What Is the Belly Button Microbiome?
The term microbiome refers to the collection of trillions of microbes—bacteria, fungi, and even archaea—that live in and on our bodies. The gut microbiome gets most of the attention, but researchers have discovered that every part of your skin, including your belly button, has its own distinct microbial community.
In 2011, scientists at North Carolina State University launched the Belly Button Biodiversity Project, swabbing the navels of hundreds of volunteers. What they found was astonishing: more than 2,000 species of bacteria, many of which were previously unknown to science.
Why the Belly Button?
So, why does the belly button harbor such microbial variety?
- Stable Environment: Unlike hands or face, the belly button isn’t washed as frequently or exposed to the sun, making it an ideal home for stable bacterial colonies.
- Trapped Debris: Dead skin, sweat, and sebum can accumulate inside, providing food for microbes.
- Low Oxygen: This promotes the growth of anaerobic bacteria, species that thrive without oxygen.
Essentially, your belly button acts like a tiny rainforest, offering different conditions that allow all sorts of microbial life to thrive. Science
What Can We Learn from Belly Button Bacteria?
While this may sound gross to some, the science behind belly button microbiomes is anything but. Studying these bacteria helps scientists understand:
- How microbial communities form and adapt
- Differences in human skin health and hygiene
- Potential uses in personalized medicine or skin treatments
Some species found in the belly button are closely related to extremophiles, bacteria that usually live in deep-sea vents or glaciers. This raises questions about where these microbes come from and how they survive in such different environments.
Should You Clean It Out?
While it's tempting to go on a deep-cleaning spree, moderation is key. Over-cleaning or using harsh chemicals can disturb the skin’s natural microbiome. Gentle washing with soap and water during regular bathing is enough to keep your belly button healthy—while letting its microbial world stay balanced.
Final Thoughts
Your belly button is more than just a body feature—it’s a microscopic world teeming with life. Thanks to modern science, we now know it's part of a vast, complex microbial universe living on us, in us, and with us.
Next time you glance at your navel, remember: it’s not empty—it’s alive.