What Are Bacteriophages?
Phyla uses 'phages'—naturally occurring microorganisms that selectively target C. acnes, the bacteria associated with acne. By focusing only on acne-causing bacteria, phages support a balanced skin microbiome.
Explore the System
Phyla Dermatology & Clinical Advisory Board
Dr. Lisa Akintilo, M.D
NYU Langone Health
Cynthia Trickett, MPAS, PA-C
North Dallas Dermatology Associates
Dr. Hilary Baldwin, M.D.
Acne Treatment & Research Center
Dr. Julie Harper, MD
Dermatology and Skin Care Center of Birmingham
Acne and the Skin Microbiome
Acne and the Skin Microbiome
Healthy skin depends on a balanced microbiome—a community of beneficial bacteria that protects the skin barrier. When C. acnes bacteria become dominant, inflammation and breakouts can occur.
Unlike traditional treatments that disrupt bacteria broadly, bacteriophages selectively target C. acnes while leaving beneficial bacteria intact.
Dermatologist-recommended for a reason
Reduction in C. acnes
Reported side effects inclinical trials
Reported healthier-lookingskin by week 4
Patented phage technology
Phyla vs. Traditional Treatments
Traditional Treatments
Many acne treatments eliminate bacteria broadly, which can disrupt the skin barrier and microbiome.
Phage Technology
Bacteriophages are naturally occurring microorganisms that selectively target C. acnes, leaving beneficial bacteria intact.
Phyla’s serum contains billions of bacteriophages that activate on contact with the skin. These phages selectively infect C. acnes, helping reduce acne while preserving beneficial microbes.
Hormonal Acne
Hormonal acne is often linked to fluctuations in hormones, particularly during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. It often appears along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks, and can involve deep, painful cysts.
Phyla’s Approach: By balancing the skin’s microbiome, Phyla helps regulate the inflammatory response triggered by hormonal changes, reducing the severity and frequency of hormonal breakouts.
Cystic Acne
Cystic acne is a severe form characterized by large, painful, pus-filled bumps deep beneath the skin’s surface. It can be difficult to treat and often leaves behind scarring.
Phyla’s Approach: Phyla targets the specific strains of C. acnes that contribute to the intense inflammation associated with cystic acne, helping to calm and reduce these deep breakouts.
Teen Acne
Teen acne is extremely common during puberty, driven by hormonal changes that increase sebum production. It can range from mild to severe and affect the face, chest, and back
Phyla’s Approach: Phyla provides a gentle yet effective solution for teen acne by addressing the underlying bacterial imbalance without harsh chemicals that can irritate young skin.
Nodular Acne
Nodular acne consists of hard, painful bumps beneath the skin’s surface. These nodules are inflamed and can persist for weeks or even months.
Phyla’s Approach: Phyla’s targeted approach to C. acnes helps reduce the inflammation that drives nodular acne, promoting clearer skin.
Blackheads
Blackheads are open comedones, appearing as small, dark spots on the skin’s surface. The dark color is due to oxidized sebum, not dirt.
Phyla’s Approach: While Phyla’s primary focus is on the root cause of inflammation, a balanced microbiome can also help regulate sebum production, minimizing the occurrence of blackheads.
Whiteheads
Whiteheads are closed comedones, small, white or flesh-colored bumps that occur when pores are clogged with sebum and dead skin cells.
Phyla’s Approach: By creating a healthier skin environment, Phyla helps reduce the likelihood of clogged pores, thus minimizing whitehead formation.
Hormonal Acne
Hormonal acne is often linked to fluctuations in hormones, particularly during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. It often appears along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks, and can involve deep, painful cysts.
Phyla’s Approach: By balancing the skin’s microbiome, Phyla helps regulate the inflammatory response triggered by hormonal changes, reducing the severity and frequency of hormonal breakouts.
Cystic Acne
Cystic acne is a severe form characterized by large, painful, pus-filled bumps deep beneath the skin’s surface. It can be difficult to treat and often leaves behind scarring.
Phyla’s Approach: Phyla targets the specific strains of C. acnes that contribute to the intense inflammation associated with cystic acne, helping to calm and reduce these deep breakouts.
RESULTS FROM AN 8-WEEK CLINICAL STUDY
Clinical Research
90 PATIENTS | AGES 12–35 | DOUBLE-BLIND PLACEBO CONTROLLED
90%
Up to 90% reduction in
C. acnes bacteria vs placebo
>70%
saw reduction of lesions as early as 4–8 weeks
100%
saw no side effects
93%
reported healthier-looking skin by 4 weeks
Phage Technology in Skincare
Phyla's patented serum applies bacteriophage technology directly to the skin, offering a microbiome-focused approach to acne care.
