When I was pregnant with my son, I developed perioral dermatitis and couldn’t find anything that truly helped. Out of frustration, I turned to research papers and using my Microbiology background, began collating all the information about different aspects of skin structure, barrier function, and microbiome. What I learned not only helped me, but became the foundation of my blog, Beauty and the Biome, where for the past eight years I’ve shared science-backed advice with people who felt just as lost as I once did.

That journey led me to create my first skincare company, the first line formulated at the correct pH of human skin. But I wanted to go further. With Citation, I’ve taken all of that knowledge—microbiology, immunology, the skin’s immune system—and paired it with the latest biotech ingredients and research. The result is a line that doesn’t just sit on the surface, but works deep at a cellular immune level to support skin where it matters most.

I’m Kate Bancroft, a microbiologist, cosmetic formulator, and founder of Citation Skincare. My work has always been driven by a single purpose: helping people understand their skin and restoring its health through evidence-based science.

From Microbiology to Skin Health

I began my career in microbiology, working first in a pathogen laboratory and later in food microbiology for one of the largest primary producers in the Southern Hemisphere. As a laboratory manager, I trained teams and developed a skill for translating complex science into clear, actionable knowledge. Alongside my background in microbiology, my studies in chemistry gave me the foundation to become a cosmetic formulator — a role in which I now design and develop every product myself.

Skin, Gut, and the Microbiome

Over the past decade, I’ve used my expertise to support people suffering from microbiome disruption, eczema, dermatitis, and other inflammatory skin conditions. My philosophy is rooted in the understanding that skin health cannot be separated from gut health. The microbiome — both cutaneous and intestinal — is central to immunity, inflammation, and long-term skin resilience. This connection informs everything I create, from blog posts on Beauty and the Biome to the advanced biotech formulations behind Citation.

A Philosophy of Simplicity

Skincare does not need to be complicated, but it does need to be precise. I believe in formulas that respect the skin’s natural ecology, support immune balance, and deliver clinically relevant results without unnecessary complexity. By bridging gut health, microbiome science, and cosmetic chemistry, I help people not only improve their skin, but understand it.

My Mission

As a mother of two and a lifelong scientist, my work is driven by a desire to create solutions that genuinely make a difference. Beyond my published writing and core formulations, I specialize in creating bespoke skincare tailored to each individual’s unique skin physiology, concerns, and lifestyle. By combining evidence-based research with advanced biotech actives, I design products that go beyond one-size-fits-all solutions — offering truly personalized care that restores health, confidence, and lasting wellbeing.