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Microbiome-friendly certification

Our shea has been awarded the Microbiome-Friendly certification, a globally recognized third-party standard that verifies a product’s compatibility with the skin’s natural microbiome. This certification is based on rigorous, standardized laboratory testing that demonstrates the product leaves the skin microbiome untouched and respects its balance, rather than disrupting the diversity of beneficial microorganisms that naturally protect the skin.

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Helping formulators create the next generation of gentle, science backed, and skin supportive beauty

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Why the Skin Microbiome Matters More Than Ever

Consumers are shifting from anti-aging to longevity and skin health, driving explosive interest in the microbiome. The number of skincare launches making microbiome‑related claims has shown a dramatic 30% CAGR, reflecting a global move toward gentler, barrier‑supportive beauty1

 

A well‑balanced skin microbiome is essential for:

 

  • Protecting the skin barrier

  • Reducing irritation and sensitivity

  • Supporting the immune system and defending against harmful bacteria

  • Maintaining hydration

  • Lowering the risk of acne, eczema, and rosacea 

 

As the beauty industry embraces preventive, health‑focused skincare, microbiome‑friendly formulation is becoming a must—not a nice‑to‑have 2,3,4.

What Does “Microbiome-Friendly” Actually Mean?

A microbiome-friendly product (or ingredient) must:

 

  1. Maintain the balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria
  2. Preserve microbial diversity in the relevant skin region
  3. Avoid impacting organism vitality, meaning it does not inhibit or overstimulate key microbes


These parameters—Balance, Diversity, and Vitality—form the foundation of recognized third party testing methods such as MyMicrobiome standards5.


⭐ Certified Microbiome-Friendly: LIPEX® Shea, LIPEX® SheaLiquid TR™ and LIPEX® SheaSolve™
Model Microbiome dermabalance texture

AAK’s Microbiome Friendly Ingredient Portfolio

 
Microbiome‑friendly certified ingredients under the MyMicrobiome Standard 18.11 (Face & Body):
 

This certification validates:

 

  • Outstanding skin compatibility
  • Preservation of microbiome balance
  • Suitability for sensitive and health‑focused formulations

 

As “longevity” replaces “anti-aging” as the industry’s buzzword, rhse ingredients out as ideal ingredient for formulations that prioritize long-term skin health over quick fixes. Consumers increasingly seek proof‑based claims. Third‑party validation enables brands to speak confidently about microbiome safety when using LIPEX® ingredients.

 

You can find microbiome-friendly certified products by MyMicrobiome Standard 18.11 (Face & Body), as well as more details on the methodology here

 

  1. Mintel GNPD, Products containing microbiome in the product description (2025)

  2. Skin Barrier Function and the Microbiome - Lee & Kim, International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2022)

  3. Functions of the skin microbiota in health and disease – Sanford & Gallo, Seminars in Immunology (2013)

  4. Dermatological Health in the light of skin microbiome evolution – Haykal, Cartier & Dreno – Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2024)

  5. 18.10 face & body microbiome - MyMicrobiome Certification