Defining Microbiome Skin Care

What is the skin microbiome and what exactly is it doing? There are a lot of fancy terms floating around the skin care industry, but the microbiome is actually just as fancy as it sounds.

This layer of living organisms on our skin is an essential part of our skin’s health, and we’re learning to find skin care that targets its healthy function. Here’s everything we know about caring for the skin microbiome through natural, quality skin care developed to keep our body’s barrier in tip-top shape.

All living things (and even some non-living things), plants and animals included, have a microbiome. We like to think of the microbiome as an invisible shield for the skin.

It’s a layer of healthy, helpful microorganisms (yes, bacteria) that actually protects our largest organ. The microbiome is a thriving community of bacteria, fungi, and other microscopic organisms that help to fortify the skin’s barrier, maintaining immunity and preventing imbalance.

As counterintuitive as it may seem, the microbes living on our skin are for our good. Some of the benefits of microbes include helping with optimal brain function by producing important transmission chemicals, diminishing the likelihood of heart issues like heart attacks and high cholesterol, and being the foundation of gut health, which is ultimately linked to healthy, clear, glowing skin.

As we mentioned, the microbiome is crucial for gut health, which often directly relates to how our skin looks and behaves. We know that the organisms in our microbiome are keeping away inflammatory skin conditions like dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis while also helping to keep our skin protected from harsh environmental conditions like UV exposure and pollution. But we also know that we don’t always take the best care of our guts (or our skin).

So, believe it or not, we actually rely on our microbiome to stay healthy. It’s working hard, regulating basic bodily functions. And, in a big way, it’s responsible for keeping our skin in a healthy, neutral state.

Microbiome skin care products aren’t super difficult to find. As a growing trend, products developed for the microbiome – or probiotic skin care, as it is often called – are becoming more popular with both well-known and indie brands.

The first thing we look for in a microbiome-friendly skin care item is a simplified product formula. Something with clearly labeled ingredients that don’t require a scientist to decipher is critical. A short list of ingredients also means less interference with the natural microbiome.

Next, we want to find products that call out their microbiome skin support or probiotic status directly. Typically, the product will provide a clue in the name. However, we’re also looking for certain ingredients. Searching for products with fermented components especially is usually a huge giveaway that it’s a great product for the microbiome.

Vitamins are included in most skin care products. But we want to see them in something that’s supposed to be as enriching as, for example, a microbiome skin serum or cream. Be sure the ingredients call out collagen, vitamin C, and B vitamins for the best results.

This one is more of an opinion, but something we’ve run into quite a bit in our searches for probiotic microbiome skin care. Outside of the common terms, like probiotics, microbiome skin care, and multi-biotics, there are a few common descriptors that tend to come up often with these types of items. Primarily, these are: restorative, revitalizing, and renewing.

There are quite a few ingredients that can make microbiome skin products work even better. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Yogurt
• Green tea
• Essential oils
• Fermented components
• Hydrating elements, like water or hyaluronic acid

For most of us, we may not have perfect skin, but we’re usually targeting something specific to achieve the flawless, glowing skin of our dreams. While many purport that gentle products, or products made for sensitive skin, are good for the microbiome, that’s not always true.

Since the microbiome is composed of (mostly) healthy bacteria, soaps that are too clarifying or strongly antibacterial can often have an adverse effect. They’re usually strong enough to kill both the bad and good bacteria that our skin needs to preserve our barrier. For example, products that address acne often have harsh acids that can strip skin. Rough use of large exfoliants–like those with sea salt–can also be disruptive to the microbiome.

If we want to keep our skin barrier healthy and high-functioning, it’s important to avoid clarifying skin care. This strips the skin of its natural oils and can temporarily worsen the skin.

As we often say, not all skin care products are made equal. And while many purport that gentle products, or products made for sensitive skin, are good for the microbiome, we’re seeing that probiotic skin care is actually a more reliable way to maintain the health of our skin overall.

Your skin is home to millions of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that make up your skin microbiome. This complex ecosystem plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin by protecting it from harmful pathogens, regulating pH balance, and keeping it moisturized. Using skincare products that are tailored to your microbiome can help support and maintain this delicate balance, leading to healthier, clearer, and more radiant skin. By feeding your skin the nutrients and ingredients it needs, and avoiding harsh fragrances and chemicals that disrupt your microbiome, you can help your skin thrive and achieve its best possible version.

Here are some of our favorite products for a healthy microbiome:

Vitamin C Serum
Maintaining a healthy and vibrant microbiome is essential to achieving a glowing and youthful complexion. And this is where a lightweight and stabilized vitamin C serum comes in to support your skin. Unlike other serums, this natural and vegan formula is a perfect blend of hydrating aloe gel, green apple, and grape extracts. Plus, it is enriched with alpha lipoic acid (ALA) that helps fight oxidative damage caused by environmental aggressors. Not only does this serum help firm and brighten skin tone, but it also boosts collagen production for a more youthful appearance. Get your hands on this reliable serum and let it work its magic for a healthier microbiome and confident glow.

Hydra Drench Cream
Hydration is key to maintaining a healthy microbiome, but finding the right moisturizer can be a challenge. Thankfully, this lightweight formula, infused with omega-rich gel water from chia seeds, effectively quenches thirsty skin and supports its natural microbiome. And the best part? It absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue behind. Whether you have oily, combo, or sensitive skin, this hydrating formula has got you covered, making your skin feel refreshed and rejuvenated all day long. If you have drier skin, layering an additional oil-based moisturizer over this light formula can provide the extra hydration you need. So why not give your skin the drink of water it deserves?

Watermelon Cucumber Water Locking Mist
Filled with nourishing ingredients like watermelon and cucumber waters, hyaluronic acid, and polyglutamic acids, this mist plumps rejuvenates and smooths the skin for the ultimate glow-up. Plus, it's cruelty-free and promotes cell regeneration while soothing the microbiome. With moisturizing Irish Moss Extract and moisture-locking Hyaluronic Acid, you won't have to worry about a greasy residue. Take your skincare routine to the next level with this powerhouse mist.

Intensive Nourishing Balm
Repairing a damaged microbiome can be a frustrating and challenging issue for many of us. Fortunately, our intensive moisture treatment for the face and body can provide the nourishing solution you need. Our specially formulated blend of rich butters and nourishing oils offer a concentrated solution to combat areas of extreme dryness on your body. Say goodbye to dry patches around your nose, elbows, and feet, or any area that's prone to dryness. Our multipurpose salve is infused with calming lavender oil to soothe dry, itchy, or flakey skin as well. Don't let dry skin cause you discomfort any longer; treat it with our intensive moisture treatment and experience its restorative effects today!

Niacinamide Boost
Give your skin a special treat with this water-activated treatment for reviving youthfulness! A blend of vitamin B3 and hyaluronic acid helps to restore texture, tone, and hydration. Niacinamide effectively minimizes the appearance of large pores while combating oil levels - making you look fresh as ever. Hyaluronic Acid's divinely indulgent properties further quench parched skin, revealing that rejuvenated glow within days!

What is microbiome skincare, and how does it differ from traditional skincare?

Microbiome skincare refers to products and practices that are designed to support and balance the microbiome, the community of beneficial bacteria and microorganisms living on the skin. Unlike traditional skincare, which often focuses on cleansing and treating the skin's surface, microbiome skincare emphasizes maintaining the natural balance of skin flora. This approach can lead to healthier skin that is better able to protect against environmental stressors and less prone to common issues like dryness, acne, and irritation.

How does the skin's microbiome impact overall skin health?

The skin's microbiome plays a crucial role in protecting against pathogens, maintaining the skin's pH balance, and regulating inflammation. A healthy and balanced microbiome acts as a natural defense system, protecting against harmful bacteria and environmental damage. When the microbiome is disrupted, it can lead to various skin problems, including dryness, acne, eczema, and increased sensitivity.

What types of ingredients should be looked for in microbiome skincare products?

In microbiome skincare products, look for ingredients that nourish and support the skin's natural flora. These include prebiotics, which feed beneficial bacteria, and postbiotics, which are beneficial compounds produced by these bacteria. Additionally, ingredients like ceramides, fatty acids, and natural oils can help strengthen the skin's barrier function, further supporting the microbiome. It's also important to avoid harsh chemicals, sulfates, and fragrances that can disrupt the microbiome.

Can microbiome skincare help with specific skin conditions like acne or eczema?

Yes, microbiome skincare can be particularly beneficial for conditions like acne and eczema. These conditions are often linked to an imbalance in the skin's microbiome. By restoring and supporting the microbiome, these products can help reduce inflammation, soothe irritation, and promote healthier skin. However, it's important to combine microbiome skincare with a holistic approach, including diet and lifestyle factors, for best results.

Are there any particular skin types that benefit most from microbiome skincare?

Microbiome skincare is beneficial for all skin types, but it can be especially advantageous for those with sensitive, reactive, or problematic skin. People with conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and dry skin often have an imbalanced microbiome, so products that support and restore this balance can help alleviate these issues. Additionally, as we age, our skin's natural ability to maintain a balanced microbiome decreases, making these products a good choice for mature skin as well.