Skinome’s Johanna Gillbro explains the key findings from the research conducted with Karolinska Institutet, and how it’s created a growing surge for freshly made skincare.
The Swedish skincare brand is focusing on freshly produced products and contain neither preservatives, perfumes nor other unnecessary additives that can disturb the skin. In a new study, the company has teamed up with Karolinska Institutet to explore how different types of skincare impact the skin’s microbiome and overall skin health.
– We initiated this study because the microbiome is key to skin health, and we wanted to scientifically validate the benefits of preservative-free skincare. We compared preservative-free skincare with traditional preservative-containing products to see how they affect the skin’s natural bacteria and health over time, co-founder Johanna Gillbro shares. Participants used one type of product on one side of their face and the other on the opposite side in a split face methodology, allowing us to directly measure differences in the skin’s microbiome and condition.
What are the key findings?
– The results clearly showed that preservative-free skincare is better for the skin. It improved skin texture, reduced fine lines, and minimised redness more effectively than products with preservatives. The skin’s microbiome remained healthier, which could contribute to long-term skin benefits. Certain types of bacteria associated with healthy skin increased when using preservative-free products. This confirms that avoiding preservatives helps support the skin’s natural balance while improving skin quality.
What has the response been since publishing the results?
– We’ve received a lot of positive feedback from both scientists and skincare professionals, who are excited about the microbiome-friendly approach. This is also one of the very few studies on how the skin is affected when using traditional compared to freshly made skincare so it really is a groundbreaking study with interesting results, Gillbro shares, continuing,
– Consumers are also more and more aware of how preservatives and other additives may disrupt the skin’s natural bacteria, and many are looking for skincare that works with their skin rather than against it.
How will these findings influence you as a brand moving forward? And how will you continue to work with Karolinska Institutet?
– The study reinforces what we already believe: freshly made, preservative-free skincare is the best for our skin health. We will continue to develop products that support the skin microbiome and we will use these results to educate consumers on why avoiding preservatives is beneficial. The findings will guide our product innovation and research as we expand.
– Together with Karolinska Institutet, we want to deepen our understanding of how skincare affects the microbiome. We are open to further studies, both with Karolinska Institutet and other research institutions, to explore long-term effects and find even better ways to care for the skin naturally. We made a decision early on when starting Skinome 6 years ago to be a leader in terms of skin microbiome research, and this study is a result of our hard work on focusing on both research and at the same time developing our skincare and our brand.
Skinome’s range of products features around 20 products. Gillbro describes the latest addition, Retinal Concentrate, as an advanced formula designed to deliver real results without irritation and a focus on signs of ageing.
– We’ve used stabilised retinal, 10 times more effective than regular retinol and works faster. The water-free formula keeps the active ingredients fresh and potent until you use them. The mix-to-activate technology means that it should be blended with a moisturizer right before applying. This way you only activate the active ingredients right before you use it, ensuring maximum effectiveness. It’s gentle but powerful, and proven to improve fine lines, texture, and pigmentation without redness or irritation. I’d call it a breakthrough in retinoid skincare, making professional-grade results accessible for everyday use.
For Skinome, what’s next?
– We’re expanding internationally, with a strong focus on the Nordic market. We’re opening a Skinome store at a multi-brand store at Arlanda Airport in mid-March, bringing freshly made skincare to travellers. More scientific studies are in the works to continue pushing skincare innovation, one with a focus on acne-prone skin. And of course, new product launches are coming soon—always microbiome-friendly and science-backed.
And for the industry, what are you looking at?
– We do see some major trends, Gillbro shares.
– Cleaner skincare but still effective. Consumers are looking for products that are made fresh, preservative-free, and effective.
– Retinal is replacing retinol. It delivers better, faster results with less irritation, making it the best over-the-counter option for anti-aging.
– The microbiome revolution is here. Skincare should support, not disrupt, the skin’s natural bacteria. The future is microbiome-friendly formulations.
– Less is more. People are moving away from complicated routines and towards fewer, better products that actually work.
Read the full study here