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
Linked to fluctuations in hormones particularly during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.
Phyla’s Approach: Helps regulate the inflammatory response triggered by hormonal changes.
Cystic Acne
A more severe form of acne caused characterized by large, painful, pus-filled, bumps deep beneath the skin.
Phyla’s Approach: Targets the bacteria associated with deep, inflamed breakouts to help calm skin.
Teen Acne
Very common during puberty and is driven by hormonal changes that increase sebum production.
Phyla’s Approach: A gentle, microbiome-friendly approach that avoids irritating treatments that are harsh on young skin.
Nodular Acne
Consists of hard, painful bumps beneath the skins surface. Often inflamed and can persist for weeks or months.
Phyla’s Approach: Targets the bacteria associated with deep, inflamed breakouts to help calm skin.
Blackheads
Open comedones appearing as small, dark spots on the skin’s surface. The color is from oxidized sebum, not dirt.
Phyla’s Approach: A balanced microbiome supports healthier pores and helps reduce clogging.
Whiteheads
Closed comedones that occur when pores are clogged with sebum or dead skin cells.
Phyla’s Approach: A balanced microbiome supports healthier pores and helps reduce clogging.
Hormonal Acne
Linked to fluctuations in hormones particularly during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.
Phyla’s Approach:Helps regulate the inflammatory response triggered by hormonal changes.
Cystic Acne
A more severe form of acne caused characterized by large, painful, pus-filled, bumps deep beneath the skin.
Phyla’s Approach: Targets the bacteria associated with deep, inflamed breakouts to help calm skin.
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.
