Skin microbiome

Scientists have calculated that each of us carries on and in ourselves 1,5 kilograms of microorganisms. How does the skin microbiome affect our health and mood?

What is the skin microbiome

The microbiome is the collection of microorganisms (fungi, mites, bacteria) that live on the surface of the skin. Diversity is very important for the microbiome.

Each person’s microbiome is unique. It depends on gender, age, environment, ethnicity, nutrition, profession, body characteristics, as well as past infections, the quality of the clothes we wear, and skin care or lack of it. But whatever it is, no matter how it changes during life, its functions remain unchanged:

  • protection of the skin from the harmful effects of pathogenic microbes, dust, pollution, even to some extent from UV radiation;

  • maintaining the level of skin acidity;

  • maintaining the integrity of the hydrolipid mantle;

  • antioxidant activity;

  • participation in the immune system of the skin.

Composition of the skin microbiome

All microorganisms living on the skin can be divided into two large groups – resident and tourist microorganisms. Some live on the skin all the time, others get on it from the external environment and stay on it from several hours to several days.

Resident microbes – this is, first of all:

  • non-pathogenic corynebacteria;

  • staphylococcus;

  • micrococci.

Among tourist microbes are:

  • gram-positive sarcins;

  • Staphylococcus aureus;

  • fungi of the genus Candida;

  • fungi.

Microorganisms living on different parts of the skin differ from each other: dry zones prefer some microorganisms, greasy and wet – others. The microbiome also depends on whether there is hair on the skin.

The more diverse the microbiome, the healthier the skin.

Can the skin microbiome be damaged?

Researchers consider civilization to be the biggest enemy of the skin microbiome: the Indians of the Venezuelan Amazon, to which she has not yet reached, microbes on the skin are much more diverse than those of residents of large cities. The microbiome can be disturbed by:

  • contaminated air;

  • smoking;

  • excessive skin care – excessive use of scrubs and peels, frequent use of antibacterial gels and wipes;

  • taking antibiotics;

  • a large amount of sugar in the diet;

  • stress;

  • frequent use of scented candles.

Why is it bad? The number of beneficial bacteria is reduced. And the colony of opportunistic pathogens, on the contrary, is growing, which can lead to problems. The skin loses its ability to resist stress, infections and adverse environmental conditions. According to expert of the La Roche-Posay brand, dermatovenereologist Alexander Prokofiev, due to disruption of the ecosystem, “the skin becomes dry and sensitive, prone to redness.”

How to restore the skin microbiome

A healthy lifestyle will help.

  • Balanced diet, that is, a sufficient amount of protein, “good” fats and carbohydrates: fruits, vegetables, cereals.

  • Limiting the consumption of fast carbohydrates. Nothing disrupts the skin microbiome quite like overindulgence in sweets.

  • Outdoor physical activity gardening, walking in the woods, jogging in the park. Natural tourist microbes can change the skin microbiome for the better.

  • Life without stress. Of course, this is from the realm of fantasy, but it is in our power to learn how to perceive unpleasant situations philosophically.

  • Healthy sleep. The microbiota is sensitive to any changes in our lifestyle.

  • Delicate skin care. “For cleansing, choose gentle products that do not destroy the protective layer of the skin: for microorganisms living on the surface, habitat is important,” says Alexander Prokofiev. “Use beauty products containing prebiotics and probiotics.”

Features of cosmetics with probiotics and prebiotics

Probiotics are living microorganisms or substances of microbial origin (for example, fragments of DNA and cell walls of bacteria) that affect the state of the microbiome, strengthen the immune system and the protective functions of the skin. Live bacteria are not used in cosmetics – they are found only in food products (yogurt, kefir, etc.). In the beauty industry, probiotic derivatives are involved.

Prebiotics – substances that create a favorable nutrient medium for the reproduction of microflora. Both probiotics and prebiotics correct the microbiome of the skin so that it looks beautiful, hydrated and radiant.

Cream with probiotic derivatives is useful for everyone.

Funds overview

Who is suitable for cosmetics with pro- and prebiotics in the composition?
The answer is everyone! Especially for those who:

  • lives in big cities with bad ecology;

  • smokes;

  • often under stress.

Healthy-Food suggests looking into these products.

Lipid-replenishing emollient bath and shower oil Lipikar AP + Oil, La Roche-Posay

Contains the Aqua Posae Filiformis component, which helps restore the microbiome, cares for dry and atopic skin, reduces the feeling of discomfort, soothes, strengthens the protective barrier.

Lipid-replenishing balm for face and body Lipikar Baume AP + M, La Roche-Posay

Formulated with Aqua Posae Filiformis, it instantly hydrates and soothes dry skin, helping to reduce itching and extending the time between flare-ups of excessive dryness.

Advanced Génifique Youth Activator, Lancôme

This serum-textured facial treatment contains high concentrations of probiotic derivatives. Gives the skin freshness and radiance, evens out tone, reduces wrinkles.

Hydrogel mask Advanced Génifique Hydrogel Melting Mask, Lancôme

Contains probiotic extract, gives a healthy glow, energizes the skin and helps to look younger.

Day corrective care double action Normaderm Phytosolution, Vichy

Contains a derivative of the probiotic Bifidus, strengthens the barrier properties of the epidermis and protects against harmful environmental factors, suitable for sensitive skin.

Cleansing gel for washing Normaderm Phytosolution, Vichy

The formula contains a derivative of the probiotic Bifidus. The gel gently cleanses the skin, fights imperfections, controls oily sheen, and protects against external aggressive influences.

Softening melting body milk with bifido complex and mango butter, Garnier

Moisturizes dry body skin, making it soft and supple.

Cosmetic water Life Plankton Essence, Biotherm

Contains thermal plankton extract to even out skin tone, improve firmness & radiance.

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