include:

• Insomnia : Some nootropics contain caffeine or other stimulants that can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Blurry vision : Certain nootropics, such as those containing alpha GPC, have been linked to temporary blurry vision.
• High blood pressure : Stimulant-based nootropics can increase blood pressure, which can be dangerous for people with hypertension or other heart conditions.
• Fast heart rate : Similarly, stimulants can also increase heart rate, leading to palpitations or a rapid pulse.
• Circulation problem s: Certain nootropics, such as vinpocetine, can affect blood flow and circulation, leading to issues like dizziness, nausea, or headaches.
• Addiction : Some nootropics, such as those containing racetams, have been associated with the potential for addiction or dependence if used long-term.

It’s important to remember that not all nootropics will produce these side effects, and the severity of any reactions will depend on individual factors such as dosage, duration of use, and underlying health conditions. However, it’s always wise to discuss any potential risks with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Additionally, it’s important to follow dosage instructions carefully and not to exceed recommended amounts, as this can increase the risk of side effects. By being mindful of potential risks and using nootropics responsibly, users can reap the benefits of these supplements without experiencing adverse effects.

Thesis Nootropics Reviews: What Do Customers Think?

At this point in our Thesis nootropics review, it’s time to turn to what customers are saying. So, we sourced testimonials from the brand’s website, Reddit, and ZenMasterWellness. And spoiler alert, the Thesis nootropics reviews we came across have nothing but good things to say.

On takethesis.com , the brand earns 4.4/5 stars out of 7,956 reviews. One patron describes their particular blend as the perfect alternative to prescription meds :

“ I have been off stimulants for months now and these formulas are far superior. My husband and daughter both noticed the change and said I have been more productive, focused, less anxious, and more “thinking outside the box”. I have tried for years to get off stims and nothing would work .”

On Reddit, many reviewers share similar sentiments about how effective the products are. One buyer shares that they tried tons of different nootropics on the market, and Thesis stands out amongst the crowd . 

On ZenMasterWellness, one reviewer states that their blend provided the exact results they were looking for :

“ They offer notable improvements to how well I’m able to focus, stay on task, and grind when it’s time to grind. In practice, this usually looks like a clearer mind and an improved ability to just… chill. With the Clarity and Creativity blends, in particular, I just feel leveled out .”

Backed by clinical trials and real customer experiences, Thesis stands out in the world of nootropics and supplements. The personalized selections prove effective, while the quality ingredients live up to expectations. 

Is Thesis Nootropics Legit?

If you’re wondering if this brand offers products that are too good to be true, this Thesis nootropics review is here to say that it is the real deal .

The brand is backed by numerous clinical trials, which highlight how 86% of customers reported improvements in a wide range of cognitive challenges, while 89% noticed an improvement in their ability to reduce stress and maintain energy.

Is Thesis Nootropics Worth It?

Thesis is an appealing choice in the world of nootropics because it provides a completely customized selection based on your needs and goals. Plus, the ingredients are potent and ensure the best effects—and you only end up paying for the benefits you actually need.

With that in mind, this Thesis nootropics review deems the brand worth the try.

Alternatives

Here are some alternatives to Thesis Nootropics that you might find interesting:

• Mind Lab Pro – This nootropic supplement is designed to improve cognitive function and mental performance. It contains 11 ingredients that work together to enhance memory, focus, and overall brain health.
• Thorne Supplements : If you’re looking for high-quality, science-based supplements, Thorne is a great choice. Their products are designed with the latest research in mind and are rigorously tested for quality and purity. Some of their popular offerings include multivitamins, protein powders, and omega-3 supplements.
• WeAreFeel Supplements : WeAreFeel is a supplement brand that offers a variety of products designed to support different aspects of your health. Their supplements are vegan-friendly and free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Some of their popular offerings include multivitamins, probiotics, and omega-3 supplements.
• Neuro Gum : If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to boost your focus and energy levels, Neuro Gum is a great option. This gum is infused with caffeine and other natural ingredients that can help improve mental clarity and alertness. Plus, it’s sugar-free and comes in a variety of delicious flavors.
• Neuriva Plus : Neuriva Plus is a brain supplement that’s designed to improve memory, focus, and cognitive performance. It contains a blend of natural ingredients, including coffee fruit extract and phosphatidylserine, that have been shown to support brain health. If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your cognitive function, Neuriva Plus is worth considering.

Thesis Nootropics Promotions & Discounts 

There aren’t currently any Thesis promos or discounts available. That being said, if you subscribe for recurring shipments of your recommended products, you’ll save $40 monthly .

Where to Buy Thesis Nootropics

At the time of this Thesis nootropics review, the products are exclusively available on the brand’s website, takethesis.com .

Is Thesis Nootropics vegan?  

Thesis nootropics are made with only vegan ingredients . That being said, while the brand has taken precautions to protect against cross contamination, the products are not certified vegan.

Is Thesis Nootropics gluten-free? 

On top of being vegan, Thesis products are made without gluten, eggs, or nuts . Again, while the brand strives to protect users against cross contamination, the products are not certified gluten free. 

What is Thesis Nootropics’ Shipping Policy?

If you’re anxiously awaiting your order from this Thesis nootropics review, you’ll be happy to hear that the company offers speedy shipping, sending orders out within 1 business day. After that, packages should arrive within only 1-3 business days . Costs are calculated at checkout.

At this time, Thesis is not able to offer international shipping. This Thesis nootropics review recommends following the brand on social media and signing up for the newsletter to stay up to date with shipping policies. 

What is Thesis Nootropics’ Return Policy?

If you find that your Thesis formula isn’t working out, the company requests that you contact them to make changes and adjustments to ensure you are able to receive the proper help.

If you would still like to make a return, follow these simple steps for a refund:

• Submit your refund request
• Ship the items back within 30 days of the original delivery
• Send an email with your tracking number to the brand
• Return any remaining product in their original packaging to: 

Thesis Returns 902 Broadway

6th Floor New York, NY 

Once your return has been received, a refund will be processed and email confirmation will be sent. It’s also important to note that the brand can only refund one month’s supply per customer and return shipping is the customer’s responsibility. 

How to Contact Thesis Nootropics

We hope you enjoyed this Thesis nootropics review! If you have any further questions about the brand or its products, you can contact them using the following methods:

• Call 1 (646) 647-3599
• Email [email protected]

902 Broadway Floor 6 New York, NY 10010

If you’re looking for other ways to boost your productivity via supplements, check out these other brands we’ve reviewed:

Thorne Supplements Review

WeAreFeel Supplements Review

Neuro Gum Review

Neuriva Plus Review

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Thesis Beauty Products

Have you been searching for beauty products that are vegan and cruelty free, natural and organic, and eco-friendly? Look no further! I personally use Thesis Beauty products and absolutely love them! Plus, Thesis has provided an exclusive discount just for you. 💚

I have also provided all of the links for you to purchase these products. While I am a Thesis Beauty affiliate, I fully stand by all products I endorse. I only promote products that I myself personally use on a regular basis– and love. By clicking on affiliate links, I may earn a small commission, at no additional cost to you. You can read more about affiliate links here .

About Thesis Beauty

Established in 2009, Thesis is a smaller, family-run company. Their mission: “to make a difference in the health of our customers and our environment through utmost purity, efficacy and accessibility of our products.”

Thesis uses premium certified organic and raw ingredients and no synthetics or fillers and needless chemical processes. Additionally, all products are certified vegan and cruelty free. 

Not only do they pride themselves on natural, high quality skin care, the company also focuses on lessening its environmental impact. This includes not utilizing plastic whenever possible, sourcing only high quality, organic ingredients, and when available, using ingredients that are certified fair trade. 

Thesis Beauty products are manufactured in the United States. And, they are produced in small batches by hand.

Thesis Beauty skincare includes face cleansers and moisturizers, shower gels and body creams, and deodorant.

Additionally, you can find products by skin type: oily, dry, combination, and sensitive skin. 

Thesis also offers amazing gift sets . And no shame in buying these as a gift to yourself. 😉 

In addition, several items are available in sample sizes . I love being able to try certain things first to make sure you really like them before purchasing larger sizes. That’s actually how I started my Thesis Beauty collection!

✅ At checkout, use code: PLANTBASED for your exclusive 15% discount! ✅

Thesis Beauty products I love and recommend

Face cleanser

Tender as Petals

Before trying Thesis, I only ever used liquid products on my face. It took a little getting used to in the beginning, but now I enjoy the process. Mix about 1 teaspoon of cleanser with water to make a paste in the palm of your hand. Then, wash as you normally would with cleanser. Additionally, it can also be left on the skin for 15-20 minutes as a mask.

Facial gel wash

Daily Harmony

This face wash is so refreshing and leaves the skin feeling amazing! With natural ingredients like tea tree, peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus, you can’t go wrong!

West Indies

Exfoliates the skin nicely, without feeling like your face is going to burn off (you know what I’m talking about!) Plus, no plastic beads that are harmful to the environment .

Chocolate Heaven

This product is aptly named, because it truly does smell heavenly! Made from raw, unprocessed cacao, it soothes and nourishes the skin. Mix with water to make a paste and apply to the skin. Or, get creative and mix with oat milk, green tea, or citrus juice for an extra relaxing facial. Fair warning though: it will have you craving chocolate cake as you’re using it. 🤪

Facial moisturizer

Unscented serum .

I personally love some of the sensitive skin products for my face. They are unscented and not harsh on your skin. I wasn’t sure how I felt about oil as a moisturizer, but now I’m sold on it and truly love it! My skin feels amazing after cleansing and moisturizing with these products.

Patchouli  

My favorite scented shower gel ever! Made with aloe vera and organic hemp oil, this shower gel leaves your skin feeling refreshed and hydrated.

Patchouli Decadence Antioxidant Cream  

This body cream is probably my favorite product from Thesis. It is the most beautiful scent and hydrates the skin incredibly well. Plus, a little goes a long way, so this is worth the splurge!

For even more vegan beauty products, be sure to check out last year’s Black Friday article.

Do you use any Thesis Beauty products? Which ones are you excited to try? Let me know in the comments below!

👉 And remember to use our code at checkout to receive 15% off your purchase. Code: PLANTBASED

Happy shopping! 🛍

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2 thoughts on “thesis beauty products”.

I wish I would have used non-chemical skincare products when I was much younger. Apparently I’m the the “mature” skin group! And at an era that sun-abused my skin! UGH!!!! I’m going to try the deodorant. I have tried many different brands and mostly don’t work. But it’s better than using the chemical-aluminum-based brands. And trying the facial recovery serum. One thing I don’t like is oily skin after I’ve applied moisturizer. Especially at bedtime when I feel like I’m sticking to the pillow! Can’t wait to see how I like them. Thank you!!

How wonderful we now use words like “mature” to describe certain age groups! 😂 Finding a natural deodorant that actually works is really difficult. I think sometimes too our bodies have been so conditioned to certain chemicals and ingredients for so long that it takes a long time for anything natural to take effect. I hope this deodorant works for you! I personally love their skincare products, so I hope you do too! And with Thesis products, a little goes a long way, so you definitely feel like you get your moneys worth. Thanks for trying! Hope you enjoy! 💚

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• Beauty & Personal Care
• Treatments & Masks

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Organic Facial Serum - Unscented - Soothing Antioxidant Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin with Sea Buckthorn

About this item.

• 99% organic ingredients - extra high organic content plus natural vitamin E
• Luxurious organic oils fight free radicals and soothe your skin - Aloe, Sea Buckthorn, Grapeseed
• No synthetic chemicals, preservatives, fragrance, water & fillers - only potent cold-pressed, unrefined oils
• Ideal for sensitive, reactive, irritated skin (also great for all skin types, except acneic skin)
• 1 fl.oz / 30 ml dark amber apothecary bottle with pump

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Product Description

Unscented Serum will rescue irritated, sensitive skin and bring soothing comfort in an instant. Does not contain any added scents for extra comfort.

Sensitive skin is very fragile and reactive to harsh chemicals and scents.This super-gentle Unscented serum is designed to rescue irritated, sensitive skin by bringing soothing comfort in an instant. It contains organic oils and does not use any added scents - for extra comfort. This moisturizing facial serum employs truly luxurious organic oils such as cold-pressed organic Grapeseed oil, cold-pressed organic Jojoba oil, cold-pressed organic Apricot oil and organic Sea Buckthorn extract - all loaded with powerful antioxidants and natural essential vitamins for the lasting comfort and glowing appearance. Cold-pressed organic Grapeseed oil, being a great moisturizer abundant in microelements, antioxidants and vitamins, such as vitamin A, B, E, promotes skin radiance and helps fight the aging effects of the elements. Due to grapeseed oil’s high linoleic acid value (greater than most other carrier oils), this oil is highly moisturizing, absorbs very quickly without clogging pores and without leaving greasy feeling. Organic Sea Buckthorn is an incredible source of carotenoids and essential vitamins and nutrients that fight free radicals.

Product details

• Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
• Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.7 x 3 x 2.3 inches; 0.96 ounces
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ fc-ser-unsc-1floz
• UPC ‏ : ‎ 856367002702
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Thesis Beauty
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B007RS3W3U
• #11,953 in Facial Serums

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Ingredients.

Organic Apricot Oil; Organic Sunflower Oil; Organic Jojoba Oil; Organic Grapeseed Oil; Organic Sea Buckthorn Extract; Natural Vitamin E Complex, Soy-free D-alpha, beta, gamma, delta Tocopherols and Tocotrienols); Organic Rosemary Extract

Morning and evening, apply a very small amount (usually about 1 pump) - when your skin is still damp after cleansing. Gently tap the serum into your skin, spreading a thin layer with rolling upward motion all over your face, neck and décolleté. Avoid stretching your skin as this may lead to fine line formation. Leave for a few minutes to let sink in. Excellent under makeup.

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Customers say

Customers like the hydration, feel and quality of the skin serum. They mention that it's excellently moisturizing, good for dry skin and that it adds a lot of moisture to their skin. They also say that it makes their skin feel dewy soft, healthy and smooth. Customers appreciate the quality and consistency of the product. They say that the oil is luxurious and that one drop or perhaps two is sufficient enough.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the hydration of the skin serum excellent, good for dry skin, and adds a lot of moisture. They also say it's calming, soothing, and the perfect night time moisturizer. Customers also mention that the oil makes their skin supple, soft, and helps remove redness.

"...This facial serum with Sea buckthorn hydrates so wonderfully making my skin feel healthy and smooth...." Read more

"...and other unnecessary ingredients, this oil will make your skin supple and glowing . It is almost like a vitamin for your skin...." Read more

"...It is all natural and made with high quality oils. Leaves your skin soft and has definitely helped remove redness from my skin." Read more

"...This serum is great for adding extra moisture and giving my skin a nice glow...." Read more

Customers like the feel of the skin serum. They say it makes their skin feel dewy soft, healthy, and smooth. Some customers also mention that it didn't irritate their skin, but it did make them congested. Overall, customers are satisfied with the results.

"...serum with Sea buckthorn hydrates so wonderfully making my skin feel healthy and smooth ...." Read more

"I purchased this for my dry, sensitive skin. It did not irritate my skin , but it did make me congested...." Read more

"...Nope. Not puffy. The lines just smoothed out . No itch, either!..." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the skin serum. They mention that it's made with high-quality oils and is all natural.

"...It is all natural and made with high quality oils . Leaves your skin soft and has definitely helped remove redness from my skin." Read more

" Nice product , didn't realize the amount a little pricey for the quantity, but feels nice on the skin." Read more

" Wonderful product , especially for winter. I use it over my serum and it keeps my skin moisturized and glowing." Read more

" Great product !" Read more

Customers say the oil is a natural, luxurious oil with a nice consistency. They say it's excellently moisturizing with no greasy residue. Customers also mention that it doesn't require high amounts and that one drop or perhaps two is sufficient enough.

"...It absorbs very quickly without any oily residue. Oils do not require high amounts ; one drop or perhaps two is sufficient enough...." Read more

"...I loved it! It is unscented, natural oil with a nice consistency that isn't too oily on your face...." Read more

"Excellently moisturizing with no greasy residue . I put it on last night and woke up with far more luminous skin and diminished dehydration lines." Read more

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Evidence-Based Skin Care: A Systematic Literature Review and the Development of a Basic Skin Care Algorithm

Affiliation.

• 1 Andrea Lichterfeld, MA, Clinical Research Center for Hair and Skin Science, Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany. Armin Hauss, MSc, Clinical Quality and Risk Management, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany Christian Surber, PhD, Department of Dermatology, University of Basel and Zurich, Switzerland. Tina Peters, MSc, Clinical Research Center for Hair and Skin Science, Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany. Ulrike Blume-Peytavi, MD, PhD, Clinical Research Center for Hair and Skin Science, Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany. Jan Kottner, PhD, Clinical Research Center for Hair and Skin Science, Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
• PMID: 26165590
• DOI: 10.1097/WON.0000000000000162

Patients in acute and long-term care settings receive daily routine skin care, including washing, bathing, and showering, often followed by application of lotions, creams, and/or ointments. These personal hygiene and skin care activities are integral parts of nursing practice, but little is known about their benefits or clinical efficacy. The aim of this article was to summarize the empirical evidence supporting basic skin care procedures and interventions and to develop a clinical algorithm for basic skin care. Electronic databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL were searched and afterward a forward search was conducted using Scopus and Web of Science. In order to evaluate a broad range of basic skin care interventions systematic reviews, intervention studies, and guidelines, consensus statements and best practice standards also were included in the analysis. One hundred twenty-one articles were read in full text; 41documents were included in this report about skin care for prevention of dry skin, prevention of incontinence-associated dermatitis and prevention of skin injuries. The methodological quality of the included publications was variable. Review results and expert input were used to create a clinical algorithm for basic skin care. A 2-step approach is proposed including general and special skin care. Interventions focus primarily on skin that is either too dry or too moist. The target groups for the algorithm are adult patients or residents with intact or preclinical damaged skin in care settings. The goal of the skin care algorithm is a first attempt to provide guidance for practitioners to improve basic skin care in clinical settings in order to maintain or increase skin health.

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• Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
• Systematic Review
• Dermatitis / nursing
• Dermatitis / prevention & control
• Dermatitis / therapy
• Evidence-Based Nursing
• Long-Term Care / methods*
• Long-Term Care / standards
• Skin Care / methods*
• Skin Care / nursing*
• Skin Care / standards

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• Research article
• Open access
• Published: 12 June 2019

The impact of skin care products on skin chemistry and microbiome dynamics

• Amina Bouslimani 1   na1 ,
• Ricardo da Silva 1   na1 ,
• Tomasz Kosciolek 2 ,
• Stefan Janssen 2 , 3 ,
• Chris Callewaert 2 , 4 ,
• Amnon Amir 2 ,
• Kathleen Dorrestein 1 ,
• Alexey V. Melnik 1 ,
• Livia S. Zaramela 2 ,
• Ji-Nu Kim 2 ,
• Gregory Humphrey 2 ,
• Tara Schwartz 2 ,
• Karenina Sanders 2 ,
• Caitriona Brennan 2 ,
• Tal Luzzatto-Knaan 1 ,
• Gail Ackermann 2 ,
• Daniel McDonald 2 ,
• Karsten Zengler 2 , 5 , 6 ,
• Rob Knight 2 , 5 , 6 , 7 &
• Pieter C. Dorrestein 1 , 2 , 5 , 8  

BMC Biology volume  17 , Article number:  47 ( 2019 ) Cite this article

97k Accesses

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Use of skin personal care products on a regular basis is nearly ubiquitous, but their effects on molecular and microbial diversity of the skin are unknown. We evaluated the impact of four beauty products (a facial lotion, a moisturizer, a foot powder, and a deodorant) on 11 volunteers over 9 weeks.

Mass spectrometry and 16S rRNA inventories of the skin revealed decreases in chemical as well as in bacterial and archaeal diversity on halting deodorant use. Specific compounds from beauty products used before the study remain detectable with half-lives of 0.5–1.9 weeks. The deodorant and foot powder increased molecular, bacterial, and archaeal diversity, while arm and face lotions had little effect on bacterial and archaeal but increased chemical diversity. Personal care product effects last for weeks and produce highly individualized responses, including alterations in steroid and pheromone levels and in bacterial and archaeal ecosystem structure and dynamics.

Conclusions

These findings may lead to next-generation precision beauty products and therapies for skin disorders.

The human skin is the most exposed organ to the external environment and represents the first line of defense against external chemical and microbial threats. It harbors a microbial habitat that is person-specific and varies considerably across the body surface [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ]. Recent findings suggested an association between the use of antiperspirants or make-up and skin microbiota composition [ 5 , 6 , 7 ]. However, these studies were performed for a short period (7–10 days) and/or without washing out the volunteers original personal care products, leading to incomplete evaluation of microbial alterations because the process of skin turnover takes 21–28 days [ 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 ]. It is well-established that without intervention, most adult human microbiomes, skin or other microbiomes, remain stable compared to the differences between individuals [ 3 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 ].

Although the skin microbiome is stable for years [ 10 ], little is known about the molecules that reside on the skin surface or how skin care products influence this chemistry [ 17 , 18 ]. Mass spectrometry can be used to detect host molecules, personalized lifestyles including diet, medications, and personal care products [ 18 , 19 ]. However, although the impact of short-term dietary interventions on the gut microbiome has been assessed [ 20 , 21 ], no study has yet tested how susceptible the skin chemistry and Microbiome are to alterations in the subjects’ personal care product routine.

In our recent metabolomic/microbiome 3D cartography study [ 18 ], we observed altered microbial communities where specific skin care products were present. Therefore, we hypothesized that these products might shape specific skin microbial communities by changing their chemical environment. Some beauty product ingredients likely promote or inhibit the growth of specific bacteria: for example, lipid components of moisturizers could provide nutrients and promote the growth of lipophilic bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Propionibacterium [ 18 , 22 , 23 ]. Understanding both temporal variations of the skin microbiome and chemistry is crucial for testing whether alterations in personal habits can influence the human skin ecosystem and, perhaps, host health. To evaluate these variations, we used a multi-omics approach integrating metabolomics and microbiome data from skin samples of 11 healthy human individuals. Here, we show that many compounds from beauty products persist on the skin for weeks following their use, suggesting a long-term contribution to the chemical environment where skin microbes live. Metabolomics analysis reveals temporal trends correlated to discontinuing and resuming the use of beauty products and characteristic of variations in molecular composition of the skin. Although highly personalized, as seen with the microbiome, the chemistry, including hormones and pheromones such as androstenone and androsterone, were dramatically altered. Similarly, by experimentally manipulating the personal care regime of participants, bacterial and molecular diversity and structure are altered, particularly for the armpits and feet. Interestingly, a high person-to-person molecular and bacterial variability is maintained over time even though personal care regimes were modified in exactly the same way for all participants.

Skin care and hygiene products persist on the skin

Systematic strategies to influence both the skin chemistry and microbiome have not yet been investigated. The outermost layer of the skin turns over every 3 to 4 weeks [ 8 , 9 ]. How the microbiome and chemistry are influenced by altering personal care and how long the chemicals of personal care products persist on the skin are essentially uncharacterized. In this study, we collected samples from skin of 12 healthy individuals—six males and six females—over 9 weeks. One female volunteer had withdrawn due to skin irritations that developed, and therefore, we describe the remaining 11 volunteers. Samples were collected from each arm, armpit, foot, and face, including both the right and left sides of the body (Fig.  1 a). All participants were asked to adhere to the same daily personal care routine during the first 6 weeks of this study (Fig.  1 b). The volunteers were asked to refrain from using any personal care product for weeks 1–3 except a mild body wash (Fig.  1 b). During weeks 4–6, in addition to the body wash, participants were asked to apply selected commercial skin care products at specific body parts: a moisturizer on the arm, a sunscreen on the face, an antiperspirant on the armpits, and a soothing powder on the foot (Fig.  1 b). To monitor adherence of participants to the study protocol, molecular features found in the antiperspirant, facial lotion, moisturizer, and foot powder were directly tracked with mass spectrometry from the skin samples. For all participants, the mass spectrometry data revealed the accumulation of specific beauty product ingredients during weeks 4–6 (Additional file  1 : Figure S1A-I, Fig.  2 a orange arrows). Examples of compounds that were highly abundant during T4–T6 in skin samples are avobenzone (Additional file  1 : Figure S1A), dexpanthenol (Additional file  1 : Figure S1B), and benzalkonium chloride (Additional file  1 : Figure S1C) from the facial sunscreen; trehalose 6-phosphate (Additional file  1 : Figure S1D) and glycerol stearate (Additional file  1 : Figure S1E) from the moisturizer applied on arms; indolin (Additional file  1 : Figure S1F) and an unannotated compound ( m/z 233.9, rt 183.29 s) (Additional file  1 : Figure S1G) from the foot powder; and decapropylene glycol (Additional file  1 : Figure S1H) and nonapropylene glycol (Additional file  1 : Figure S1I) from the antiperspirant. These results suggest that there is likely a compliance of all individuals to study requirements and even if all participants confirmed using each product every day, the amount of product applied by each individual may vary. Finally, for weeks 7–9, the participants were asked to return to their normal routine by using the same personal care products they used prior to the study. In total, excluding all blanks and personal care products themselves, we analyzed 2192 skin samples for both metabolomics and microbiome analyses.

Study design and representation of changes in personal care regime over the course of 9 weeks. a Six males and six females were recruited and sampled using swabs on two locations from each body part (face, armpits, front forearms, and between toes) on the right and left side. The locations sampled were the face—upper cheek bone and lower jaw, armpit—upper and lower area, arm—front of elbow (antecubitis) and forearm (antebrachium), and feet—in between the first and second toe and third and fourth toe. Volunteers were asked to follow specific instructions for the use of skin care products. b Following the use of their personal skin care products (brown circles), all volunteers used only the same head to toe shampoo during the first 3 weeks (week 1–week 3) and no other beauty product was applied (solid blue circle). The following 3 weeks (week 4–week 6), four selected commercial beauty products were applied daily by all volunteers on the specific body part (deodorant antiperspirant for the armpits, soothing foot powder for the feet between toes, sunscreen for the face, and moisturizer for the front forearm) (triangles) and continued to use the same shampoo. During the last 3 weeks (week 7–week 9), all volunteers went back to their normal routine and used their personal beauty products (circles). Samples were collected once a week (from day 0 to day 68—10 timepoints from T0 to T9) for volunteers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, and 12, and on day 0 and day 6 for volunteer 8, who withdraw from the study after day 6. For 3 individuals (volunteers 4, 9, 10), samples were collected twice a week (19 timepoints total). Samples collected for 11 volunteers during 10 timepoints: 11 volunteers × 10 timepoints × 4 samples × 4 body sites = 1760. Samples collected from 3 selected volunteers during 9 additional timepoints: 3 volunteers × 9 timepoints × 4 samples × 4 body sites = 432. See also the “ Subject recruitment and sample collection ” section in the “ Methods ” section

Monitoring the persistence of personal care product ingredients in the armpits over a 9-week period. a Heatmap representation of the most abundant molecular features detected in the armpits of all individuals during the four phases (0: initial, 1–3: no beauty products, 4–6: common products, and 7–9: personal products). Green color in the heatmap represents the highest molecular abundance and blue color the lowest one. Orange boxes with plain lines represent enlargement of cluster of molecules that persist on the armpits of volunteer 1 ( b ) and volunteer 3 ( c , d ). Orange clusters with dotted lines represent same clusters of molecules found on the armpits of other volunteers. Orange arrows represent the cluster of compounds characteristic of the antiperspirant used during T4–T6. b Polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecular clusters that persist on the armpits of individual 1. The molecular subnetwork, representing molecular families [ 24 ], is part of a molecular network ( http://gnps.ucsd.edu/ProteoSAFe/status.jsp?task=f5325c3b278a46b29e8860ec5791d5ad ) generated from MS/MS data collected from the armpits of volunteer 1 (T0–T3) MSV000081582 and MS/MS data collected from the deodorant used by volunteer 1 before the study started (T0) MSV000081580. c , d Polypropylene glycol (PPG) molecular families that persist on the armpits of individual 3, along with the corresponding molecular subnetwork that is part of the molecular network accessible here http://gnps.ucsd.edu/ProteoSAFe/status.jsp?task=aaa1af68099d4c1a87e9a09f398fe253 . Subnetworks were generated from MS/MS data collected from the armpits of volunteer 3 (T0–T3) MSV000081582 and MS/MS data collected from the deodorant used by volunteer 3 at T0 MSV000081580. The network nodes were annotated with colors. Nodes represent MS/MS spectra found in armpit samples of individual 1 collected during T0, T1, T2, and T3 and in personal deodorant used by individual 1 (orange nodes); armpit samples of individual 1 collected during T0, T2, and T3 and personal deodorant used by individual 1 (green nodes); armpit samples of individual 3 collected during T0, T1, T2, and T3 and in personal deodorant used by individual 3 (red nodes); armpit samples of individual 3 collected during T0 and in personal deodorant used by individual 3 (blue nodes); and armpit samples of individual 3 collected during T0 and T2 and in personal deodorant used by individual 3 (purple nodes). Gray nodes represent everything else. Error bars represent standard error of the mean calculated at each timepoint from four armpit samples collected from the right and left side of each individual separately. See also Additional file  1 : Figure S1

To understand how long beauty products persist on the skin, we monitored compounds found in deodorants used by two volunteers—female 1 and female 3—before the study (T0), over the first 3 weeks (T1–T3) (Fig.  1 b). During this phase, all participants used exclusively the same body wash during showering, making it easier to track ingredients of their personal care products. The data in the first 3 weeks (T1–T3) revealed that many ingredients of deodorants used on armpits (Fig.  2 a) persist on the skin during this time and were still detected during the first 3 weeks or at least during the first week following the last day of use. Each of the compounds detected in the armpits of individuals exhibited its own unique half-life. For example, the polyethylene glycol (PEG)-derived compounds m/z 344.227, rt 143 s (Fig.  2 b, S1J); m/z 432.279, rt 158 s (Fig.  2 b, S1K); and m/z 388.253, rt 151 s (Fig.  2 b, S1L) detected on armpits of volunteer 1 have a calculated half-life of 0.5 weeks (Additional file  1 : Figure S1J-L, all p values < 1.81e−07), while polypropylene glycol (PPG)-derived molecules m/z 481.87, rt 501 s (Fig.  2 c, S1M); m/z 560.420, rt 538 s (Fig.  2 c, S1N); m/z 788.608, rt 459 s (Fig.  2 d, S1O); m/z 846.650, rt 473 s (Fig.  2 d, S1P); and m/z 444.338, rt 486 s (Fig.  2 d, S1Q) found on armpits of volunteers 3 and 1 (Fig.  2 a) have a calculated half-life ranging from 0.7 to 1.9 weeks (Additional file  1 : Figure S1M-Q, all p values < 0.02), even though they originate from the same deodorant used by each individual. For some ingredients of deodorant used by volunteer 3 on time 0 (Additional file  1 : Figure S1M, N), a decline was observed during the first week, then little to no traces of these ingredients were detected during weeks 4–6 (T4–T6), then finally these ingredients reappear again during the last 3 weeks of personal product use (T7–T9). This suggests that these ingredients are present exclusively in the personal deodorant used by volunteer 3 before the study. Because a similar deodorant (Additional file  1 : Figure S1O-Q) and a face lotion (Additional file  1 : Figure S1R) was used by volunteer 3 and volunteer 2, respectively, prior to the study, there was no decline or absence of their ingredients during weeks 4–6 (T4–T6).

Polyethylene glycol compounds (Additional file  1 : Figure S1J-L) wash out faster from the skin than polypropylene glycol (Additional file  1 : Figure S1M-Q)(HL ~ 0.5 weeks vs ~ 1.9 weeks) and faster than fatty acids used in lotions (HL ~ 1.2 weeks) (Additional file  1 : Figure S1R), consistent with their hydrophilic (PEG) and hydrophobic properties (PPG and fatty acids) [ 25 , 26 ]. This difference in hydrophobicity is also reflected in the retention time as detected by mass spectrometry. Following the linear decrease of two PPG compounds from T0 to T1, they accumulated noticeably during weeks 2 and 3 (Additional file  1 : Figure S1M, N). This accumulation might be due to other sources of PPG such as the body wash used during this period or the clothes worn by person 3. Although PPG compounds were not listed in the ingredient list of the shampoo, we manually inspected the LC-MS data collected from this product and confirmed the absence of PPG compounds in the shampoo. The data suggest that this trend is characteristic of accumulation of PPG from additional sources. These could be clothes, beds, or sheets, in agreement with the observation of these molecules found in human habitats [ 27 ] but also in the public GNPS mass spectrometry dataset MSV000079274 that investigated the chemicals from dust collected from 1053 mattresses of children.

Temporal molecular and bacterial diversity in response to personal care use

To assess the effect of discontinuing and resuming the use of skin care products on molecular and microbiota dynamics, we first evaluated their temporal diversity. Skin sites varied markedly in their initial level (T0) of molecular and bacterial diversity, with higher molecular diversity at all sites for female participants compared to males (Fig.  3 a, b, Wilcoxon rank-sum-WR test, p values ranging from 0.01 to 0.0001, from foot to arm) and higher bacterial diversity in face (WR test, p  = 0.0009) and armpits (WR test, p  = 0.002) for females (Fig.  3 c, d). Temporal diversity was similar across the right and left sides of each body site of all individuals (WR test, molecular diversity: all p values > 0.05; bacterial diversity: all p values > 0.20). The data show that refraining from using beauty products (T1–T3) leads to a significant decrease in molecular diversity at all sites (Fig.  3 a, b, WR test, face: p  = 8.29e−07, arm: p  = 7.08e−09, armpit: p  = 1.13e−05, foot: p  = 0.002) and bacterial diversity mainly in armpits (WR test, p  = 0.03) and feet (WR test, p  = 0.04) (Fig.  3 c, d). While molecular diversity declined (Fig.  3 a, b) for arms and face, bacterial diversity (Fig.  3 c, d) was less affected in the face and arms when participants did not use skin care products (T1–T3). The molecular diversity remained stable in the arms and face of female participants during common beauty products use (T4–T6) to immediately increase as soon as the volunteers went back to their normal routines (T7–T9) (WR test, p  = 0.006 for the arms and face)(Fig.  3 a, b). A higher molecular (Additional file  1 : Figure S2A) and community (Additional file  1 : Figure S2B) diversity was observed for armpits and feet of all individuals during the use of antiperspirant and foot powder (T4–T6) (WR test, molecular diversity: armpit p  = 8.9e−33, foot p  = 1.03e−11; bacterial diversity: armpit p  = 2.14e−28, foot p  = 1.26e−11), followed by a molecular and bacterial diversity decrease in the armpits when their regular personal beauty product use was resumed (T7–T9) (bacterial diversity: WR test, p  = 4.780e−21, molecular diversity: WR test, p  = 2.159e−21). Overall, our data show that refraining from using beauty products leads to lower molecular and bacterial diversity, while resuming the use increases their diversity. Distinct variations between male and female molecular and community richness were perceived at distinct body parts (Fig.  3 a–d). Although the chemical diversity of personal beauty products does not explain these variations (Additional file  1 : Figure S2C), differences observed between males and females may be attributed to many environmental and lifestyle factors including different original skin care and different frequency of use of beauty products (Additional file  2 : Table S1), washing routines, and diet.

Molecular and bacterial diversity over a 9-week period, comparing samples based on their molecular (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) or bacterial (16S rRNA amplicon) profiles. Molecular and bacterial diversity using the Shannon index was calculated from samples collected from each body part at each timepoint, separately for female ( n  = 5) and male ( n  = 6) individuals. Error bars represent standard error of the mean calculated at each timepoint, from up to four samples collected from the right and left side of each body part, of females ( n  = 5) and males ( n  = 6) separately. a , b Molecular alpha diversity measured using the Shannon index from five females (left panel) and six males (right panel), over 9 weeks, from four distinct body parts (armpits, face, arms, feet). c , d Bacterial alpha diversity measured using the Shannon index, from skin samples collected from five female (left panel) and six male individuals (right panel), over 9 weeks, from four distinct body parts (armpits, face, arms, feet). See also Additional file  1 : Figure S2

Longitudinal variation of skin metabolomics signatures

To gain insights into temporal metabolomics variation associated with beauty product use, chemical inventories collected over 9 weeks were subjected to multivariate analysis using the widely used Bray–Curtis dissimilarity metric (Fig.  4 a–c, S3A). Throughout the 9-week period, distinct molecular signatures were associated to each specific body site: arm, armpit, face, and foot (Additional file  1 : Figure S3A, Adonis test, p  < 0.001, R 2 0.12391). Mass spectrometric signatures displayed distinct individual trends at each specific body site (arm, armpit, face, and foot) over time, supported by their distinct locations in PCoA (principal coordinate analysis) space (Fig.  4 a, b) and based on the Bray–Curtis distances between molecular profiles (Additional file  1 : Figure S3B, WR test, all p values < 0.0001 from T0 through T9). This suggests a high molecular inter-individual variability over time despite similar changes in personal care routines. Significant differences in molecular patterns associated to ceasing (T1–T3) (Fig.  4 b, Additional file 1 : Figure S3C, WR test, T0 vs T1–T3 p  < 0.001) and resuming the use of common beauty products (T4–T6) (Additional file  1 : Figure S3C) were observed in the arm, face, and foot (Fig.  4 b), although the armpit exhibited the most pronounced changes (Fig.  4 b, Additional file 1 : Figure S3D, E, random forest highlighting that 100% of samples from each phase were correctly predicted). Therefore, we focused our analysis on this region. Molecular changes were noticeable starting the first week (T1) of discontinuing beauty product use. As shown for armpits in Fig.  4 c, these changes at the chemical level are specific to each individual, possibly due to the extremely personalized lifestyles before the study and match their original use of deodorant. Based on the initial use of underarm products (T0) (Additional file  2 : Table S1), two groups of participants can be distinguished: a group of five volunteers who used stick deodorant as evidenced by the mass spectrometry data and another group of volunteers where we found few or no traces suggesting they never or infrequently used stick deodorants (Additional file  2 : Table S1). Based on this criterion, the chemical trends shown in Fig.  4 c highlight that individuals who used stick deodorant before the beginning of the study (volunteers 1, 2, 3, 9, and 12) displayed a more pronounced shift in their armpits’ chemistries as soon as they stopped using deodorant (T1–T3), compared to individuals who had low detectable levels of stick deodorant use (volunteers 4, 6, 7, and 10), or “rarely-to-never” (volunteers 5 and 11) use stick deodorants as confirmed by the volunteers (Additional file  1 : Figure S3F, WR test, T0 vs T1–T3 all p values < 0.0001, with greater distance for the group of volunteers 1, 2, 3, 9, and 12, compared to volunteers 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, and 11). The most drastic shift in chemical profiles was observed during the transition period, when all participants applied the common antiperspirant on a daily basis (T4–T6) (Additional file  1 : Figure S3D, E). Finally, the molecular profiles became gradually more similar to those collected before the experiment (T0) as soon as the participants resumed using their personal beauty products (T7–T9) (Additional file  1 : Figure S3C), although traces of skin care products did last through the entire T7–T9 period in people who do not routinely apply these products (Fig.  4 c).

Individualized influence of beauty product application on skin metabolomics profiles over time. a Multivariate statistical analysis (principal coordinate analysis (PCoA)) comparing mass spectrometry data collected over 9 weeks from the skin of 11 individuals, all body parts, combined (first plot from the left) and then displayed separately (arm, armpits, face, feet). Color scale represents volunteer ID. The PCoA was calculated on all samples together, and subsets of the data are shown in this shared space and the other panels. b The molecular profiles collected over 9 weeks from all body parts, combined then separately (arm, armpits, face, feet). c Representative molecular profiles collected over 9 weeks from armpits of 11 individuals (volunteers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12). Color gradient in b and c represents timepoints (time 0 to time 9), ranging from the lightest orange color to the darkest one that represent the earliest (time 0) to the latest (time 9) timepoint, respectively. 0.5 timepoints represent additional timepoints where three selected volunteers were samples (volunteers 4, 9, and 10). PCoA plots were generated using the Bray–Curtis dissimilarity matrix and visualized in Emperor [ 28 ]. See also Additional file  1 : Figure S3

Comparing chemistries detected in armpits at the end timepoints—when no products were used (T3) and during product use (T6)—revealed distinct molecular signatures characteristic of each phase (random forest highlighting that 100% of samples from each group were correctly predicted, see Additional file  1 : Figure S3D, E). Because volunteers used the same antiperspirant during T4–T6, molecular profiles converged during that time despite individual patterns at T3 (Fig.  4 b, c, Additional file  1 : Figure S3D). These distinct chemical patterns reflect the significant impact of beauty products on skin molecular composition. Although these differences may in part be driven by beauty product ingredients detected on the skin (Additional file  1 : Figure S1), we anticipated that additional host- and microbe-derived molecules may also be involved in these molecular changes.

To characterize the chemistries that vary over time, we used molecular networking, a MS visualization approach that evaluates the relationship between MS/MS spectra and compares them to reference MS/MS spectral libraries of known compounds [ 29 , 30 ]. We recently showed that molecular networking can successfully organize large-scale mass spectrometry data collected from the human skin surface [ 18 , 19 ]. Briefly, molecular networking uses the MScluster algorithm [ 31 ] to merge all identical spectra and then compares and aligns all unique pairs of MS/MS spectra based on their similarities where 1.0 indicates a perfect match. Similarities between MS/MS spectra are calculated using a similarity score, and are interpreted as molecular families [ 19 , 24 , 32 , 33 , 34 ]. Here, we used this method to compare and characterize chemistries found in armpits, arms, face, and foot of 11 participants. Based on MS/MS spectral similarities, chemistries highlighted through molecular networking (Additional file  1 : Figure S4A) were associated with each body region with 8% of spectra found exclusively in the arms, 12% in the face, 14% in the armpits, and 2% in the foot, while 18% of the nodes were shared between all four body parts and the rest of spectra were shared between two body sites or more (Additional file  1 : Figure S4B). Greater spectral similarities were highlighted between armpits, face, and arm (12%) followed by the arm and face (9%) (Additional file  1 : Figure S4B).

Molecules were annotated with Global Natural Products Social Molecular Networking (GNPS) libraries [ 29 ], using accurate parent mass and MS/MS fragmentation patterns, according to level 2 or 3 of annotation defined by the 2007 metabolomics standards initiative [ 35 ]. Through annotations, molecular networking revealed that many compounds derived from steroids (Fig.  5 a–d), bile acids (Additional file  1 : Figure S5A-D), and acylcarnitines (Additional file  1 : Figure S5E-F) were exclusively detected in the armpits. Using authentic standards, the identity of some pheromones and bile acids were validated to a level 1 identification with matched retention times (Additional file  1 : Figure S6B, S7A, C, D). Other steroids and bile acids were either annotated using standards with identical MS/MS spectra but slightly different retention times (Additional file  1 : Figure S6A) or annotated with MS/MS spectra match with reference MS/MS library spectra (Additional file  1 : Figure S6C, D, S7B, S6E-G). These compounds were therefore classified as level 3 [ 35 ]. Acylcarnitines were annotated to a family of possible acylcarnitines (we therefore classify as level 3), as the positions of double bonds or cis vs trans configurations are unknown (Additional file  1 : Figure S8A, B).

Underarm steroids and their longitudinal abundance. a – d Steroid molecular families in the armpits and their relative abundance over a 9-week period. Molecular networking was applied to characterize chemistries from the skin of 11 healthy individuals. The full network is shown in Additional file  1 : Figure S4A, and networking parameters can be found here http://gnps.ucsd.edu/ProteoSAFe/status.jsp?task=284fc383e4c44c4db48912f01905f9c5 for MS/MS datasets MSV000081582. Each node represents a consensus of a minimum of 3 identical MS/MS spectra. Yellow nodes represent MS/MS spectra detected in armpits samples. Hexagonal shape represents MS/MS spectra match between skin samples and chemical standards. Plots are representative of the relative abundance of each compound over time, calculated separately from LC-MS1 data collected from the armpits of each individual. Steroids detected in armpits are a , dehydroisoandrosterone sulfate ( m/z 369.190, rt 247 s), b androsterone sulfate ( m/z 371.189, rt 261 s), c 1-dehydroandrostenedione ( m/z 285.185, rt 273 s), and d dehydroandrosterone ( m/z 289.216, rt 303 s). Relative abundance over time of each steroid compound is represented. Error bars represent the standard error of the mean calculated at each timepoint from four armpit samples from the right and left side of each individual separately. See also Additional file  1 : Figures S4-S8

Among the steroid compounds, several molecular families were characterized: androsterone (Fig.  5 a, b, d), androstadienedione (Fig.  5 c), androstanedione (Additional file  1 : Figure S6E), androstanolone (Additional file  1 : Figure S6F), and androstenedione (Additional file  1 : Figure S6G). While some steroids were detected in the armpits of several individuals, such as dehydroisoandrosterone sulfate ( m/z 369.19, rt 247 s) (9 individuals) (Fig.  5 a, Additional file  1 : Figure S6A), androsterone sulfate ( m/z 371.189, rt 261 s) (9 individuals) (Fig.  5 b, Additional file  1 : Figure S6C), and 5-alpha-androstane-3,17-dione ( m/z 271.205, rt 249 s) (9 individuals) (Additional file  1 : Figure S6E), other steroids including 1-dehydroandrostenedione ( m/z 285.185, rt 273 s) (Fig.  5 c, Additional file  1 : Figure S6B), dehydroandrosterone ( m/z 289.216, rt 303 s) (Fig.  5 d, Additional file 1 : Figure S6D), and 5-alpha-androstan-17.beta-ol-3-one ( m/z 291.231, rt 318 s) (Additional file  1 : Figure S6F) were only found in the armpits of volunteer 11 and 4-androstene-3,17-dione ( m/z 287.200, rt 293 s) in the armpits of volunteer 11 and volunteer 5, both are male that never applied stick deodorants (Additional file  1 : Figure S6G). Each molecular species exhibited a unique pattern over the 9-week period. The abundance of dehydroisoandrosterone sulfate (Fig.  5 a, WR test, p  < 0.01 for 7 individuals) and dehydroandrosterone (Fig.  5 a, WR test, p  = 0.00025) significantly increased during the use of antiperspirant (T4–T6), while androsterone sulfate (Fig.  5 b) and 5-alpha-androstane-3,17-dione (Additional file  1 : Figure S6E) display little variation over time. Unlike dehydroisoandrosterone sulfate (Fig.  5 a) and dehydroandrosterone (Fig.  5 d), steroids including 1-dehydroandrostenedione (Fig.  5 c, WR test, p  = 0.00024) and 4-androstene-3,17-dione (Additional file  1 : Figure S6G, WR test, p  = 0.00012) decreased in abundance during the 3 weeks of antiperspirant application (T4–T6) in armpits of male 11, and their abundance increased again when resuming the use of his normal skin care routines (T7–T9). Interestingly, even within the same individual 11, steroids were differently impacted by antiperspirant use as seen for 1-dehydroandrostenedione that decreased in abundance during T4–T6 (Fig.  5 c, WR test, p  = 0.00024), while dehydroandrosterone increased in abundance (Fig.  5 d, WR test, p  = 0.00025), and this increase was maintained during the last 3 weeks of the study (T7–T9).

In addition to steroids, many bile acids (Additional file  1 : Figure S5A-D) and acylcarnitines (Additional file  1 : Figure S5E-F) were detected on the skin of several individuals through the 9-week period. Unlike taurocholic acid found only on the face (Additional file  1 : Figures S5A, S7A) and tauroursodeoxycholic acid detected in both armpits and arm samples (Additional file  1 : Figures S5B, S7B), other primary bile acids such as glycocholic (Additional file  1 : Figures S5C, S7C) and chenodeoxyglycocholic acid (Additional file  1 : Figures S5D, S7D) were exclusively detected in the armpits. Similarly, acylcarnitines were also found either exclusively in the armpits (hexadecanoyl carnitines) (Additional file  1 : Figures S5E, S8A) or in the armpits and face (tetradecenoyl carnitine) (Additional file  1 : Figures S5F, S8B) and, just like the bile acids, they were also stably detected during the whole 9-week period.

Bacterial communities and their variation over time

Having demonstrated the impact of beauty products on the chemical makeup of the skin, we next tested the extent to which skin microbes are affected by personal care products. We assessed temporal variation of bacterial communities detected on the skin of healthy individuals by evaluating dissimilarities of bacterial collections over time using unweighted UniFrac distance [ 36 ] and community variation at each body site in association to beauty product use [ 3 , 15 , 37 ]. Unweighted metrics are used for beta diversity calculations because we are primarily concerned with changes in community membership rather than relative abundance. The reason for this is that skin microbiomes can fluctuate dramatically in relative abundance on shorter timescales than that assessed here. Longitudinal variations were revealed for the armpits (Fig.  6 a) and feet microbiome by their overall trend in the PCoA plots (Fig.  6 b), while the arm (Fig.  6 c) and face (Fig.  6 d) displayed relatively stable bacterial profiles over time. As shown in Fig.  6 a–d, although the microbiome was site-specific, it varied more between individuals and this inter-individual variability was maintained over time despite same changes in personal care routine (WR test, all p values at all timepoints < 0.05, T5 p  = 0.07), in agreement with previous findings that individual differences in the microbiome are large and stable over time [ 3 , 4 , 10 , 37 ]. However, we show that shifts in the microbiome can be induced by changing hygiene routine and therefore skin chemistry. Changes associated with using beauty products (T4–T6) were more pronounced for the armpits (Fig.  6 a, WR test, p  = 1.61e−52) and feet (Fig.  6 b, WR test, p  = 6.15e−09), while little variations were observed for the face (Fig.  6 d, WR test, p  = 1.402.e−83) and none for the arms (Fig.  6 c, WR test, p  = 0.296).

Longitudinal variation of skin bacterial communities in association with beauty product use. a - d Bacterial profiles collected from skin samples of 11 individuals, over 9 weeks, from four distinct body parts a) armpits, b) feet, c) arms and d) face, using multivariate statistical analysis (Principal Coordinates Analysis PCoA) and unweighted Unifrac metric. Each color represents bacterial samples collected from an individual. PCoA were calculated separately for each body part. e , f Representative Gram-negative (Gram -) bacteria collected from arms, armpits, face and feet of e) female and f) male participants. See also Additional file  1 : Figure S9A, B showing Gram-negative bacterial communities represented at the genus level

A significant increase in abundance of Gram-negative bacteria including the phyla Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes was noticeable for the armpits and feet of both females (Fig.  6 e; Mann–Whitney U , p  = 8.458e−07) and males (Fig.  6 f; Mann–Whitney U , p  = 0.0004) during the use of antiperspirant (T4–T6), while their abundance remained stable for the arms and face during that time (Fig.  6 e, f; female arm p  = 0.231; female face p value = 0.475; male arm p = 0.523;male face p  = 6.848751e−07). These Gram-negative bacteria include Acinetobacter and Paracoccus genera that increased in abundance in both armpits and feet of females (Additional file  1 : Figure S9A), while a decrease in abundance of Enhydrobacter was observed in the armpits of males (Additional file  1 : Figure S9B). Cyanobacteria, potentially originating from plant material (Additional file  1 : Figure S9C) also increased during beauty product use (T4–T6) especially in males, in the armpits and face of females (Fig.  6 e) and males (Fig.  6 f). Interestingly, although chloroplast sequences (which group phylogenetically within the cyanobacteria [ 38 ]) were only found in the facial cream (Additional file  1 : Figure S9D), they were detected in other locations as well (Fig.  6 e, f. S9E, F), highlighting that the application of a product in one region will likely affect other regions of the body. For example, when showering, a face lotion will drip down along the body and may be detected on the feet. Indeed, not only did the plant material from the cream reveal this but also the shampoo used for the study for which molecular signatures were readily detected on the feet as well (Additional file  1 : Figure S10A). Minimal average changes were observed for Gram-positive organisms (Additional file  1 : Figure S10B, C), although in some individuals the variation was greater than others (Additional file  1 : Figure S10D, E) as discussed for specific Gram-positive taxa below.

At T0, the armpit’s microflora was dominated by Staphylococcus (26.24%, 25.11% of sequencing reads for females and 27.36% for males) and Corynebacterium genera (26.06%, 17.89% for females and 34.22% for males) (Fig.  7 a—first plot from left and Additional file  1 : Figure S10D, E). They are generally known as the dominant armpit microbiota and make up to 80% of the armpit microbiome [ 39 , 40 ]. When no deodorants were used (T1–T3), an overall increase in relative abundance of Staphylococcus (37.71%, 46.78% for females and 30.47% for males) and Corynebacterium (31.88%, 16.50% for females and 44.15% for males) genera was noticeable (WR test, p  < 3.071e−05) (Fig.  7 a—first plot from left), while the genera Anaerococcus and Peptoniphilus decreased in relative abundance (WR test, p  < 0.03644) (Fig.  7 a—first plot from left and Additional file  1 : Figure S10D, E). When volunteers started using antiperspirants (T4–T6), the relative abundance of Staphylococcus (37.71%, 46.78% females and 30.47% males, to 21.71%, 25.02% females and 19.25% males) and Corynebacterium (31.88%, 16.50% females and 44.15% males, to 15.83%, 10.76% females and 19.60% males) decreased (WR test, p  < 3.071e−05) (Fig.  7 a, Additional file  1 : Figure S10D, E) and at the same time, the overall alpha diversity increased significantly (WR test, p  = 3.47e−11) (Fig.  3 c, d). The microbiota Anaerococcus (WR test, p  = 0.0006018) , Peptoniphilus (WR test, p  = 0.008639), and Micrococcus (WR test, p  = 0.0377) increased significantly in relative abundance, together with a lot of additional low-abundant species that lead to an increase in Shannon alpha diversity (Fig.  3 c, d). When participants went back to normal personal care products (T7–T9), the underarm microbiome resembled the original underarm community of T0 (WR test, p  = 0.7274) (Fig.  7 a). Because armpit bacterial communities are person-specific (inter-individual variability: WR test, all p values at all timepoints < 0.05, besides T5 p n.s), variation in bacterial abundance upon antiperspirant use (T4–T6) differ between individuals and during the whole 9-week period (Fig.  7a —taxonomic plots per individual). For example, the underarm microbiome of male 5 exhibited a unique pattern, where Corynebacterium abundance decreased drastically during the use of antiperspirant (82.74 to 11.71%, WR test, p  = 3.518e−05) while in the armpits of female 9 a huge decrease in Staphylococcus abundance was observed (Fig.  7 a) (65.19 to 14.85%, WR test, p  = 0.000113). Unlike other participants, during T0–T3, the armpits of individual 11 were uniquely characterized by the dominance of a sequence that matched most closely to the Enhydrobacter genera . The transition to antiperspirant use (T4–T6) induces the absence of Enhydrobacter (30.77 to 0.48%, WR test, p  = 0.01528) along with an increase of Corynebacterium abundance (26.87 to 49.74%, WR test, p  = 0.1123) (Fig.  7 a—male 11).

Person-to-person bacterial variabilities over time in the armpits and feet. a Armpit microbiome changes when stopping personal care product use, then resuming. Armpit bacterial composition of the 11 volunteers combined, then separately, (female 1, female 2, female 3, male 4, male 5, male 6, male 7, female 9, male 10, male 11, female 12) according to the four periods within the experiment. b Feet bacterial variation over time of the 12 volunteers combined, then separately (female 1, female 2, female 3, male 4, male 5, male 6, male 7, female 9, male 10, male 11, female 12) according to the four periods within the experiment. See also Additional file  1 : Figure S9-S13

In addition to the armpits, a decline in abundance of Staphylococcus and Corynebacterium was perceived during the use of the foot powder (46.93% and 17.36%, respectively) compared to when no beauty product was used (58.35% and 22.99%, respectively) (WR test, p  = 9.653e−06 and p  = 0.02032, respectively), while the abundance of low-abundant foot bacteria significantly increased such as Micrococcus (WR test, p  = 1.552e−08), Anaerococcus (WR test, p  = 3.522e−13), Streptococcus (WR test, p  = 1.463e−06), Brevibacterium (WR test, p  = 6.561e−05), Moraxellaceae (WR test, p  = 0.0006719), and Acinetobacter (WR test, p  = 0.001487), leading to a greater bacterial diversity compared to other phases of the study (Fig.  7 b first plot from left, Additional file  1 : Figure S10D, E, Fig.  3 c, d).

We further evaluated the relationship between the two omics datasets by superimposing the principal coordinates calculated from metabolome and microbiome data (Procrustes analysis) (Additional file  1 : Figure S11) [ 34 , 41 , 42 ]. Metabolomics data were more correlated with patterns observed in microbiome data in individual 3 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11C, Mantel test, r  = 0.23, p  < 0.001), individual 5 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11E, r  = 0.42, p  < 0.001), individual 9 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11H, r  = 0.24, p  < 0.001), individual 10 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11I, r  = 0.38, p  < 0.001), and individual 11 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11J, r  = 0.35, p  < 0.001) when compared to other individuals 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, and 12 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11A, B, D, F, G, K, respectively) (Mantel test, all r  < 0.2, all p values < 0.002, for volunteer 2 p n.s). Furthermore, these correlations were individually affected by ceasing (T1–T3) or resuming the use of beauty products (T4–T6 and T7–T9) (Additional file  1 : Figure S11A-K).

Overall, metabolomics–microbiome correlations were consistent over time for the arms, face, and feet although alterations were observed in the arms of volunteers 7 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11G) and 10 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11I) and the face of volunteer 7 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11G) during product use (T4–T6). Molecular–bacterial correlations were mostly affected in the armpits during antiperspirant use (T4–T6), as seen for volunteers male 7 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11G) and 11 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11J) and females 2 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11B), 9 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11H), and 12 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11K). This perturbation either persisted during the last 3 weeks (Additional file  1 : Figure S11D, E, H, I, K) when individuals went back to their normal routine (T7–T9) or resembled the initial molecular–microbial correlation observed in T0 (Additional file  1 : Figure S11C, G, J). These alterations in molecular–bacterial correlation are driven by metabolomics changes during antiperspirant use as revealed by metabolomics shifts on the PCoA space (Additional file  1 : Figure S11), partially due to the deodorant’s chemicals (Additional file  1 : Figure S1J, K) but also to changes observed in steroid levels in the armpits (Fig.  5A, C, D , Additional file 1 : Figure S6G), suggesting metabolome-dependant changes of the skin microbiome. In agreement with previous findings that showed efficient biotransformation of steroids by Corynebacterium [ 43 , 44 ], our correlation analysis associates specific steroids that were affected by antiperspirant use in the armpits of volunteer 11 (Fig.  5 c, d, Additional file 1 : Figure S6G) with microbes that may produce or process them: 1-dehydroandrostenedione, androstenedione, and dehydrosterone with Corynebacterium ( r  = − 0.674, p  = 6e−05; r  = 0.671, p  = 7e−05; r  = 0.834, p  < 1e−05, respectively) (Additional file  1 : Figure S12A, B, C, respectively) and Enhydrobacter ( r  = 0.683, p  = 4e−05; r  = 0.581, p  = 0.00095; r  = 0.755, p  < 1e−05 respectively) (Additional file  1 : Figure S12D, E, F, respectively).

Despite the widespread use of skin care and hygiene products, their impact on the molecular and microbial composition of the skin is poorly studied. We established a workflow that examines individuals to systematically study the impact of such lifestyle characteristics on the skin by taking a broad look at temporal molecular and bacterial inventories and linking them to personal skin care product use. Our study reveals that when the hygiene routine is modified, the skin metabolome and microbiome can be altered, but that this alteration depends on product use and location on the body. We also show that like gut microbiome responses to dietary changes [ 20 , 21 ], the responses are individual-specific.

We recently reported that traces of our lifestyle molecules can be detected on the skin days and months after the original application [ 18 , 19 ]. Here, we show that many of the molecules associated with our personal skin and hygiene products had a half-life of 0.5 to 1.9 weeks even though the volunteers regularly showered, swam, or spent time in the ocean. Thus, a single application of some of these products has the potential to alter the microbiome and skin chemistry for extensive periods of time. Our data suggests that although host genetics and diet may play a role, a significant part of the resilience of the microbiome that has been reported [ 10 , 45 ] is due to the resilience of the skin chemistry associated with personal skin and hygiene routines, or perhaps even continuous re-exposure to chemicals from our personal care routines that are found on mattresses, furniture, and other personal objects [ 19 , 27 , 46 ] that are in constant contact. Consistent with this observation is that individuals in tribal regions and remote villages that are infrequently exposed to the types of products used in this study have very different skin microbial communities [ 47 , 48 ] and that the individuals in this study who rarely apply personal care products had a different starting metabolome. We observed that both the microbiome and skin chemistry of these individuals were most significantly affected by these products. This effect by the use of products at T4–T6 on the volunteers that infrequently used them lasted to the end phase of the study even though they went back to infrequent use of personal care products. What was notable and opposite to what the authors originally hypothesized is that the use of the foot powder and antiperspirant increased the diversity of microbes and that some of this diversity continued in the T7–T9 phase when people went back to their normal skin and hygiene routines. It is likely that this is due to the alteration in the nutrient availability such as fatty acids and moisture requirements, or alteration of microbes that control the colonization via secreted small molecules, including antibiotics made by microbes commonly found on the skin [ 49 , 50 ].

We detected specific molecules on the skin that originated from personal care products or from the host. One ingredient that lasts on the skin is propylene glycol, which is commonly used in deodorants and antiperspirants and added in relatively large amounts as a humectant to create a soft and sleek consistency [ 51 ]. As shown, daily use of personal care products is leading to high levels of exposure to these polymers. Such polymers cause contact dermatitis in a subset of the population [ 51 , 52 ]. Our data reveal a lasting accumulation of these compounds on the skin, suggesting that it may be possible to reduce their dose in deodorants or frequency of application and consequently decrease the degree of exposure to such compounds. Formulation design of personal care products may be influenced by performing detailed outcome studies. In addition, longer term impact studies are needed, perhaps in multiple year follow-up studies, to assess if the changes we observed are permanent or if they will recover to the original state.

Some of the host- and microbiome-modified molecules were also detected consistently, such as acylcarnitines, bile acids, and certain steroids. This means that a portion of the molecular composition of a person’s skin is not influenced by the beauty products applied to the skin, perhaps reflecting the level of exercise for acylcarnitines [ 53 , 54 ] or the liver (dominant location where they are made) or gallbladder (where they are stored) function for bile acids. The bile acid levels are not related to sex and do not change in amount during the course of this study. While bile acids are typically associated with the human gut microbiome [ 34 , 55 , 56 , 57 , 58 ], it is unclear what their role is on the skin and how they get there. One hypothesis is that they are present in the sweat that is excreted through the skin, as this is the case for several food-derived molecules such as caffeine or drugs and medications that have been previously reported on the human skin [ 19 ] or that microbes synthesize them de novo [ 55 ]. The only reports we could find on bile acids being associated with the skin describe cholestasis and pruritus diseases. Cholestasis and pruritus in hepatobiliary disease have symptoms of skin bile acid accumulation that are thought to be responsible for severe skin itching [ 59 , 60 ]. However, since bile acids were found in over 50% of the healthy volunteers, their detection on the skin is likely a common phenotype among the general population and not only reflective of disease, consistent with recent reports challenging these molecules as biomarkers of disease [ 59 ]. Other molecules that were detected consistently came from personal care products.

Aside from molecules that are person-specific and those that do not vary, there are others that can be modified via personal care routines. Most striking is how the personal care routines influenced changes in hormones and pheromones in a personalized manner. This suggests that there may be personalized recipes that make it possible to make someone more or less attractive to others via adjustments of hormonal and pheromonal levels through alterations in skin care.

Here, we describe the utilization of an approach that combines metabolomics and microbiome analysis to assess the effect of modifying personal care regime on skin chemistry and microbes. The key findings are as follows: (1) Compounds from beauty products last on the skin for weeks after their first use despite daily showering. (2) Beauty products alter molecular and bacterial diversity as well as the dynamic and structure of molecules and bacteria on the skin. (3) Molecular and bacterial temporal variability is product-, site-, and person-specific, and changes are observed starting the first week of beauty product use. This study provides a framework for future investigations to understand how lifestyle characteristics such as diet, outdoor activities, exercise, and medications shape the molecular and microbial composition of the skin. These factors have been studied far more in their impact on the gut microbiome and chemistry than in the skin. Revealing how such factors can affect skin microbes and their associated metabolites may be essential to define long-term skin health by restoring the appropriate microbes particularly in the context of skin aging [ 61 ] and skin diseases [ 49 ] as has shown to be necessary for amphibian health [ 62 , 63 ], or perhaps even create a precision skin care approach that utilizes the proper care ingredients based on the microbial and chemical signatures that could act as key players in host defense [ 49 , 64 , 65 ].

Subject recruitment and sample collection

Twelve individuals between 25 and 40 years old were recruited to participate in this study, six females and six males. Female volunteer 8 dropped out of the study as she developed a skin irritation during the T1–T3 phase. All volunteers signed a written informed consent in accordance with the sampling procedure approved by the UCSD Institutional Review Board (Approval Number 161730). Volunteers were required to follow specific instructions during 9 weeks. They were asked to bring in samples of their personal care products they used prior to T0 so they could be sampled as well. Following the initial timepoint time 0 and during the first 3 weeks (week 1–week 3), volunteers were asked not to use any beauty products (Fig.  1 b). During the next 3 weeks (week 4–week 6), four selected commercial beauty products provided to all volunteers were applied once a day at specific body part (deodorant for the armpits, soothing foot powder between the toes, sunscreen for the face, and moisturizer for front forearms) (Fig.  1 b, Additional file  3 : Table S2 Ingredient list of beauty products). During the first 6 weeks, volunteers were asked to shower with a head to toe shampoo. During the last 3 weeks (week 7–week 9), all volunteers went back to their normal routine and used the personal care products used before the beginning of the study (Fig.  1 b). Volunteers were asked not to shower the day before sampling. Samples were collected by the same three researchers to ensure consistency in sampling and the area sampled. Researchers examined every subject together and collected metabolomics and microbiome samples from each location together. Samples were collected once a week (from day 0 to day 68—10 timepoints total) for volunteers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, and 12, and on day 0 and day 6 for volunteer 8. For individuals 4, 9, and 10, samples were collected twice a week. Samples collected for 11 volunteers during 10 timepoints: 11 volunteers × 10 timepoints × 4 samples × 4 body sites = 1760. Samples collected from 3 selected volunteers during 9 additional timepoints: 3 volunteers × 9 timepoints × 4 samples × 4 body sites = 432. All samples were collected following the same protocol described in [ 18 ]. Briefly, samples were collected over an area of 2 × 2 cm, using pre-moistened swabs in 50:50 ethanol/water solution for metabolomics analysis or in Tris-EDTA buffer for 16S rRNA sequencing. Four samples were collected from each body part right and left side. The locations sampled were the face—upper cheek bone and lower jaw, armpit—upper and lower area, arm—front of the elbow (antecubitis) and forearm (antebrachium), and feet—in between the first and second toe and third and fourth toe. Including personal care product references, a total of 2275 samples were collected over 9 weeks and were submitted to both metabolomics and microbial inventories.

Metabolite extraction and UPLC-Q-TOF mass spectrometry analysis

Skin swabs were extracted and analyzed using a previously validated workflow described in [ 18 , 19 ]. All samples were extracted in 200 μl of 50:50 ethanol/water solution for 2 h on ice then overnight at − 20 °C. Swab sample extractions were dried down in a centrifugal evaporator then resuspended by vortexing and sonication in a 100 μl 50:50 ethanol/water solution containing two internal standards (fluconazole 1 μM and amitriptyline 1 μM). The ethanol/water extracts were then analyzed using a previously validated UPLC-MS/MS method [ 18 , 19 ]. We used a ThermoScientific UltiMate 3000 UPLC system for liquid chromatography and a Maxis Q-TOF (Quadrupole-Time-of-Flight) mass spectrometer (Bruker Daltonics), controlled by the Otof Control and Hystar software packages (Bruker Daltonics) and equipped with ESI source. UPLC conditions of analysis are 1.7 μm C18 (50 × 2.1 mm) UHPLC Column (Phenomenex), column temperature 40 °C, flow rate 0.5 ml/min, mobile phase A 98% water/2% acetonitrile/0.1% formic acid ( v / v ), mobile phase B 98% acetonitrile/2% water/0.1% formic acid ( v / v ). A linear gradient was used for the chromatographic separation: 0–2 min 0–20% B, 2–8 min 20–99% B, 8–9 min 99–99% B, 9–10 min 0% B. Full-scan MS spectra ( m/z 80–2000) were acquired in a data-dependant positive ion mode. Instrument parameters were set as follows: nebulizer gas (nitrogen) pressure 2 Bar, capillary voltage 4500 V, ion source temperature 180 °C, dry gas flow 9 l/min, and spectra rate acquisition 10 spectra/s. MS/MS fragmentation of 10 most intense selected ions per spectrum was performed using ramped collision induced dissociation energy, ranged from 10 to 50 eV to get diverse fragmentation patterns. MS/MS active exclusion was set after 4 spectra and released after 30 s.

Mass spectrometry data collected from the skin of 12 individuals can be found here MSV000081582.

LC-MS data processing

LC-MS raw data files were converted to mzXML format using Compass Data analysis software (Bruker Daltonics). MS1 features were selected for all LC-MS datasets collected from the skin of 12 individuals and blank samples (total 2275) using the open-source software MZmine [ 66 ]—see Additional file  4 : Table S3 for parameters. Subsequent blank filtering, total ion current, and internal standard normalization were performed (Additional file  5 : Table S4) for representation of relative abundance of molecular features (Fig.  2 , Additional file  1 : Figure S1), principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) (Fig.  4 ). For steroid compounds in Fig.  5 a–d, bile acids (Additional file  1 : Figure S5A-D), and acylcarnitines (Additional file  1 : Figure S5E, F) compounds, crop filtering feature available in MZmine [ 66 ] was used to identify each feature separately in all LC-MS data collected from the skin of 12 individuals (see Additional file  4 : Table S3 for crop filtering parameters and feature finding in Additional file  6 : Table S5).

Heatmap in Fig.  2 was constructed from the bucket table generated from LC-MS1 features (Additional file  7 : Table S6) and associated metadata (Additional file  8 : Table S7) using the Calour command line available here: https://github.com/biocore/calour . Calour parameters were as follows: normalized read per sample 5000 and cluster feature minimum reads 50. Procrustes and Pearson correlation analyses in Additional file  1 : Figures S10 and S11 were performed using the feature table in Additional file  9 : Table S8, normalized using the probabilistic quotient normalization method [ 67 ].

16S rRNA amplicon sequencing

16S rRNA sequencing was performed following the Earth Microbiome Project protocols [ 68 , 69 ], as described before [ 18 ]. Briefly, DNA was extracted using MoBio PowerMag Soil DNA Isolation Kit and the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene was amplified using barcoded primers [ 70 ]. PCR was performed in triplicate for each sample, and V4 paired-end sequencing [ 70 ] was performed using Illumina HiSeq (La Jolla, CA). Raw sequence reads were demultiplexed and quality controlled using the defaults, as provided by QIIME 1.9.1 [ 71 ]. The primary OTU table was generated using Qiita ( https://qiita.ucsd.edu/ ), using UCLUST ( https://academic.oup.com/bioinformatics/article/26/19/2460/230188 ) closed-reference OTU picking method against GreenGenes 13.5 database [ 72 ]. Sequences can be found in EBI under accession number EBI: ERP104625 or in Qiita ( qiita.ucsd.edu ) under Study ID 10370. Resulting OTU tables were then rarefied to 10,000 sequences/sample for downstream analyses (Additional file  10 Table S9). See Additional file  11 : Table S10 for read count per sample and Additional file  1 : Figure S13 representing the samples that fall out with rarefaction at 10,000 threshold. The dataset includes 35 blank swab controls and 699 empty controls. The blank samples can be accessed through Qiita ( qiita.ucsd.edu ) as study ID 10370 and in EBI with accession number EBI: ERP104625. Blank samples can be found under the metadata category “sample_type” with the name “empty control” and “Swabblank.” These samples fell below the rarefaction threshold at 10,000 (Additional file  11 : Table S10).

To rule out the possibility that personal care products themselves contained the microbes that induced the changes in the armpit and foot microbiomes that were observed in this study (Fig.  7 ), we subjected the common personal care products that were used in this study during T4–T6 also to 16S rRNA sequencing. The data revealed that within the limit of detectability of the current experiment, few 16S signatures were detected. One notable exception was the most dominant plant-originated bacteria chloroplast detected in the sunscreen lotion applied on the face (Additional file  1 : Figure S9D), that was also detected on the face of individuals and at a lower level on their arms, sites where stable microbial communities were observed over time (Additional file  1 : Figure S9E, F). This finding is in agreement with our previous data from the 3D cartographical skin maps that revealed the presence of co-localized chloroplast and lotion molecules [ 18 ]. Other low-abundant microbial signatures found in the sunscreen lotion include additional plant-associated bacteria: mitochondria [ 73 ], Bacillaceae [ 74 , 75 ], Planococcaceae [ 76 ], and Ruminococcaceae family [ 77 ], but all these bacteria are not responsible for microbial changes associated to beauty product use, as they were poorly detected in the armpits and feet (Fig.  7 ).

To assess the origin of Cyanobacteria detected in skin samples, each Greengenes [ 72 ] 13_8 97% OTU table (per lane; obtained from Qiita [ 78 ] study 10,370) was filtered to only features with a p__Cyanobacteria phylum. The OTU maps for these tables—which relate each raw sequence to an OTU ID—were then filtered to only those observed p__Cyanobacteria OTU IDs. The filtered OTU map was used to extract the raw sequences into a single file. Separately, the unaligned Greengenes 13_8 99% representative sequences were filtered into two sets, first the set of representatives associated with c__Chloroplast (our interest database), and second the set of sequences associated with p__Cyanobacteria without the c__Chloroplast sequences (our background database). Platypus Conquistador [ 79 ] was then used to determine what reads were observed exclusively in the interest database and not in the background database. Of the 4,926,465 raw sequences associated with a p__Cyanobacteria classification (out of 318,686,615 total sequences), at the 95% sequence identity level with 100% alignment, 4,860,258 sequences exclusively recruit to full-length chloroplast 16S by BLAST [ 80 ] with the bulk recruiting to streptophytes (with Chlorophyta and Stramenopiles to a lesser extent). These sequences do not recruit non-chloroplast Cyanobacteria full length 16S.

Half-life calculation for metabolomics data

In order to estimate the biological half-life of molecules detected in the skin, the first four timepoints of the study (T0, T1, T2, T3) were considered for the calculation to allow the monitoring of personal beauty products used at T0. The IUPAC’s definition of biological half-life as the time required to a substance in a biological system to be reduced to half of its value, assuming an approximately exponential removal [ 81 ] was used. The exponential removal can be described as C ( t )  =  C 0 e − tλ where t represents the time in weeks, C 0 represents the initial concentration of the molecule, C ( t ) represents the concentration of the molecule at time t , and λ is the rate of removal [ http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/9780470140451.ch2/summary ]. The parameter λ was estimated by a mixed linear effects model in order to account for the paired sample structure. The regression model tests the null hypothesis that λ is equal to zero and only the significant ( p value < 0.05) parameters were considered.

Principal coordinate analysis

We performed principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) on both metabolomics and microbiome data. For metabolomics, we used MS1 features (Additional file  5 : Table S4) and calculated Bray–Curtis dissimilarity metric using ClusterApp ( https://github.com/mwang87/q2_metabolomics ).

For microbiome data, we used rarefied OTU table (Additional file 10 : Table S9) and used unweighted UniFrac metric [ 36 ] to calculate beta diversity distance matrix using QIIME2 (https://qiime2.org). Results from both data sources were visualized using Emperor ( https://biocore.github.io/emperor/ ) [ 28 ].

Molecular networking

Molecular networking was generated from LC-MS/MS data collected from skin samples of 11 individuals MSV000081582, using the Global Natural Products Social Molecular Networking platform (GNPS) [ 29 ]. Molecular network parameters for MS/MS data collected from all body parts of 11 individuals during T0–T9 MSV000081582 are accessible here http://gnps.ucsd.edu/ProteoSAFe/status.jsp?task=284fc383e4c44c4db48912f01905f9c5 . Molecular network parameters for MS/MS data collected from armpits T0–T3 MSV000081582 and deodorant used by individual 1 and 3 MSV000081580 can be found here http://gnps.ucsd.edu/ProteoSAFe/status.jsp?task=f5325c3b278a46b29e8860ec57915ad and here http://gnps.ucsd.edu/ProteoSAFe/status.jsp?task=aaa1af68099d4c1a87e9a09f398fe253 , respectively. Molecular networks were exported and visualized in Cytoscape 3.4.0. [ 82 ]. Molecular networking parameters were set as follows: parent mass tolerance 1 Da, MS/MS fragment ion tolerance 0.5 Da, and cosine threshold 0.65 or greater, and only MS/MS spectral pairs with at least 4 matched fragment ions were included. Each MS/MS spectrum was only allowed to connect to its top 10 scoring matches, resulting in a maximum of 10 connections per node. The maximum size of connected components allowed in the network was 600, and the minimum number of spectra required in a cluster was 3. Venn diagrams were generated from Cytoscape data http://gnps.ucsd.edu/ProteoSAFe/status.jsp?task=284fc383e4c44c4db48912f01905f9c5 using Cytoscape [ 82 ] Venn diagram app available here http://apps.cytoscape.org/apps/all .

Shannon molecular and bacterial diversity

The diversity analysis was performed separately for 16S rRNA data and LC-MS data. For each sample in each feature table (LC-MS data and microbiome data), we calculated the value of the Shannon diversity index. For LC-MS data, we used the full MZmine feature table (Additional file  5 : Table S4). For microbiome data, we used the closed-reference BIOM table rarefied to 10,000 sequences/sample. For diversity changes between timepoints, we aggregated Shannon diversity values across groups of individuals (all, females, males) and calculated mean values and standard errors. All successfully processed samples (detected features in LC-MS or successful sequencing with 10,000 or more sequences/sample) were considered.

Beauty products and chemical standards

Samples (10 mg) from personal care products used during T0 and T7–T9 MSV000081580 (Additional file  2 : Table S1) and common beauty products used during T4–T6 MSV000081581 (Additional file  3 : Table S2) were extracted in 1 ml 50:50 ethanol/water. Sample extractions were subjected to the same UPLC-Q-TOF MS method used to analyze skin samples and described above in the section “ Metabolite extraction and UPLC-Q-TOF mass spectrometry analysis .” Authentic chemical standards MSV000081583 including 1-dehydroandrostenedion (5 μM), chenodeoxyglycocholic acid (5 μM), dehydroisoandrosterone sulfate (100 μM), glycocholic acid (5 μM), and taurocholic acid (5 μM) were analyzed using the same mass spectrometry workflow used to run skin and beauty product samples.

Monitoring beauty product ingredients in skin samples

In order to monitor beauty product ingredients used during T4–T6, we selected only molecular features present in each beauty product sample (antiperspirant, facial lotion, body moisturizer, soothing powder) and then filtered the aligned MZmine feature table (Additional file  5 : Table S4) for the specific feature in specific body part samples. After feature filtering, we selected all features that had a higher average intensity on beauty product phase (T4–T6) compared to non-beauty product phase (T1–T3). The selected features were annotated using GNPS dereplication output http://gnps.ucsd.edu/ProteoSAFe/status.jsp?task=69319caf219642a5a6748a3aba8914df , plotted using R package ggplot2 ( https://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/ggplot2/index.html ) and visually inspected for meaningful patterns.

Random forest analysis

Random forest analysis was performed in MetaboAnalyst 3.0 online platform http://www.metaboanalyst.ca/faces/home.xhtml . Using LC-MS1 features found in armpit samples collected on T3 and T6. Random forest parameters were set as follows: top 1000 most abundant features, number of predictors to try for each node 7, estimate of error rate (0.0%).

BugBase analysis

To determine the functional potential of microbial communities within our samples, we used BugBase [ 83 ]. Because we do not have direct access to all of the gene information due to the use of 16S rRNA marker gene sequencing, we can only rely on phylogenetic information inferred from OTUs. BugBase takes advantage of this information to predict microbial phenotypes by associating OTUs with gene content using PICRUSt [ 84 ]. Thus, using BugBase, we can predict such phenotypes as Gram staining, or oxidative stress tolerance at each timepoint or each phase. All statistical analyses in BugBase are performed using non-parametric differentiation tests (Mann–Whitney U ).

Taxonomic plots

Rarefied OTU counts were collapsed according to the OTU’s assigned family and genus name per sample, with a single exception for the class of chloroplasts. Relative abundances of each family-genus group are obtained by dividing by overall reads per sample, i.e., 10,000. Samples are grouped by volunteer, body site, and time/phase. Abundances are aggregated by taking the mean overall samples, and resulting abundances are again normalized to add up to 1. Low-abundant taxa are not listed in the legend and plotted in grayscale. Open-source code is available at https://github.com/sjanssen2/ggmap/blob/master/ggmap/snippets.py

Dissimilarity-based analysis

Pairwise dissimilarity matrices were generated for metabolomics and 16S metagenomics quantification tables, described above, using Bray–Curtis dissimilarity through QIIME 1.9.1 [ 71 ]. Those distance matrices were used to perform Procrustes analysis (QIIME 1.9.1), and Mantel test (scikit-bio version 0.5.1) to measure the correlation between the metabolome and microbiome over time. The metabolomics dissimilarities were used to perform the PERMANOVA test to assess the significance of body part grouping. The PCoA and Procrustes plots were visualized in EMPeror. The dissimilarity matrices were also used to perform distance tests, comparing the distances within and between individuals and distances from time 0 to times 1, 2, and 3 using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests (SciPy version 0.19.1) [ 19 ].

Statistical analysis for molecular and microbial data

Statistical analyses were performed in R and Python (R Core Team 2018). Monotonic relationships between two variables were tested using non-parametric Spearman correlation tests. The p values for correlation significance were subsequently corrected using Benjamini and Hochberg false discovery rate control method. The relationship between two groups was tested using non-parametric Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. The relationship between multiple groups was tested using non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis test. The significance level was set to 5%, unless otherwise mentioned, and all tests were performed as two-sided tests.

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Acknowledgements

We thank all volunteers who were recruited in this study for their participation and Carla Porto for discussions regarding beauty products selected in this study. We further acknowledge Bruker for the support of the shared instrumentation infrastructure that enabled this work.

This work was partially supported by US National Institutes of Health (NIH) Grant. P.C.D. acknowledges funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Programme (Grant 634402). A.B was supported by the National Institute of Justice Award 2015-DN-BX-K047. C.C. was supported by a fellowship of the Belgian American Educational Foundation and the Research Foundation Flanders. L.Z., J.K, and K.Z. acknowledge funding from the US National Institutes of Health under Grant No. AR071731. TLK was supported by Vaadia-BARD Postdoctoral Fellowship Award No. FI-494-13.

Availability of data and materials

The mass spectrometry data have been deposited in the MassIVE database (MSV000081582, MSV000081580 and MSV000081581). Molecular network parameters for MS/MS data collected from all body parts of 11 individuals during T0-T9 MSV000081582 are accessible here http://gnps.ucsd.edu/ProteoSAFe/status.jsp?task=284fc383e4c44c4db48912f01905f9c5 . Molecular network parameters for MS/MS data collected from armpits T0–T3 MSV000081582 and deodorant used by individual 1 and 3 MSV000081580 can be found here http://gnps.ucsd.edu/ProteoSAFe/status.jsp?task=f5325c3b278a46b29e8860ec5791d5ad and here http://gnps.ucsd.edu/ProteoSAFe/status.jsp?task=aaa1af68099d4c1a87e9a09f398fe253 , respectively. OTU tables can be found in Qiita ( qiita.ucsd.edu ) as study ID 10370, and sequences can be found in EBI under accession number EBI: ERP104625.

Author information

Amina Bouslimani and Ricardo da Silva contributed equally to this work.

Authors and Affiliations

Collaborative Mass Spectrometry Innovation Center, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, San Diego, USA

Amina Bouslimani, Ricardo da Silva, Kathleen Dorrestein, Alexey V. Melnik, Tal Luzzatto-Knaan & Pieter C. Dorrestein

Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA

Tomasz Kosciolek, Stefan Janssen, Chris Callewaert, Amnon Amir, Livia S. Zaramela, Ji-Nu Kim, Gregory Humphrey, Tara Schwartz, Karenina Sanders, Caitriona Brennan, Gail Ackermann, Daniel McDonald, Karsten Zengler, Rob Knight & Pieter C. Dorrestein

Department for Pediatric Oncology, Hematology and Clinical Immunology, University Children’s Hospital, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany

Stefan Janssen

Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium

Chris Callewaert

Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92307, USA

Karsten Zengler, Rob Knight & Pieter C. Dorrestein

Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA

Karsten Zengler & Rob Knight

Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA

Department of Pharmacology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA

Pieter C. Dorrestein

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Contributions

AB and PCD contributed to the study and experimental design. AB, KD, and TLK contributed to the metabolite and microbial sample collection. AB contributed to the mass spectrometry data collection. AB, RS, and AVM contributed to the mass spectrometry data analysis. RS contributed to the metabolomics statistical analysis and microbial–molecular correlations. GH, TS, KS, and CB contributed to the 16S rRNA sequencing. AB and GA contributed to the metadata organization. TK, SJ, CC, AA, and DMD contributed to the microbial data analysis and statistics. LZ, JK, and KZ contributed to the additional data analysis. AB, PCD, and RK wrote the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

Corresponding authors

Correspondence to Rob Knight or Pieter C. Dorrestein .

Ethics declarations

Ethics approval and consent to participate.

All participants signed a written informed consent in accordance with the sampling procedure approved by the UCSD Institutional Review Board (Approval Number 161730).

Competing interests

Dorrestein is on the advisory board for SIRENAS, a company that aims to find therapeutics from ocean environments. There is no overlap between this research and the company. The other authors declare that they have no competing interests.

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Additional files

Additional file 1:.

Figure S1. Beauty products ingredients persist on skin of participants. Figure S2. Beauty product application impacts the molecular and bacterial diversity on skin of 11 individuals while the chemical diversity from personal beauty products used by males and females on T0 is similar. Figure S3. Longitudinal impact of ceasing and resuming the use of beauty products on the molecular composition of the skin over time. Figure S4. Molecular networking to highlight MS/MS spectra found in each body part. Figure S5. Longitudinal abundance of bile acids and acylcarnitines in skin samples. Figure S6. Characterization of steroids in armpits samples. Figure S7. Characterization of bile acids in armpit samples. Figure S8. Characterization of Acylcarnitine family members in skin samples. Figure S9. Beauty products applied at one body part might affect other areas of the body, while specific products determine stability versus variability of microflora at each body site. Figure S10. Representation of Gram-positive bacteria over time and the molecular features from the shampoo detected on feet. Figure S11. Procrustes analysis to correlate the skin microbiome and metabolome over time. Figure S12. Correlation between specific molecules and bacteria that change over time in armpits of individual 11. Figure S13. Representation of the number of samples that were removed (gray) and those retained (blue) after rarefaction at 10,000 threshold. (DOCX 1140 kb)

Additional file 2:

Table S1. List of personal (T0 and T7–9) beauty products and their frequency of use. (XLSX 30 kb)

Additional file 3:

Table S2. List of ingredients of common beauty products used during T4–T6. (PDF 207 kb)

Additional file 4:

Table S3. Mzmine feature finding and crop filtering parameters. (XLSX 4 kb)

Additional file 5:

Table S4. Feature table for statistical analysis with blank filtering and total ion current normalization. (CSV 150242 kb)

Additional file 6:

Table S5. Feature table for individual feature abundance in armpits. (XLSX 379 kb)

Additional file 7:

Table S6. Feature table for Calour analysis. (CSV 91651 kb)

Additional file 8:

Table S7. Metadata for Calour analysis. (TXT 129 kb)

Additional file 9:

Table S8. feature table with Probabilistic quotient normalization for molecular–microbial analysis. (ZIP 29557 kb)

Additional file 10:

Table S9. OTU table rarefied to 10,000 sequences per sample. (BIOM 9493 kb)

Additional file 11:

Table S10. 16S rRNA sequencing read counts per sample. (TSV 2949 kb)

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Bouslimani, A., da Silva, R., Kosciolek, T. et al. The impact of skin care products on skin chemistry and microbiome dynamics. BMC Biol 17 , 47 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12915-019-0660-6

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The NIA 10 Calming Serum is designed for dry, inflamed, sensitive, acne-prone skin. Niacinamide (vitamin B3), zinc, and white tea extract work to calm the skin and improve redness and tone over time. I noticed it helped calm my blemishes and made my pores look noticeably smaller. In terms of redness, it's helped slightly with steady use, but the results have not been drastic. If redness is your main concern and your skin is too sensitive for vitamin C serums, this is worth checking out as an alternative. Otherwise, the Glow Maker may be better for overall tone correction.  

Read our full Maelove NIA 10 Calming Serum review . 

The Refresher is a gentle cleanser that helps clean the skin without disrupting its natural moisture barrier. Still, it can be slightly drying if you're used to other simple, gentle cleansers like Cetaphil . The Refresher uses a blend of AHAs (lactic, malic, and tartaric) to remove dead or dull skin cells, and without a moisturizer afterward, it can be drying. Personally, I like that the AHAs help calm my breakouts and remove dull skin, but if you're prone to dryness, you may want to stick with Cetaphil. The internal straw also doesn't reach all the way to the bottom of the bottle, so you may have to dig for the last bit of the face wash.

The Deep Exfoliator is a good, relatively gentle exfoliant. Its ingredients include BHA (salicylic acid) and pulverized clay to draw out impurities and absorb excess sebum, and niacinamide (vitamin B3), glycerin, allantoin, and vitamin E to restore moisture. When used a few times a week, it helps resurface your skin for better tone and texture. It works best when combined with another AHA/BHA like the Night Renewer, but it's nice on its own — especially for sensitive skin types. If you're looking for a stronger exfoliant and don't want to buy both, I recommend buying the Night Renewer . 

Recently, Maelove introduced a gentler retinol, the Stargaze Enhanced Retinol Serum, which contains the dermatologist-recommended concentration (0.25%) for those uninitiated to the ingredient. This formula is also a good choice for someone prone to sensitivity.

While retinol has plenty of benefits in reducing fine lines and evening out skin tone, it's also known to cause dryness and irritation. The Stargaze serum lessens side effects by including a host of hydrating and calming ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. If you want to try retinol but have been worried about potential irritation, this serum is a solid entry point.

Read our full Maelove Stargaze Serum review . 

Maelove CEO and cofounder Jackie Kim wanted to cut prices on grooming products, and cofounders Brad Yim and Rishi Khaitan were looking for ways to apply artificial intelligence techniques to unexpected industries. Skincare — with its glamour and markups — seemed like a natural fit.

As industry outsiders, Kim and company were able to pinpoint the norms that needed challenging. "The first oddity of the skincare industry that we noticed was that it's run like the fashion industry," Kim explained. "Marketers create trends and endless product varieties in an attempt to maximize sales. What you end up with is a ton of undifferentiated products hyped by overzealous marketers, which leads to confusion among shoppers."

The team recruited friends from all disciplines — cancer and brain researchers, chemical engineers, lawyers, and medical doctors — to hone in on the research without the baggage of preconceived notions. In essence, Maelove is one huge — and very successful — science experiment.

First, the team leverages decades of clinical research. "There are abundant and widely accepted published works that show which compounds work well for maintaining skin health. These are the tried-and-true ingredients recommended by every dermatologist and [which] are available in both over-the-counter and prescription strengths (the classic ingredients like retinol, AHA, certain vitamins and peptides, etc)." In short, these are the ingredients that should work.

Then, Maelove uses artificial intelligence to scan millions of self-reported product reviews — what Kim refers to as empirical real-world data — to determine which ingredients correlated with success and which to avoid. These are the ingredients that, according to users, do work. 

Finally, the company finds human volunteers to test the formula to verify its effectiveness. So, instead of building a business around variety for the sake of variety, Maelove focuses on making one line of stellar skincare that can work for all skin types. 

This radically affordable luxury skincare line is the real deal. Maelove makes some of the best and some of the cheapest skincare products that I've found. And while I don't often get to stick to my own skincare routine as a product reviewer, I've surprised myself by preferring to use the cheaper Maelove products over luxury skincare I often test for work because they're simple, gentle, and effective. 

I recommend Maelove to everyone who asks me for recommendations because it works for all skin types and doesn't cost much, but skincare is also a notoriously subjective experience. What works for me may not work for you — even a skincare line built to cater to every skin type. Luckily, Maelove has a 100-day, 100% money-back guarantee, so you're not risking much if you want to try it.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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The Best Bronzing Drops Give Skin a Sun-Kissed Glow

By Deanna Pai

We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.

While powders and creams have their merit, the best bronzing drops make a strong case for switching to a more innovative, lightweight alternative. Rather than deliver saturated color that looks like the makeup it is, “they lend a glow to the skin and help me build a believable tan on a variety of skin tones,” says celebrity makeup artist Suzy Gerstein.

That said, variations on the formula abound. Although bronzing drops set out to accomplish the same goal—leaving skin with a dewy, luminous finish—different iterations can offer unique benefits. For instance, some are infused with hyaluronic acid and squalane to replenish moisture in skin, while others take notes from classic complexion products , coming in an array of bronze, champagne, and pink tones.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Saie Glowy Super Gel , $28
• Best for Face and Body: Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Bronzing Drops , $38
• Best for Oily Skin: Kosas Glow I.V. Vitamin-Infused Illuminating Enhancer , $38
• Best for Dry Skin: Westman Atelier Liquid Super Loaded , $58
• Best for Dull Skin: Pai Skincare The Impossible Glow , $39
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Drops , $35
• Best Pigmented: Armani Beauty Fluid Sheer Glow Enhancer Highlighter , $42

In This Story

What do bronzing drops do, how to use bronzing drops, how do bronzing drops differ from tanning drops, how do i choose the right shade of bronzing drops for my skin tone.

What they do have in common, though, is that they tend to have a more natural, sheer, and transparent look and less coverage than their earlier counterparts, as well as more versatility, according to celebrity makeup artist Nick Barose. You can wear them “directly on bare skin or with tinted moisturizer or a very sheer liquid foundation,” he says.

With that, scroll ahead for the best bronzing drops for every makeup look and coverage preference.

Best Overall: Saie Glowy Super Gel

Glowy Super Gel

• Why We Love It: Saie has the market cornered when it comes to minimalist makeup, so it's little surprise that the Glowy Super Gel lends the look of bare skin, but better. It's built similarly to a brightening serum—with vitamin C, soothing papaya seed oil, and squalane oil among the ingredients—but uses reflective minerals, like mica and titanium dioxide, to deliver very subtle luminosity to skin. (Blink and you’ll miss them.) Wear it mixed into foundation, or alone for a subtle improvement on your own skin.
• Number of Shades: 2
• Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, papaya seed oil, squalane
• Who It’s For: Anyone seeking an even lighter alternative to tinted moisturizer

Best for Face and Body: Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Bronzing Drops

Drunk Elephant

D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops

• Why We Love It: This skin-care-inspired serum sets out to nourish and protect skin while imparting a sheer wash of color on the face, décolletage, and shoulders—making it a favorite of Gerstein’s. “I like that the drops contain niacinamide , which is a great ingredient for smoothing the appearance of the skin,” she says, noting that they layer beautifully beneath makeup. Also inside are peptides , antioxidants, and fatty acid-rich oils, which deliver healthier skin over time in addition to an immediate, gold-tinted finish.
• Number of Shades: 1
• Key Ingredients: Cocoa extract, peptides, white tea extract
• Who It’s For: Everyone seeking a sheer tint from head to toe

Best for Oily Skin: Kosas Glow I.V. Vitamin-Infused Skin Illuminating Enhancer

Glow I.V. Vitamin-Infused Illuminating Enhancer

• Why We Love It: The options are endless with this highlighter in hand. It can be used as a radiance-boosting base beneath foundation, mixed into foundation , or over makeup to highlight cheeks, brows, and the cupid's bow. At the same time, it uses algae extracts and glutathione to brighten and revive skin, as well as a lineup of minerals that reflect and diffuse light—giving skin a lit-from-within look. It’s also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores.
• Number of Shades: 7
• Key Ingredients: Algae extract, squalane, glutathione
• Who It’s For: People who enjoy experimentation, or those with oily or acne-prone skin

Best for Dry Skin: Westman Atelier Liquid Super Loaded

Westman Atelier

Super Loaded All-Over Illuminator Drops

• Why We Love It: While some bronzing drops may appear streaky on dry skin types, that’s not the case here. For that reason, Gerstein reaches for these for her clients who need extra hydration, as “they add moisture and luminosity,” she says. They nourish skin with a combination of tsubaki oil, avocado seed oil, and squalane, and use reflective mica to leave skin with a subtle glow. While there are three shades, they’re intended to be used to create different looks (versus adhering to specific skin tones).
• Number of Shades: 3
• Key Ingredients: Avocado seed oil, tsubaki oil, vitamin C
• Who It’s For: Those prone to dryness

Best for Dull Skin: Pai Skincare The Impossible Glow

the Impossible Glow

PAI SKINCARE

• Why We Love It: Although the Impossible Glow is more of a makeup product—serving as a highlighter rather than a face serum—it's still infused with skin-care mainstays like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C-rich lemon fruit water. Mica gives it a pearlescent sheen and, alongside titanium dioxide and iron oxide (the same minerals used to defend against sun protection), lends intense, buildable color and radiance.
• Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, sea kelp extract, lemon fruit water
• Who It’s For: Those seeking radiance

Best for Sensitive Skin: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops

Glow Recipe

Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops

• Why We Love It: The answer to the brand’s bestselling Dew Drops—the brand’s inaugural makeup-skin-care hybrid—this formulation pairs an array of soothing ingredients, like niacinamide and centella asiatica, with mica to give skin a touch of warmth. The finish is more sunkissed than bronzed, and is sheer enough for even pale skin tones.
• Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, centella asiatica,
• Who It’s For: People with fair skin

Best Pigments: Armani Beauty Fluid Sheer Glow Enhancer Highlighter

Armani Beauty

Fluid Sheer Glow Enhancer

• Why We Love It: What this luminizer lacks in skin-care ingredients, it makes up for in elegance: The versatile formula adds a touch of radiance however you use it, whether to highlight, lend an ethereal glow, or create a healthy flush on the cheeks. Not only is it supremely easy to blend, but the formula also comes in six shades that encompass all preferences, whether you use it to elevate blush or add dimension to bronzer.
• Number of Shades: 6
• Key Ingredients: Glycerin, mica
• Who It’s For: People who want flexibility

Best One-Size-Fits-All: Innbeauty Project Bronze Face Glaze Gel Cream

InnBeauty Project

Bronze Glaze Gel Cream

• Why We Love It: While drops can be finicky in the untrained hand, the gelée texture of this skin enhancer is easy enough for beginners to manage. It's designed with hydration in mind, offering a blend of ceramides, squalane, and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and moisturize skin. It also comes in a champagne shade that’s so sheer that it suits even deep skin tones, and adds a dewy finish that never veers greasy.
• Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, Kakadu plum
• Who It’s For: Everyone

Best Longwear: Chanel Les Beiges Sheer Healthy Glow Highlighting Fluid

Les Beiges Sheer Healthy Glow Highlighting Fluid

• Why We Love It: For a sheen without the sparkle, consider this glow-enhancing liquid, which pulls off the impossible: It offers all-day wear with a weightless feel. The subtle, dewy glow it creates can elevate the look of other complexion products when used as a makeup primer ; otherwise, mix a few drops into foundation for a bit more coverage.
• Key Ingredients: Glycerin, dimethicone
• Who It’s For: People who want their glow to last all day

Best Shade Range: Dior Forever Glow Star Filter

Forever Glow Highlighter Complexion Fluid

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

• Why We Love It: WIth an impressive lineup of shades, this illuminating liquid is one of the few to offer blurring properties. Moreover, it’s easy to blend, actively hydrates skin, and leaves skin with a soft-focus glow that eschews the need for foundation (although you can mix the two for additional coverage). The end result: Skin looks more radiant and well hydrated without a hint of shimmer. One caveat is that its fragrance is a bit potent, which is worth keeping in mind for those with sensitivities.
• Number of Shades: 10
• Key Ingredients: Glycerin, vitamin E, hibiscus extract
• Who It’s For: Anyone desiring a close match to their skin tone

Best Drugstore: L’Oréal True Match Lumi Glotion

L'Oréal

True Match Lumi Glotion

• Why We Love It: It may not look like an A-lister staple, but L’Oréal’s True Match Lumi Glotion is responsible for Kendall Jenner’s sun-kissed skin (as she shared exclusively with Vogue ). It’s also gone viral on TikTok, thanks in part to its lightweight nature and nourishing feel; the formula is infused with glycerin and shea butter, and lends an immediate sheen to skin. The five shades allow for flexibility in how it’s used—darker shades can contour, while lighter shades are ideal for highlighting.
• Number of Shades: 5
• Key Ingredients: Shea butter, glycerin, jojoba esters
• Who It’s For: Those seeking a hydrating option

Bronzing drops lend a warm, radiant finish to skin, but still look natural and subtle compared to their powder or cream counterparts, according to Barose. “They’re ideal for someone who likes their complexion makeup to be more bare and sheer,” he says. The formulas are infused with varying levels of pigment, and some even contain skin-care ingredients like hyaluronic acid (to hydrate), niacinamide (to soothe and brighten), and squalane (to smooth).

Bronzing drops are worth considering if you find “that traditional bronzer formulations go muddy or patchy,” says Gerstein. They’re also particularly helpful for those with fair skin, since they can be blended into virtually nothing—meaning “you can really control the application to achieve your desired effect,” she says.

While they’re called bronzing drops, depending on the exact hue, they can double as highlighter and even lend a gleam to blush in a pinch. Because they’re liquid, Barose cautions against layering them over cream and powder foundations, which can lead to caking. Instead, they’re best paired with similarly lightweight makeup, like tinted moisturizer or liquid foundations.

The beauty of bronzing drops is that they’re particularly forgiving—and versatile. Gerstein recommends thinking of them “as a layer in your skin care, so that you really work the product into the skin, including the neck and décolleté,” she says. You can also blend a few drops with your moisturizer for the most seamless effect.

As part of your overarching makeup routine, meanwhile, Barose recommends applying moisturizer, a base layer of tinted moisturizer or liquid foundation, and then your bronzing drops. “Apply one drop on the forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin, then blend it in with a damp sponge or buffing blush,” he says. “Try mimicking how the sun naturally hits your face.” He also recommends adding a few drops directly to your liquid foundation or tinted moisturizer before applying it to boost its warmth.

Gerstein, for her part, likes to follow her bronzing drops with a cream- or powder-based bronzer. “I find that layering the different finishes provides the most authentic-looking warmth to the skin,” she says.

Bronzing drops add a subtle gleam to skin, but depending on the exact shade, they can also highlight and give skin a rosy look. They’re usually sheer and subtle, designed for a more minimalist effect—and, of course, they’re a makeup product, so they wash off with makeup remover.

Tanning drops, meanwhile, use dihydroxyacetone, or DHA; this reacts with keratin, a protein in the skin, to release pigment in superficial layers of skin. The result is a temporary tan that can last for days. They also typically don’t include light-reflective ingredients, and therefore don’t necessarily look luminous.

It depends on the formula. Many bronzing drops are sheer enough that they complement every skin tone (since your own is visible through it). Meanwhile, some with more pigment typically offer more shades, so you can find what works best with your skin tone. And others yet are designed to function as highlighter and blush, so it’s more a matter of preference.

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Medicube Booster Pro Is the Next Best Thing to In-Office Skin-Care Treatments

By Ariana Yaptangco

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

As hard as I’ve tried, I’m not a skin-care-device girl. I have lots of the latest bells and whistles, but nothing has ever landed a permanent spot in my routine. From LED masks to microcurrent devices , most tools usually end up collecting dust underneath my bathroom sink.

It’s not that skin-care devices don’t work for me. I’ve tried plenty of tools that can deliver results after consistent use. But those are the key words: consistent use . Picking up a device and making it a daily part of my routine has always been the biggest hurdle. It’s great if you have the time (and money) to invest in your devices every night. But the truth is, most people can’t sit around waiting for a device to fully charge or spend 15 to 25 minutes wearing an LED mask. Personally, I don’t have the patience to decipher a manual and watch online tutorials to learn how to use my tool.

Medicube Age-R Booster Pro 6-in-1

A skin-care device has only ever worked for me when it fulfills two criteria: It’s handheld and user-friendly. I want to be able to turn it on and off with ease and use it while I’m watching TV or scrolling through my phone. I don’t want to push too many buttons or remember setting combinations. My nighttime routine is the rare time when I get to decompress and take care of my mind and body. I don’t want to complicate things by piling on another chore.

I’ve written about my love for the Solawave Radiant Renewal Wand , a no-frills, straightforward wand with galvanic current and red LED light therapy that depuffs my face and brightens my complexion after immediate use. However, I’ve recently been introduced to a new device that checks all my boxes and then some: The Medicube Age-R Booster Pro .

What is the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro?

I first heard of the South Korean skin-care brand Medicube last year through model Hailey Bieber. In a Get Ready With Me video posted on TikTok, the Rhode founder shared her love for the first iteration of the Booster device, the Booster-H . Like most trends and products Bieber approves, the device quickly went viral.

TikTok content

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As the number-one-selling skin-care device in South Korea, the Medicube Booster-H claims to increase skin-care-product absorption by 490% to improve texture and brightness. It also promises a noticeable change in your skin’s appearance with just five minutes of daily use.

Given all the hype, the Booster-H sat on my device wish list until this February, when I heard news about a new and improved version: The Age-R Booster Pro . It has all the skin-boosting benefits of the first model but with an additional five settings targeting various skin concerns. In total, the Booster Pro is a six-in-one device, featuring electroporation, microcurrent, EMS, electric needles, LED, and sonic vibration.

How does the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro work?

Booster Mode, as shown in Bieber’s video, features purple light and electroporation (quick high-voltage pulses) to create “temporary fine holes” in the skin to absorb actives. If you’re looking to smooth facial lines and increase volume, Microcurrent Mode uses green light and low-voltage electricity to stimulate the muscles and skin, while Derma Shot Mode utilizes mid-frequency energy currents to increase elasticity and contour. Lastly, Air Shot Mode creates “non-damaging passageways” in the skin with electric needles, to improve pores and target acne. Each setting has a custom vibration pattern to assist with the targeted skin-care concern.

Each mode can be set to different power levels ranging from one to five (one being the lowest, five the strongest). It’s especially great for skin-care-device newbies, who have never felt the sensations of microcurrent or electric needles before, but is also strong enough to impress even the most experienced beauty buffs.

For example, I’ve tried in-office microcurrent treatments and at-home microcurrent devices, and I can vouch that the Age-R Booster Pro is the closest you’ll get to an in-office treatment. The electric pulses and vibrations are strong—as in, you can feel it in your skull—and give you immediate results. Simply apply your favorite moisturizer or serum to you face and press the device to your skin, pulling from the center and out. Just look at the difference in my face after treating it for two minutes with the microcurrent setting. My complexion looks brighter and my skin looks lifted, particularly in the jaw and cheek areas.

The amount of treatment time needed for each mode can vary, but none run longer than 10 minutes. Typically, I would recommend reading the manual to make sure you’re not overdoing it, but this is where the Booster Pro shines: It comes with a self-timer and voice guide telling you what mode you’re selecting, the strength level, and how many minutes have passed since you began treatment. Once you reach the time limit, it notifies you when treatment has been completed and turns off automatically, so you never have to keep track. If you really want to take things a step further, you can download the AGE-R App to get customized treatment, skin care tips, and to track your progress.

My most-used settings are Microcurrent and Derma Shot modes, to help lift and sculpt my jaw and cheeks. My face shape is pretty round—not to mention, I grind my teeth, which has resulted in enlarged masseter muscles in my jaw—so I’m always looking for ways to slim things out. The device is so user-friendly and compact, I can easily use it before a big event like a wedding or while I’m sitting on the couch watching TV. I’m also a big fan of Air Shot Mode, which I use on my cystic acne breakouts to bring down swelling. It’s not a cure-all, but it definitely decreases redness and irritation.

I’ll admit, I haven’t used the Booster Mode much. The few times I did, I didn’t see a huge difference in the absorption of my products. Another small critique: The buttons that control the device are placed where your fingertips grip, which makes it easy to accidentally hit a button and change settings to throw off your treatment. To avoid this, I recommend using a light grip so you don't accidentally press a button while you’re using the device.

So, is the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro worth it?

At $399, the Booster Pro falls around the same price point as most luxury at-home skin care devices . I saw immediate results when I used it, and it’s very easy for anyone to pick up and use—a huge bonus for beginners. With multiple settings and innovative technology (it’s a six-in-one device, after all), it’s definitely worth the investment.

Ariana Yaptangco is the senior beauty editor at Glamour. Follow her @arianayap .

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SkinSAFE: AI Skincare Scanner 4+

Beauty ingredient checker, skinsafe products, inc, designed for ipad.

• 3.3 • 245 Ratings
• Offers In-App Purchases

Screenshots

Description.

Embark on Your Path to Healthier Skin with SkinSAFE Born from a partnership with the Mayo Clinic, SkinSAFE is the only app you need to navigate the complex world of beauty, skincare, household, and topical prescription (Rx) products. Trusted by thousands and backed by the Mayo Clinic's clinical rigor, our platform helps you find products you can use safely and avoid those that might harm your skin. Who Benefits from SkinSAFE? Whether dealing with sensitive skin, skin allergies, or simply striving for a healthier lifestyle without specific harmful ingredients, SkinSAFE is your go-to resource. Enjoy access to our extensive range of Wellness Markers, including SkinSAFE 100 (the gold standard for sensitive skin), Gluten-Free, Fragrance-Free, Soy Free, Preservative Free, TeenSAFE, BabySAFE and more. With 100K+ product evaluations at your fingertips and as the #1 physician-recommended app for conditions like eczema, contact dermatitis, and sensitive skin, SkinSAFE empowers you to make smarter, better product choices effortlessly for healthier skin. Forget the Guesswork Scan, discover, and enjoy products perfectly suited to your specific skin concerns. Customize your experience with the SAFE for Me™ feature, allowing our intelligent algorithm to filter out harmful ingredients, ensuring every recommendation is safe and suitable for your skin. User Reviews: • “This app is a LIFESAVER. It has made shopping for skin products a breeze, especially with my sensitive skin. I no longer have to worry about unexpected reactions!” —Emily R. • “Finally, an app that understands my need for detailed ingredient information! The SAFE for Me™ feature has changed how I shop for beauty products.” —Josh B. • “SkinSAFE has been instrumental in managing my eczema. It’s so much more than just an allergy app; it’s a complete skincare companion that understands my skin.” —Sarah L. Key Features: • Quick Compatibility Check: Use our industrial-grade barcode scanner to verify if a product’s ingredients suit your skin. • Enhanced Wellness Markers: Navigate our scientifically curated markers, tailored for various skin conditions and types. • Comprehensive Product Database: Access an expansive list of safe products across multiple categories: beauty, skincare, makeup, household, and Rx products. • Learn About Ingredients: Understand complex formulations & ingredient sensitivity and confidently manage your skin health. • Personalized Profiles: Manage your family’s skincare needs in one place with profiles for each family member—avoiding the ingredients that make their skin sensitive. • Efficient Shopping Lists: Save time with tailored shopping lists to meet your unique skin health needs. SkinSAFE goes beyond basic product reviews. Our robust technology, powered by clinical data and dermatological expertise, ensures you find products that meet your unique skincare requirements in stores and online. Join the SkinSAFE Movement Our dedicated team, many of whom personally navigate skin sensitivities, eczema, and allergies, are committed to transparency, safety, and community support. We understand your challenges and continually enhance SkinSAFE to meet your evolving needs. Download SkinSAFE Today! Avoid the frustration of uncertain product trials and wasted money on ineffective products. Experience the relief of finding skincare that makes you feel your best. SkinSAFE is free to download and use, but our additional subscription, SkinSAFE Premium, unlocks advanced features for an even more personalized experience. Have Suggestions? Want something added to the app? Email us at [email protected], and we’ll be happy to help! Privacy and Terms: We respect your privacy. For more information, please read our privacy policy at https://www.skinsafeproducts.com/policies#privacy. By using SkinSAFE, you agree to our terms of service, available at https://www.skinsafeproducts.com/policies

Version 2.8.3

Healthy skin is in, but bugs are out! We’ve squashed a few to enhance your experience. Enjoy smoother experience and even safer skincare shopping with our latest update.

Ratings and Reviews

245 Ratings

Better since update - but still needs improvement

I appreciate that the app now tells you which ingredients in a product are unsafe for you instead of just telling you the product is unsafe. I do wish they would do a better job of auditing / combining submissions. I search for facial cleaners for example and it looks like there are 150 results that are safe for me when in reality there may be a third of that. The same products are listed over and over again, some because one is the 3 oz versus the 8 oz and some because an extra word was added in a submission (I.e. hydrating facial cleanser versus facial cleanser) even though it is the same product. Very frustrating to scroll through all the duplicates. Ideally they would allow for custom lists as well. After scrolling through all those duplicates, if I find a product I want to try I would like to add it to a list so I don’t have to search for it again. The only two options currently are use daily or got a reaction. I use favorites for something I’ve used and like whether I am currently using or not.

Developer Response ,

Thank you for taking the time to share your valuable feedback with us. We understand your concerns and appreciate your patience as we continuously strive to improve the SkinSAFE app experience. We acknowledge the issue of product duplicates and understand how this can be frustrating. As you rightly pointed out, some products have multiple variations, such as different sizes or slightly different names. Please keep in mind that sometimes the same product can have multiple formulations. To address this, we are flagging these variations at the product level to make it easier for you to pick the right version. We are actively working on refining our product database to minimize these duplicates and provide a more streamlined search experience. We're excited to share that we're in the process of developing a more advanced search feature. This will prioritize the top 10 products that match your 'Safe for Me' preferences based on safety and availability. We believe this will significantly enhance your product search experience. Regarding your suggestion for custom lists, we completely agree with you. Currently, we offer three types of lists: 'Favorites', 'Use Every Day', and 'I Reacted'. These can be directly tagged to a product from the search results. However, we understand the need for more personalized options. Therefore, we're working on introducing the ability to create custom lists you can name according to your preference. This feature will allow you to save and categorize products more effectively, reducing the need for repeated searches. We value your feedback as it helps us to improve and serve you better. Please continue to share your thoughts and suggestions with us. We're committed to making SkinSAFE the best possible resource for your skincare needs.

Glitchy and Expensive for added features but valuable information

I’ve been using their website for a long time. I have many sensitivities. I decided to try the app. It’s a little frustrating to use the search feature. It often looses your search results when you go to a product and then back to your search results. Often when doing a search it defaults to saved products search. Annoying, my saved products I already know about. So it’s an added step to search skin safe products versus my activity. If I sort results it will go back to unsorted after looking at a product. All this is just a little annoying but I find the website and the app useful and VERY valuable. However I think $9/month or $60 a year is too much for features that used to be free. I will still keep the app and use it but for these reasons I don’t think it deserves 5 stars. I would only consider a one time price for this app. And not over $15. If glitches were fixed and price lowered it would deserve a 5. Again very valuable information.

Thank you for your dedication to SkinSAFE and for your insightful feedback. We apologize for any inconvenience the search feature has caused and want to assure you that we're actively working to enhance its functionality for a smoother, more intuitive experience. We also want to remind you of our Free version of SkinSAFE, which includes the SAFE for Me™ tool, allowing users to identify products that meet their individual needs without any cost. We believe in providing valuable information accessible to everyone and will keep your thoughts in mind as we assess our pricing structure for additional features. We're here to support your needs for safe skincare and appreciate your recognition of the valuable information SkinSAFE provides. Please stay tuned for updates, and we hope to earn that 5-star review from you soon.

Will there be a new update soon?

I was suggested to use this by my dermatologist after doing patch testing that tested for my skin allergies. They helped me upload all results to my account. I noticed that the app hasn’t been updated in 4 years. It’s screen ratio isn’t even set up for recent iPhones as it doesn’t take up the whole screen. I’ve been on the actual website and it looks great there, but you can’t scan barcodes from there. I am really looking forward to an update for this app before it goes out of compatibility for a new iOS. It would also be nice to see on the app itself if a product is actually safe for me or not like it shows on the website. Currently, it shows the ingredients and other safety factors but does not show the icon that specifically says safe or not safe for me. I told my dermatologist that the app has not been updated in 4 years and there’s a chance it will stop being compatible with new phones on a new iOS. I hope that there’s an update before that.

App Privacy

The developer, SkinSAFE Products, Inc , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Used to Track You

The following data may be used to track you across apps and websites owned by other companies:

• Identifiers

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

• Search History
• Diagnostics

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

• SkinSAFE Premium Annual Plan $59.99
• SkinSAFE Premium Monthly Plan $8.99
• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

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TikTok Creators Sue to Block U.S. Law Requiring Sale or Ban

The group, whose legal fees are being paid for by the company, said a ban of the app would violate their First Amendment rights.

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By Sapna Maheshwari

A group of TikTok creators, including a rancher, a skin care entrepreneur and a promoter of biblical literacy, sued the federal government on Tuesday over a new law that would force the app’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, to sell the company or face a ban in the United States. They said it violated their First Amendment rights.

The eight creators “have found their voices, amassed significant audiences, made new friends and encountered new and different ways of thinking — all because of TikTok’s novel way of hosting, curating and disseminating speech,” the complaint says. The potential ban “threatens to deprive them, and the rest of the country, of this distinctive means of expression and communication.”

The suit, filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, which the new law designated as the jurisdiction for challenges, was anticipated as the company’s next move after it filed its own lawsuit against the federal government last week, calling the law unconstitutional. TikTok said it was paying the legal fees for the creators’ lawsuit.

TikTok pursued a similar legal strategy in 2020, when creators successfully challenged a federal ban, as well as last year in Montana, when creators sued the state after it tried to ban the app. Davis Wright Tremaine, the law firm representing the creators, also represented the app’s creators in Montana last year.

TikTok is battling for its future in the United States after President Biden signed the law in April. Concerns had been escalating for years among lawmakers and intelligence officials that the Chinese government could lean on ByteDance to turn over sensitive TikTok user data or use the app to spread propaganda.

TikTok has pushed back on those claims and said it had spent billions of dollars to address security concerns. Many legal experts expect the wrangling over the law to reach the Supreme Court.

In a statement on Tuesday, a Justice Department spokeswoman said: “This legislation addresses critical national security concerns in a manner that is consistent with the First Amendment and other constitutional limitations. We look forward to defending the legislation in court.”

The creators’ suit said a divestment of TikTok from ByteDance was “infeasible, as the company has stated and as the publicly available record confirms.” It argued that the law was therefore a ban that would violate the First Amendment rights of its users.

Similar to TikTok’s suit last week, the complaint asked the court to issue a declaratory judgment saying the law violated the Constitution and to issue an order that would stop Attorney General Merrick B. Garland from enforcing it.

The creators represent a range of people who use the app in the United States, where, TikTok says, it has 170 million monthly users. They include Brian Firebaugh, a first-generation rancher in Texas, and Paul Tran, who runs a skin care brand with his wife. Other plaintiffs include Christopher Townsend, a hip-hop artist who shares biblical quizzes with his followers, and Kiera Spann, an advocate for sexual-assault survivors.

Mr. Firebaugh, who has more than 400,000 TikTok followers, “would need to get a different job and pay for day care instead of raising his son at home” without income from TikTok’s fund for popular creators and sales of ranch products offered through the app, the lawyers wrote. Mr. Townsend, who has 2.5 million followers, “faces losing the platform on which he is able to express his beliefs and share his spirituality and music with the world,” the complaint said.

The creators tried using other social media apps like Instagram “with far less success,” the complaint said. It also said TikTok’s “defining traits stem from the editorial decisions it makes using its proprietary content recommendation technology.” A change in ownership could “fundamentally” change users’ experiences.

The complaint also pointed to statements that lawmakers had made arguing that TikTok had pushed pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel views to its young users. “These arguments focus on censoring TikTok’s content recommendation system,” the complaint said, adding that there was not evidence that TikTok was pushing propaganda to Americans.

Sapna Maheshwari reports on TikTok, technology and emerging media companies. She has been a business reporter for more than a decade. Contact her at [email protected] . More about Sapna Maheshwari