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Impaired barrier function: the skin loses its protection
Very sensitive skin is the result of a violation of the barrier function of the skin. In other words, the skin becomes vulnerable to external stimuli. And this means that it cannot perform its main function and protect us from aggressive environmental influences. As a result, the skin becomes drier and more fragile.
What is the role of the microbiome in skin protection?
The results of recent studies of the microbiome – the totality of microorganisms on the surface of human skin – have led to the conclusion that it is involved in the formation of the natural protective barrier of the skin. Why?
- A change in the composition of microorganisms on the skin surface contributes to a change in the barrier function
- There is a relationship between bacterial diversity and skin condition
To soothe sensitive skin and restore the skin’s natural protective barrier, it is necessary to restore the hydro-lipid barrier and regulate the skin microbiome.
But which bacteria are really good for us, and which ones are false friends?
When it comes to healthy skin microbiome, diversity is the key word here. At least a million microorganisms live on every square centimeter of our skin. The more diverse the composition of these microorganisms, the better for the health of your skin.
1 – that’s how many microorganisms live on the surface of human skin … this is about ten times the number of stars in the Milky Way! However, not all of these bacteria are beneficial. Luckily, that’s what beneficial bacteria are for, to keep bad bacteria from spreading on our skin.
What does our skin microbiome need?
The skin has a suitable breeding ground for bacteria. It is warm, moist and rich in nutrients. But sometimes the skin needs help to become a favorable environment for your microbiome.
Every day, our skin is exposed to aggressive external influences that can upset the balance of the microbiome. What is the result? The skin becomes drier and more prone to irritation. However, thanks to microbiome research, it has been found that with increased skin sensitivity, it is important not only to strengthen the protective barrier, but also to regulate the skin microbiome.
Today you can already try Lipikar Baume AP+m triple action lipid replenishing balm with a formula that regulates the skin microbiome. Lipikar Baume AP+m is the result of over eight years of research into the skin microbiome by La Roche Posay Laboratories. Its innovative ingredient complex* AP+M [Aqua Posae + Microrésyl] regulates the skin’s microbiome while keeping beneficial bacteria on the surface and inhibiting the growth of infection-causing Staphylococcus aureus.
Instantly moisturizes and soothes dry skin, thus helping to reduce itching and irritation, visibly prolonging remission
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
All scientific information provided in this material is based on the article by H. Baldwin and co-authors “The Role of Cutaneous Microbiota Harmony in Maintaining a Functional Skin Barrier”, published in 2017.
1 Willis CM, Shaw S, de La Charrière O, et al Sensitive skin: an epidemiological study Br J Dermatol 2001; 145: 258-63.