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L’Oréal is sponsoring the Skin Biome Initiative’s first group of participants to jump-start investigations into how the skin microbiome may be related to lifestyle factors and overall skin health. The insights gained could lead to innovative skin health solutions that address the specific needs of individuals, both young and old.

How does it work?

Register with your contact information and mailing address. A limited number of individuals who register and meet eligibility requirements will receive a free microbiome collection kit. Of those who receive a kit, the first 350 participants who complete all the required study steps will receive a personalized skin microbiome report free of charge.

Please note: A limited number of free kits are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, completing all steps does not guarantee selection. A report is not guaranteed. In some cases, a sample may not sequence successfully, and reporting cannot be completed.

Who can participate?

Open to U.S. residents aged 18+
A physical address is required for sample kit delivery. We cannot ship to PO boxes, U.S. territories, or military addresses.
Those who are unable to provide their own consent are not eligible
Access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone is required to use our online platform and stay connected with the study
You can participate regardless of pre-existing conditions; there are no restrictions based on your health status

Key steps to participate

1

Account setup

Create an online account and build a profile by completing the surveys.
2

Fill out a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ)

Approximately 30 mins to complete.
Participants who complete this will receive a personalized evaluation of their food and diet intake.
3

Kit registration

Register your microbiome collection kit online.
4

Sample collection and logging

Collect a skin microbiome sample using the materials and instructions provided in the kit, and log the collection details (date and time) online.
5

Sample return

Ship your sample back using the prepaid shipping box

Optional Steps: Upload a photo to a web-based app

In your account profile, you’ll find a link to a trusted third-party website that will assess your skin via a selfie uploaded to a web-based app.