How To: Care For Your Skin's Microbiome
A healthy, happy and balanced microbiome is essential for hydrated and glowing skin. But what is the microbiome, and how do we support it with the products we use and daily rituals we engage in? Below, find everything you need to know about the skin's microbiome.
WHAT IS THE SKIN'S MICROBIOME?
The skin is the largest organ in the human body and is populated with skin flora – an ecosystem of bacterial colonies that are collectively known as the skin's microbiome. This bacteria feeds on nutrients found in the skin's topmost layer, the epidermis. While 'bacteria' and 'skin' in the same sentence can conjure an ick response, rest assured that the skin's microbiome is essential in how the skin looks, feels and functions.
IS THE SKIN'S MICROBIOME THE SAME AS THE SKIN'S BARRIER?
Well, not exactly. The SKIN'S BARRIER FUNCTION refers to the natural lipid (oil) layer that protects the skin by keeping bad stuff (like infection and pollution) out and good stuff (like moisture and hydration) in. However, a healthy skin barrier cannot exist without a healthy skin microbiome, so they are both dependent on each other. Like your fingerprint, your microbiome is unique to you. The bacterial colonies within it can communicate with one another, helping to bolster the body's immune responses and support the barrier function.
WHY IS THE SKIN'S MICROBIOME SO IMPORTANT?
The microbiome contains a delicate network of bacteria, which must always exist in harmony. When the skin's microbiome is out of balance, the barrier function may become compromised. This can lead to dry, flaky, red, itchy, irritated, inflamed skin.
HOW DO I MAKE SURE MY MICROBIOME IS BALANCED?
Both internal and external factors can contribute to the skin's microbiome. Hot showers can be very drying for the skin, interfering with its PH BALANCE. Using high-foaming cleansers should also be avoided, as these often contain harsh lathering ingredients that can strip the skin of its natural oils and kill off skin flora. Overusing active ingredients is also something to be aware of. Instead, opt for gentle products formulated with NATURAL INGREDIENTS and PLANT-BASED OILS. Using an EXFOLIATOR is a great way too speed up skin cell turnover, but exfoliating too frequently can also negatively impact the skin's microbiome. We recommend using our gentle but effective BODY POLISH a few times a week. Salicylic acid and charcoal powder deeply penetrate pores and remove impurities, while shea butter and soybean oil protect and nourish, leaving the skin smooth and hydrated.
WHAT CAN I DO TO NURTURE MY MICROBIOME?
Hydrated skin is healthy skin, so firstly ensure that you're drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day to nourish the skin from the inside out. Boost this with the application of topical products aimed at locking moisture into the skin. Our BODY MOISTURISER infuses the skin with long-lasting hydration and naturally active ingredients. Squalane and niacinamide elevate moisture levels and provide vital nutrients to support the skin’s barrier function. An antioxidant-rich blend of honeysuckle extract, cloudberry oil, soybean oil and shea butter soothes and softens. Try to have short, lukewarm showers or baths; use gentle and low-foam products; keep stress to a minimum as this can greatly affect the skin; and always use sun protection to shield yourself from UVA and UVB rays.