Skin microbiome: what is it and why is it needed

According to scientific studies, the number of microbiome cells is slightly larger than our own. What is the role of the microbiome and how does it affect the condition of the skin?

What is the human skin microbiome?

First, let’s look at what the human skin microbiome is.

The microbiome is the variety of unique microorganisms that live on our body. Organisms differ depending on their habitat: in dry areas of the skin – one microbiome, in the oily zone – another, in areas with hair – the third. The richer and more diverse the microbiome, the healthier the skin: the epidermis is more resistant to stress and negative influence factors.

Interestingly, the composition of the ecosystem and the number of microorganisms on the skin varies greatly among representatives of different ethnic groups, age categories, and even professions. In relatives or cohabitants, it becomes similar, due to genetic microbial preferences.

Functions of the skin microbiome

Dermavenerologist Alexander Prokofiev, La Roche-Posay brand expert, tells about the role and functions of the skin microbiome.

Community of microorganisms

• Supports the barrier functions of the skin, strengthens the hydrolipidic mantle and protects the epidermis from aggressive exposure factors: poor ecology, UV radiation, temperature changes.
• Helps skin cells to regenerate, prolongs their life, promotes the natural healing of skin lesions.
• Participates in the process of skin renewal.
• Normalizes water and pH balance (acid-base), protects the skin from dryness and flaking.
• Some microorganisms have antioxidant properties and protect skin cells from the negative effects of free radicals and oxidative stress.

The importance of the role of the microbiome in acne and atopic skin care

An imbalance in the skin’s ecosystem often leads to the development of atopic dermatitis or acne. The severity of the disease depends on the overabundance of staphylococci and the deficiency of streptococci on the surface of the skin. Imbalance leads to a violation of the hydrolipidic mantle and contributes to dehydration, increased sensitivity and irritation of the skin.

Probiotics in cosmetic formulas modulate the overall microbiome and immune status of the skin, strengthen the protective functions of the skin, protect against dehydration and help fight signs of atopy.

The role of Staphylococcus aureus in inflammatory processes in atopy

Bacterial infections of the skin caused by the defeat of the colonization of Staphylococcus aureus (Staphylococcus aureus) affect the state of the epidermis: immunity decreases, changes in tissues occur, an allergic process starts, the first signs of atopy appear.

As a result of clinical studies, a relationship was noted between the severity and nature of the lesion of the epidermis and the degree of popularization of Staphylococcus aureus. In patients with severe atopic dermatitis, specific antibodies to staphylococcal bacterial enterotoxins A, B types were detected.

Alexander Prokofiev: Dermatovenereologist La Roche-Posay

Composition of the normal skin microbiome

About a thousand billion microorganisms live on the surface of human skin, some of which are beneficial, and some are pathogenic. Beneficial micro-organisms deter harmful ones, thereby balancing the skin microbiome.

What bacteria, fungi, viruses and other microorganisms should be present in the normal skin microbiome:

• Resident (permanent) microorganismscapable of rapid self-recovery: non-pathogenic corynebacteria, staphylococci, micrococci.
• Transient (temporary) microorganismswhich, in case of violation of the resident population of organisms, can take their place: pathogenic or opportunistic bacteria, mold fungi, fungi of the genus Candida, Staphylococcus aureus, sarcins.

Can the skin microbiome be damaged?

The main enemies of the skin microbiome are considered to be aggressive environmental factors, bad habits, unbalanced nutrition, stress and improper care – excessive cleansing of the epidermis, the use of aggressive surfactants, acids.

Also, the imbalance of the ecosystem is affected by the use of antibiotics, which suppress the activity of both beneficial and pathogenic organisms. In the case of oily skin prone to acne, retinoids, antibacterial agents in the composition of care, can disrupt the ecosystem.

How to restore the microbiome of the skin of the face and body?

Dermatovenereologist Alexander Prokofiev, La Roche-Posay brand expert, tells about ways to normalize the skin microbiome:

• Specialized care based on active ingredients will help normalize skin function and balance the presence of beneficial and pathogenic organisms.
• A healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition with sufficient intake of proteins, fats and carbohydrates also positively affects the condition of the skin and intestinal microbiome.
• Minimize the consumption of sugar (fast carbohydrates), thereby reducing the processes of glycation (the interaction of sugars with proteins) in the skin.
• Give up bad habits, in particular smoking.
• Get enough sleep and find time for proper rest: the skin microbiome reacts to any changes in the body, especially to stress.

Overview of La Roche-Posay Skin Microbiome Recovery Products

La Roche-Posay products are specially formulated for sensitive skin. Lipid-restoring formulas normalize the balance of microorganisms in atopic skin, strengthen its natural defenses, soothe and restore a sense of comfort. La Roche-Posay products are dermatologically tested, clinically proven, and hypoallergenic.

• Lipikar Baume AP+M lipid-replenishing face and body balm with Aqua Posae Filiformis in the formula also intensively and permanently moisturizes and softens dry skin, reduces itching and irritation.
Regulates the skin microbiome, helping to restore the protective function of the skin.

Lipikar Baume ap+m — Where can one buy:

At the moment, La Roche-Posay products are not available for purchase in the official online store. You can purchase our products in other channels you know – in pharmacies, other authorized partners and online marketplaces

• Correcting cream-gel Effaclar Duo (+) already 12 hours after application has a noticeable calming effect, moisturizes and at the same time mattifies the skin. The Aqua Posae Filiformis + Mannose complex in the formula restores the protective properties of problem skin, regulating its microbiome.
Reduces pronounced imperfections, eliminates oily sheen.

Effaclar Duo(+) — Where can one buy:

At the moment, La Roche-Posay products are not available for purchase in the official online store. You can purchase our products in other channels you know – in pharmacies, other authorized partners and online marketplaces

• Toleriane Sensitive Moisturizing Soothing Cream for sensitive skin with a prebiotic formula regulates the skin microbiome and quickly relieves discomfort and tightness. The cream intensively soothes, moisturizes, prevents transepidermal moisture loss and enhances the natural protective function of the skin.
Moisturizes, soothes, enhances the natural protective function of the skin.

Toleriane sensitive light cream — Where can one buy:

At the moment, La Roche-Posay products are not available for purchase in the official online store. You can purchase our products in other channels you know – in pharmacies, other authorized partners and online marketplaces