Your Skin’s Best-Kept Secret: The Microbiome

Your Skin’s Best-Kept Secret: The Microbiome
Reading: 5 minutes

What’s invisible yet crucial for a glowing complexion? The incredible world living right on your skin. At any given moment, thousands of microorganisms are hard at work — too small to see, but absolutely essential for skin’s health and vitality.

If you could look at them under a microscope, you’d discover an ecosystem made up of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms (that’s a good thing, we promise!). Together, they create what’s called your skin microbiome.

To learn more about what it is, what it does, and how you can take care of it, we sat down with Albert Navasa, ISDIN Corporate Medical Affairs Specialist, to get his expert insights.

What is the skin microbiome?

Asking Albert the same question, he starts off with a straightforward definition: “The skin microbiome is the collection of microorganisms that live on the skin and other parts of the human body.” But there’s so much more to it.

Your body’s microbiome is a living, breathing ecosystem. This microscopic world doesn’t just protect your skin — it also regulates key functions like your immune system and overall health.

What is the skin microbiome?

Albert describes it as a unique universe essential to your well-being, and he shared some interesting facts to help emphasize its importance. Such as:

  • It forms at birth: From the moment you’re born, your microbiome begins to develop. Early contact with your mother provides the transfer of essential microorganisms.
  • It’s as unique as your fingerprint: Everyone’s microbiome is different, shaped by genetics, environment, diet, and lifestyle.
  • It’s heavier than you might think: Your body’s microbiome can weigh up to 4.4 pounds — about the same as some vital organs like your brain.

However, your microbiome isn’t just a group of random microbes — it’s a network. When it comes to your skin, each microorganism plays its role, whether strengthening your barrier function or alerting your immune system to potential threats.

“Understanding your microbiome opens up a whole new perspective on skincare. It’s a reminder of the incredible connection between your body and this microscopic world,” continues Albert.

“Understanding your microbiome opens up a whole new perspective on skincare. It’s a reminder of the incredible connection between your body and this microscopic world.”

What does your skin’s microbiome do?

What does your skin’s microbiome do?

While your body has multiple microbiomes (gut, mouth, and so on), the skin microbiome has its own essential tasks. Albert highlights a few key roles:

1. Protects your skin like a shield

Your microbiome acts as a natural barrier, defending your skin against harmful bacteria, allergens, and pollutants. Think of it as an invisible security team that helps stop intruders before they can cause damage.

2. Regulates your immune system

It’s not just about physical protection. “Your skin’s microbiome trains your immune system to tell the difference between helpful and harmful microorganisms,” shares Albert. In other words, it’s also the coach leading your defensive team.

3. Helps skin to heal and renew itself

When your skin gets damaged (say a small cut or scrape) beneficial microorganisms jump into action. They reduce inflammation, support healing, and prompt cell regeneration, helping to keep skin ready for anything.

4. Keeps things balanced

Your microbiome helps regulate your skin’s natural pH, keeping it slightly acidic (around 4.5 to 5.5). This environment is key to maintaining a strong skin barrier, preventing moisture loss, and reducing sensitivity to irritants.

What are the characteristics of a healthy microbiome?

What are the characteristics of a healthy microbiome?

A healthy microbiome keeps your skin strong, hydrated, and resilient. Here are some signs that things are on track:

  • A strong skin barrier: This brick-and-mortar-like structure is your skin’s first line of defense against the outside world. When it’s happy, balanced, and working together with a strong microbiome, it helps your skin hold onto moisture and keep irritants out.
  • Helpful microorganisms abound: A healthy microbiome includes plenty of good bacteria. They help keep harmful bacteria under control by producing natural defense responses.
  • The right pH: When your skin’s pH stays slightly acidic, it creates the ideal environment for protective functions to do their best work.

Albert puts it simply, “A balanced microbiome is like a self-sufficient ecosystem. If you take care of it, it takes care of you.”

What does skin with a healthy microbiome look like?

When your microbiome is in good shape, it shows. Here’s what to look for:

  • Your skin feels soft, even, and smooth, without overly rough or dry patches.
  • You typically enjoy skin with a healthy glow, free of dull or red areas.
  • Your skin responds well to trusted skincare products, with few instances of irritation or sensitivity.

What happens if there’s an imbalance in my microbiome?

What happens if there’s an imbalance in my microbiome?

An unbalanced microbiome, or dysbiosis, happens when daily factors like stress, diet, or external irritants disrupt the levels of helpful bacteria. Albert explains that this can lead to:

  • A weakened barrier, making your skin prone to dryness, flaking, or even cracks.
  • Inflammation, which can cause redness, swelling, or persistent itchiness.
  • An overgrowth of harmful microorganisms, contributing to issues like acne or infections.
  • Increased sensitivity, often triggered by stress or unhealthy habits.

Expert tip: Although our experts have reviewed this article, your dermatologist knows your skin best. Head in for a visit if you feel like something’s off.

How to take care of your microbiome

How to take care of your skin - cream on hand

Albert compares taking care of your microbiome to tending a garden. With the right attention and tools, your skin’s natural beauty can flourish. He explains, “Many people don’t realize that their daily routines can either support or harm their microbiome.”

So, what’s his advice? Here are five expert tips.

Do your best to:

  • Use gentle cleansers: Choose products that protect your skin’s natural oils and pH. Cleansing oils are a great place to start.
  • Hydrate regularly: Moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or urea create the perfect environment for your microbiome to thrive.
  • Incorporate probiotics and prebiotics: Consider adding more of these to your diet via fresh foods or supplements to nourish beneficial bacteria and support balance.

If possible, avoid:

  • Over-cleansing: Washing your face too often or with hot water can strip away protective oils. Stick to twice daily with lukewarm water.
  • Exfoliating too often: Chemical exfoliants are effective, but using them too much can weaken your skin’s barrier and harm your microbiome. Follow your product’s instructions and listen to your skin when it calls for a break.

“A balanced microbiome is like a self-sufficient ecosystem. If you take care of it, it takes care of you.”

Embrace your skin’s natural rhythm

ISDIN model skin

The microbiome isn’t just a trending topic — it’s a key part of the future of skincare. Research shows that this microscopic ecosystem is essential to fight back against environmental stress and age well overall.

Your microbiome also mirrors the care and attention you give yourself. “Caring for your microbiome is caring for your skin from within,” shares Albert. By making thoughtful choices about your skincare routine, diet, and lifestyle, you nurture this invisible connection, helping your skin stay strong, radiant, and — most importantly — healthy.


References:

  • Lee HJ, Kim M. Skin Barrier Function and the Microbiome. Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Oct 28;23(21):13071. doi: 10.3390/ijms232113071. PMID: 36361857; PMCID: PMC9654002.
  • Commensal Staphylococcus epidermidis contributes to skin barrier homeostasis by generating protective ceramides. Zheng Y, Hunt RL, Villaruz AE, Fisher EL, Liu R, Liu Q, Cheung GYC, Li M, Otto M. Cell Host Microbe. 2022 Feb 1:S1931-3128(22)00040-3. doi: 10.1016/j.chom.2022.01.004. Online ahead of print. PMID: 35123653.
  • Howard, B., Bascom, C. C., Hu, P., Binder, R. L., Fadayel, G., Huggins, T. G., … & Isfort, R. J. (2022). Aging-associated changes in the adult human skin microbiome and the host factors that affect skin microbiome composition. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 142(7), 1934-1946.e21. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jid.2021.11.029

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Article written and reviewed by:

Editorial Team

Our namesake embodies the spirit of embracing life and all its wonder. As wellness journalists, we explore topics that invigorate the senses and keep curiosity alive. We believe that glowing skin is the result of a healthy body and mind. Weaving beauty with science, we aim to inspire you to live young at every age.

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