Ever wondered what’s living on your skin? The Australian Human Microbiome Biobank (AHMB) is collecting skin microbiome samples from volunteers to help researchers better understand how the bacteria on our skin influence our health and wellbeing.
If you’ve received a skin swab kit, here’s how to collect your sample safely and correctly—it only takes a couple of minutes!
Why your sample matters
Your contribution helps researchers uncover how the skin microbiome varies across individuals and regions, and how it may relate to conditions like eczema, acne and wound healing. Every sample brings us one step closer to understanding how our microbes protect and shape our health.
Thank you for being part of this important research!
What’s in Your Collection Kit?
Here’s what you’ll find inside your kit:
- 1 x sterile swab and 1 x tube with a small amount of liquid (sealed in a packet)
- 1 x QR code sticker
Be sure everything is there before getting started!
How to Collect Your Sample
Step 1: Get Set Up
Open the pouch and find the tube with the liquid inside. Set it on a clean surface—you’ll come back to it soon.
Step 2: Open the Swab
Carefully remove the swab by the handle. Be sure not to touch the soft tip or any part below the coloured line—this keeps your sample clean and usable.
If the tip touches anything (including your hands), or if you drop it, that’s okay! Just let us know and we can grab you a new one!
Step 3: Collect the Sample
Unscrew the cap and dip the end of the swab into the liquid to moisten. Firmly rub the swab back and forth over a 5 cm × 5 cm area for 3 minutes. Make sure to go ind different directions and turn the swab as you go.
Step 4: Secure the Swab in the Tube
Insert the swab into the tube and snap the stick at the marked break point so the tip stays inside. Discard the handle.
Step 5: Seal It Up
Screw the cap on tightly to prevent leaks. Throw away the swab handle and wrapper, then place the sealed tube into the small clear bag with the QR code. Place into the AHMB tote bag and hand it back to the staff member helping you.
Step 6: Finish with the Questionnaires
Check your email and complete the two quick questionnaires we sent you. These give us important background information that helps make your sample even more valuable for research.
A Few Helpful Tips
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Avoid applying lotions, soaps, or perfumes to the sampling area before collection.
- Avoid showering eight hours beforehand.
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Wash your hands before starting.
Questions? We’re Here to Help
If you’re feeling unsure or just want to double-check something, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can email our team anytime at admin@ahmb.com.au. Thanks again for being part of this exciting research. Every sample brings us one step closer to unlocking the secrets of the human microbiome—and we couldn’t do it without you!
If you haven’t already, and you’re interested in becoming a donor, please visit Get Involved to register.
Stay tuned for updates as we expand the AHMB by following our LinkedIn, X or Bluesky.
