Dr Namrata Basnet and Dr Arnija Rana, dermatologists from Elara Clinic explain the benefits of skin microbiomes and ways to balance them for better and healthier skin. Dr. Basnet is a dermatologist with an MD from Hubei University of Medicine in China. Dr. Rana holds an MBBS degree from Manipal Pokhara College of Medical Sciences and an MD in Dermatology from Nepal Medical College under KU.
What is the skin microbiome?
The skin microbiome is a mix of small, invisible organisms such as bacteria, fungi and viruses that live on our skin. They are usually found on the outer layer of the skin and in the hair follicles, sweat glands and oil glands. These tiny organisms naturally live all over your skin and help keep it healthy.
What are its uses and importance for skin health?
The skin microbiome acts as a natural shield, protecting against harmful germs and helping the skin stay balanced. It helps keep the skin hydrated, reduces redness and irritation, and even protects against pimples and other skin problems. Essentially, it keeps your skin firm and healthy.
How does the microbiome keep your skin healthy?
The skin’s microbiome is crucial for maintaining health and balance. It blocks harmful germs by supporting beneficial microbes, calms inflammation by supporting the immune system, and maintains a slightly acidic pH level to protect against environmental threats. Some microbes also help retain moisture, keeping the skin soft and hydrated, ensuring overall health and resilience.
What happens when the microbiome is disrupted?
When the microbiome becomes out of balance, also called ‘dysbiosis’, it can cause several problems. Sensitive skin may become red, itchy or easily irritated, and acne and pimples may become more common. In addition, the skin can lose moisture and become rough, resulting in dry or flaky skin. Additionally, skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis can flare up when the microbiome is out of balance.
How can you support a healthy skin microbiome?
To support your skin’s microbiome, use gentle cleansers that don’t sting and avoid harsh soaps or products with excessive alcohol or fragrance, as these can disrupt the balance. It is essential to keep the skin hydrated as it retains moisture and promotes a healthy environment for beneficial microbes.
Ingredients such as prebiotics (inulin, FOS) nourish good bacteria, while probiotics (Lactobacillus, Bifida ferment) restore balance and reduce irritation. Postbiotics, such as lactic acid, repair and hydrate the skin while calming inflammation. Niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier, glycerin provides hydration and ceramides prevent moisture loss and protect against harmful microbes. Squalane balances oil production, and plant ferments such as rice water and green tea increase microbial diversity. Antioxidants such as vitamin C and resveratrol protect against oxidative stress, while beta-glucans soothe and promote balance, ensuring a healthy, resilient skin barrier.
What lifestyle factors influence your skin microbiome?
A diet rich in whole foods and fermented products supports a thriving microbiome, while processed foods and excess sugars can disrupt this. Gentle hygiene practices with microbiome-friendly products help maintain balance, as over-cleaning or using harsh products can remove beneficial bacteria. Chronic stress increases inflammation and disrupts microbial harmony, highlighting the importance of stress management. Environmental factors, such as pollution and climate changes, reduce microbial diversity, while poor sleep disrupts skin repair and microbial balance.
Regular exercise improves circulation and microbial diversity, although excessive sweating without proper cleansing can cause bacterial overgrowth. Medications such as antibiotics and steroids can disrupt the microbiome by eliminating beneficial bacteria.
How can you maintain or restore a healthy skin microbiome?
To keep your microbiome in balance, follow a gentle skincare routine, use mild cleansers and avoid harsh products. Keep your skin hydrated, which keeps the skin’s natural barrier strong, and use products with prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics. Additionally, avoid overuse of exfoliants and acids, as these can strip the skin of good bacteria. So a simple skin care routine often benefits the microbiome.
What are the benefits and risks of microbiome-targeted skin care?
Microbiome-targeted skin care offers many benefits, such as strengthening the skin barrier, improving moisture retention and protecting against environmental damage. These products help reduce inflammation, making them ideal for sensitive or inflamed skin and conditions such as eczema and acne. By supporting the skin’s moisture retention, they improve hydration and help maintain microbial balance, protecting against harmful bacteria and infections. In addition, they can support anti-aging efforts by reducing oxidative stress and improving skin elasticity.
However, there are risks. Abuse or overuse can disrupt the microbiome, leading to imbalances. Some ingredients may cause allergic reactions, irritation or breakouts in specific individuals. Not all products have been scientifically validated and some probiotic-based products may have a short shelf life due to the breakdown of live bacteria. Despite these challenges, microbiome-targeted skin care can be effective if used carefully and with proper research.