News Release

New research provides insights into the skin microbiome

Amway Corporation and Microbiome Insights, Inc. identify two Corynebacteria species as potential targets to improve skin appearance

Peer-Reviewed Publication

Spectrum Science

ADA, MICH. (Nov. 30, 2017) - Today, Amway Corporation, in collaboration with Microbiome Insights, Inc. presented results from two independent epidemiology studies at Happi's Anti-Aging Conference & Tabletop Exhibition, an annual conference that attracts anti-aging industry experts and suppliers. The research team comprised of scientists from both companies has identified two Corynebacteria species as potential targets to improve skin appearance.

The first study enrolled 495 normal healthy men and women ranging in age from 9 to 78. The researchers combined their talents in cosmetic and microbiome science and discovered two Corynebacteria species - one associated with younger people and the other with older people. The 'old skin' Corynebacteria species tended to displace the other during middle age (ages 40-49). Interestingly, the two bacteria were found to be co-exclusive meaning they did not exist simultaneously at the same skin site.

The researchers then conducted a follow-up study in 154 healthy men and women to see if they could repeat the results of the first study. The second study yielded the same results and confirmed the original observations. Furthermore, in addition to being associated with chronological age, the 'old skin' Cornyebacterium was found to be associated with skin redness, wrinkles and age spots suggesting it could be a target for treatment intervention.

The two companies are working together to better understand the importance of this novel finding. These new insights not only contribute to the scientific community's general understanding of the microbiome, but will also have implications for consumer products that benefit human health and wellness.

"We are following up on this new, exciting insight into skin aging and the microbiome. While much more work needs to be done, there may be an opportunity to help improve skin appearance in otherwise normal, healthy people based on skin microbiome science" said Dr. Greg Hillebrand, Senior Principal Scientist at Amway Corporation.

Malcolm Kendall, CEO and Co-Founder, Microbiome Insights, Inc. said, "Our partnership with Amway has been a perfect example of what a true partnership should be. Together, we are leveraging our deep experience in the microbiome to deliver new innovations more quickly and efficiently in skin and cosmetic science. Our team is committed to working with Amway to unravel the role of the microbiome in skin-aging and applying the findings to developing consumer products that benefit human health and wellness."

Full data from Amway's Microbiome Initiative research are expected to be published in 2018.

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About Amway

Amway is an $8.8 billion direct selling business based in Ada, Michigan, USA. Top-selling brands for Amway are Nutrilite™ vitamin, mineral and dietary supplements, Artistry™ skincare and color cosmetics, eSpring™ water treatment systems and XS™ energy drinks - all sold exclusively by Amway Business Owners. Global sales in 2016 made Amway the No. 1 direct selling business in the world, according to the 2017 Direct Selling News Global 100. The company's annual sales figure includes revenue from direct selling operations and other business holdings. For company news, visit globalnews.amway.com.

About Microbiome Insights, Inc.

Microbiome Insights Inc. is a global leader in microbiome testing. Microbiome Insights, Inc. enables researchers and clinicians to easily and effectively include microbiome analysis in their studies, across a range of human, animal, agricultural and environmental applications. The company experts and testing methods combine to provide fast, dependable, cost-effective results for clients including analyses on microbial profiles of disease, treatment responses and environmental changes.

Learn more: microbiomeinsights.com | @MB_Insights


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