Skin researcher reveals how idigenous tribes are helping to unlock microbiome secrets

Speaking to reporter Natsaha Spencer on the sidelines of the Cosmetics Design Summit on Microbiome Skin Care Innovation, we found out more about Chris's involvement with the event's programme and how his team's research is helping to shape the evolution of this fast growing category. 

Comparing western skin with indigenous tribes​

Chris and his team wanted to find out how modern day environmental hazards such as pollution, as well as every day products we use on our skin, impact the microbiome, ​and ultimately skin health. 

Researching native American and African tribes, the team was intrigued to discover that skin microbiome in these individuals was quite different to people living western lifestyles. 

Perhaps even more interestingly, the researchers also noted that in general, the skin of individuals living in indigenous tribes was generally more healthy, with a lower incidence of conditions such as dermatitis and acne. 

The research is currently ongoing, but the team are hoping to pursue this line to find out why this is so and whether or not there is a direct link to the state of the skin microbiome.