Originally identified as "Bacillus acnes", it was later named "Propionibacterium acnes" for its ability to generate propionic acid. In 2016, "P. acnes" was taxonomically reclassified as a result of biochemical and genomic studies. In terms of both phylogenetic tree structure and DNA G + C content, the cutaneous species was distinguishable from other species that had been previously categorized as "P. acnes". As part of restructuring, the novel genus "Cutibacterium" was created for the cutaneous species, including those formerly identified as "Propionibacterium acnes", "Propionibacterium avidum", and "Propionibacterium granulosum". Characterization of phylotypes of "C. acnes" is an active field of research.