The skin microbiome up close!

Vitamins & minerals
Eléonore de Maurissens
Reading time: 3 minutes
Het huidmicrobioom van dichtbij!

The skin is not only the largest organ of the human body, but also its first natural barrier. It is home to billions of microorganisms that make up the cutaneous microbiome, protecting us against pathogens. An imbalance of the microbiome weakens the skin and gives rise to ailments.1


The cutaneous microbiome is the collection of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and mites found on our skin. It is unique to everyone, and its composition varies from one area of the body to another.1,2

 

Skin flora, an ally for health

The skin protects against external aggressions, and this is partly thanks to the cutaneous microbiome. It performs various functions, such as1…

  • Combating infections. Certain microbes act as natural antibiotics. They also contribute to maintaining a specific acidity level on the skin, which many germs do not appreciate.
  • Controlling inflammation and contributing to wound healing. The chemical signals sent by the microbiome can activate or deactivate the immune system.
  • Contributing to the proper functioning of the immune system. The microorganisms on the skin can "warn" the immune system if pathogens are present.

A healthy microbiome consists of a great diversity of microorganisms!1

Attacks on the skin microbiome

Curiously enough, the microbiome is most significantly affected during the first years of a child's life (particularly if a baby is born via caesarean section or naturally). Even though skin microorganisms protect us, they are not infallible, and their composition can be influenced by genetic factors, skin damage, poor dietary habits, pollution, tobacco use, etc.1,3,4

Attacks on the microbiome can cause an imbalance (for example, in the case of fragile or damaged skin), known as dysbiosis. This imbalance can be responsible for various skin conditions: eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, poor wound healing, and others.4

 

How can the cutaneous microbiome be protected?

To protect the microbiome, it is important to take good care of the skin.5,6

  • Be careful with sanitizing hand gel, soap, and other cleansing products that strip the skin.
  • Cleanse the skin correctly using gentle cleansing products and remove makeup thoroughly in the evening.
  • Hydrate the skin with a cream adapted to your skin (besides the face, don't forget the neck and the rest of the body). This strengthens the skin barrier and is beneficial in the case of a skin condition.
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle: drink plenty of water (and limit your alcohol intake), avoid tobacco at all costs, eat healthily, and exercise.
  • In the case of a skin condition or another health problem, do not hesitate to contact your doctor so the condition does not worsen.

 


What are your tips for healthy skin? Do you treat it immediately when it is weakened? Share your experience on our Facebook and Instagram!

Scientific references

  1. Byrd A., Belkaid Y. and Segre J. The human skin microbiome. Nat Rev Microbiol 16, 143–155 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1038/nrmicro.2017.157
  2. Mukherjee S., et al (2016). Sebum and hydration levels in specific regions of human face significantly predict the nature and diversity of facial skin microbiome. Scientific reports, 6(1), 1-11.
  3. Thompson K.G., et al. Variability in skin microbiota between smokers, former smokers, and nonsmokers. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2020 Sep;83(3):942-944. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2020.01.042. Epub 2020 Jan 28.
  4. De Pessemier B., et al. Gut-Skin Axis: Current Knowledge of the Interrelationship between Microbial Dysbiosis and Skin Conditions. Microorganisms. 2021 Feb 11;9(2):353. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms9020353.
  5. 10 skin care secrets for healthier-looking skin. American Academy of Dermatology Association
  6. Skin care: 5 tips for healthy skin. Mayo Clinic.

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