Skin Microbiome – The Hidden World of Healthy Skin

If the food mantra, “you are what you eat” or the old saying “trust your gut” does hold some truth, does your gut hold true for your skin, too? If it’s the gut microbiome, with science-backed data on its role in influencing our immune and mental health, we’ve got a pretty good gut feeling it influences overall skin health. In fact, 100% PURE has been on the frontier of pioneering microbiome-friendly skincare!

While it may not sound glamorous, just like the bacteria and microorganisms in our gut have a large impact on our overall health, the microbes on your skin impact the way it looks and feels. In a gut shell, a healthy diet = beneficial bacteria = healthier skin and health!

So, if you are mostly what you eat, then balanced, beautiful skin does begin in your gut. 100% PURE supports this skin-gut connection and advocates for not only the skin microbiome’s role in maintaining ultimate skin health but also how its imbalance can lead to various skin issues. That’s why we’re committed to formulating products that support and nurture a healthy skin microbiome.

Let’s uncover the hidden world of radiant skin through the skin microbiome, and how natural, quality skincare with a mix of prebiotics and probiotics can help you achieve glowing skin from the inside and out. Happy gut, happy skin – happy life!

Understanding the Skin Microbiome

As our body's largest organ, the skin serves as the frontline of defense against environmental aggressors – it’s like an invisible shield for the skin. Integral to its protective role is the skin microbiome—a diverse community of bacteria, fungi, and viruses living on our skin's surface. This complex community plays a vital role in maintaining skin health, functioning not only as a protective barrier against pathogens but also in supporting the skin's immune response and helping to regulate inflammation.

As briefly mentioned, our microbiome is our skin’s first line of defense against harmful bacteria and foreign organisms. The community of microorganisms living on your skin microbiome is known as “skin flora,” which are mostly bacteria but can consist of fungi and viruses, too. Maintaining a balance of microorganisms or flora is essential to your overall skin health. This diversity and abundance help your skin regulate its pH levels, and it helps defend itself against harmful pathogens, dryness, infections, and painful skin conditions

As stated earlier, the microbiome is crucial for gut health, which often directly relates to how our skin looks and behaves; a.k.a. the gut-skin connection. We know that the organisms in our microbiome keep 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. This makes it vital to take care of your gut health, and, as a result, your skin will take care of you.

So, trust your gut that we actually rely on it for our microbiome to stay healthy. It’s working hard, helping with health and mental issues, overall wellness, and being ultimately linked to healthy, clear, glowing skin.

Benefits of a Balanced Skin Microbiome

We’ve learned a healthy skin microbiome is characterized by diversity and balance of microorganisms, which is pivotal for skin health. When this balance is maintained, the skin is better equipped to ward off infections and harmful pathogens, dryness, irritation, and painful or inflamed skin conditions.

A balanced skin microbiome can mitigate inflammation, resulting in keeping away inflammatory skin conditions like dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis while also helping to keep our skin protected from harsh environmental conditions like UV damage and environmental pollutants.

When the microorganisms are balanced, the skin microbiome can better maintain its function as a protective barrier and regulate its pH levels. This is key to your skin’s health as an unbalanced or weakened skin barrier will leave you more prone to dry skin since it’s less able to prevent trans-epidermal water loss. The skin may feel tight after every cleanse, and may even become flaky.

The skin barrier will also have a harder time defending against those faceless phantom-invading microbes, and this can lead to quite a few skin issues (more on that below). On top of that, premature aging becomes more of a risk for a frequently parched skin barrier, resulting in a complexion prone to dehydration, dullness, and the early onset of wrinkles.

So, the better you maintain hydration and moisturization inside and out – drinking enough water and using a moisturizer – the better balanced your microbiome; the better your shots at clearer, more resilient skin.

Common Disruptors of the Skin Microbiome

The equilibrium of the skin microbiome can be easily disturbed by various external factors. Since the balance of flora on your skin is so delicate and complex, it can be easy to cause an imbalance if you’re not mindful. In addition, even the balance and integrity of the skincare ingredients you apply might be tipping the scales out of your skin microbiome's favor. Here are a few things that might be causing it:

#1: Using harsh scrubs and cleansers

Your cleansers should be hard on dirt and buildup, but gentle on your skin. They should be supporting your skin barrier – not drying your natural oils out. When your cleanser is too alkaline, you can disrupt your skin’s naturally acidic pH. There’s a close link between good bacteria and ideal skin pH. A more basic pH can kill off pH-friendly bacteria and encourage the growth of harmful microorganisms. On the other end, bad pathogens are attracted to higher (more alkaline) pH levels.

Similarly, a harsh scrub tends to have ingredients that disrupt your skin’s pH. A harsh scrub can also physically remove friendly bacteria and substances that friendly bacteria “eat.”

#2. Applying harsh skincare products

Skincare products play a particularly significant role in shaping the skin's microbiome. Traditional skincare formulations, especially those containing harsh or toxic ingredients, can strip the skin of its natural oils and beneficial bacteria, disrupting the microbiome's balance. This disruption can weaken the skin's barrier function, leaving it more susceptible to damage and infection.

#3: Over-exfoliating or cleansing

Even if you use a gentle scrub or cleanser, beware of exfoliating too often. Over-exfoliation leads to wearing down and damaging your skin’s microbiome; this often leads to excessive dryness, irritation, or even infection.

#4: Applying super-astringent products

Astringent products are meant to remove oil from your skin’s surface. At first glance, this may seem like a good idea for oily skin. But in the long run, drying your skin out won’t do you any favors. Removing your natural oils makes your skin less favorable to good bacteria. This can increase moisture loss – and lead to dryness and an imbalanced skin microbiome.

#5: Experiencing environmental pollutants

Your skin microbiome helps protect you from outside stressors. Not protecting it from UV rays and other environmental pollutants is only asking for trouble! These factors can lead to skin damage and dryness that affect the bacteria on your skin and its microbiome. Be sure to wear sun protection year-round!

#6: Damaging skin barrier

Exposure to environmental pollutants can damage the skin and alter the composition of its microbiome, leading to issues like increased sensitivity, acne, eczema, and other skin conditions. It’s crucial to wear sun protection and use other UV protectants, like wearing a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing when outdoors.

#7: Having a poor diet

Avoid processed foods and a high sugar intake due to their potential to disrupt gut health and skin clarity. Eat healthy foods: To maintain a healthy body and skin, it’s crucial to eat right and stay hydrated. A balanced diet of healthy foods like dark, leafy greens and fermented foods provides your body with the building blocks it needs to heal wounds, maintain elasticity and vibrancy, and balance the bacteria in your skin. Be sure to stay well-hydrated with plenty of water.

Similarly, other lifestyle factors such as stress, and a lack of exercise and sleep can influence the microbiome's health and, by extension, the skin's appearance and resilience.

Nurturing the Skin Microbiome with Natural Ingredients

In the quest for clear, healthy skin, the role of the skin microbiome has emerged as a pivotal factor. Recognizing this, 100% PURE incorporates an array of natural, nutrient-rich ingredients in its formulations, each selected for its proven benefits to nurture and support a flourishing skin microbiome.

Let's delve into the science and benefits behind some of these key ingredients that support a balanced skin microbiome.

Prebiotics: Feed beneficial bacteria and help maintain a healthy balance. Eat foods high in fiber: Also, known as prebiotics, fiber-rich foods aid in timely digestion and feed the healthy gut bacteria we need. Options include fan-favorite garlic and onions, smoothies, bananas and berries, and, of course, whole grains, oats, and nuts.

Probiotics: Introduce beneficial bacteria to the skin. Ingesting healthy bacteria may sound off-putting, but it’s one of the best ways to achieve gut health - and surprisingly tasty. Some of our favorite foods like yogurt and kimchi contain probiotics; but when we can’t source probiotics in our diets, adding a probiotic supplement may work, too.

Fermented Ingredients: Enhance the skin’s natural defenses and improve microbiome health. The probiotics in fermented ingredients can help tip the scales in your favor for a balanced, happy skin microbiome. They can help introduce good bacteria and fight off pathogens that may have dominated your skin’s surface.

Aloe Vera: Soothes and hydrates, promoting a healthy environment for the microbiome. Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera is a cornerstone for skin hydration and repair. Cultivated sustainably, organic aloe not only supports healthy skin but also encourages a healthy, hydrated, and balanced skin microbiome.

Green Tea: Provides antioxidants and supports microbiome balance. Green tea’s rich content of catechins, such as EGCG, offers potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it an excellent ally against microbial imbalances.

5 100% PURE Products for a Healthy Skin Microbiome

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 our top five products for a healthy skin microbiome:

#1. Fermented Rice Water Cleanser

This gentle cleanser harnesses the power of fermented rice water or sake to effectively cleanse and balance your skin, removing impurities without disrupting the microbiome. Sake acts as a natural skincare exfoliant for softening and renewing dull, lackluster skin. White mulberry, mushroom, licorice, and citrus balance skin tone, lessen the appearance of dark spots, and brighten for glowing skin. Packed with antioxidants and amino acids, this cleanser leaves your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

#2. Restorative Sea Culture Replenishing Serum

This super serum supports microbiome health with antioxidants and more! Using ingredients like hyaluronic acid is the most effective way to replenish skin from within for longer-lasting suppleness and hydration. Chia gel water, sea kelp, and algae also aid in water absorption with their gelatinous texture, and yeast ferment reduces inflammation and detoxifies the skin without disrupting the skin’s protective barrier.

END 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.

#3. Lavender Oat Milk Soothing Cleanser

This soothing, skin-softening powder cleanser calms and nurtures the skin’s natural balance. It gently washes away makeup, sunblock, and environmental impurities without stripping your skin’s protective barrier. This nourishing cleanser is made with beta glucan-rich colloidal oatmeal; soothing rose petals; deeply purifying lavender; moisturizing coconut milk; restorative echinacea and anti-inflammatory botanicals like chrysanthemum, calendula, and chamomile.

#4. Deep Hydration Sheet Mask

A deluxe pamper treat for you and your skin microbiome, this mask delivers beneficial hydration directly to the skin. This intensely hydrating mask is formulated in a base of pure aloe leaf juice. We all know by now that aloe is healing, hydrating, and calming. But it also helps to soothe skin conditions, including itchiness, dryness, burns, scarring, blemishes, rashes, and breakouts. Skin is nourished and balanced!

#5. 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 hydrates and supports a healthy microbiome environment. 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.

Incorporating Microbiome-Friendly Practices

If you’ve disrupted your microbiome or you need some more tips for maintaining a healthy skin microbiome, we have your back! You can still help bring your skin to a glowy, hydrated state and keep it that way. Here are a few steps for restoring your skin to its healthy glory and some ways to incorporate microbiome-friendly practices in your skincare routine.

Avoid over cleansing

Stop using harsh cleansers. Opt for gentle, pH-balanced cleansers. Avoid harsh cleansing ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate. They’re too drying!

Stop scrubbing

If you find that a physical scrub is too rough or sensitizing for you, find a gentler option. This can be a more pleasant physical exfoliant or a chemical exfoliant. Avoid over-exfoliation by using your products only 1-3 times a week.

Use fermented skin care products

The probiotics in fermented skincare products can help tip the scales in your favor once again. They can help introduce good bacteria and fight off pathogens that have dominated your skin’s surface. Be sure to also add prebiotics and probiotics into your diet for total health and skin-win!

Add more moisturization to the mix

If you’ve dried your skin out excessively, adding moisture to your routine is essential. You’re helping to create an environment favorable to good bacteria and rebuilding your moisture barrier. Be sure to use plenty of humectants and use a facial oil to seal in that hydration. Remember to use an oil for your skin type!

Use sunscreen

Perhaps most important is sun protection. UV rays can inhibit our skin in more ways than one. Besides affecting the diversity of our skin bacteria, UV rays can cause faster visible aging and hyperpigmentation. Don’t skimp out on reapplying either. We often don’t apply enough sunscreen in the first place!

FAQ Section: Navigating the Skin 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.

What are the best natural ingredients for supporting the skin microbiome?

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 an unhealthy diet affect my skin microbiome?

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

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.

Are 100% PURE products safe for all skin types?

Microbiome skin care 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.

Conclusion

In recent years, the science of skincare has taken a pivotal turn, shining a spotlight on the skin microbiome. This complex ecosystem plays a critical role in protecting against pathogens, regulating inflammation, and maintaining overall skin health and integrity. As the understanding of the skin microbiome's importance deepens, the clean skincare movement has evolved, focusing not just on avoiding harmful ingredients but also on formulating products that support and enhance the microbiome's delicate balance.

100% PURE™ stands at the forefront of this revolution, embodying a steadfast commitment to innovation, purity, and the unwavering development of clean, microbiome-friendly formulations. Our ethos, deeply rooted in the principle of absolute purity, extends beyond mere product creation. It is a testament to our dedication to the well-being of our customers, the welfare of all living beings, and the health of our planet. Through our stringent purity standards, we ensure that our products, free from harsh or toxic ingredients, serve not only to beautify but to balance and nourish the skin microbiome.

As we continue to innovate and educate, we invite you to join us on this journey towards a healthier, more radiant complexion, underpinned by a respect for the intricate beauty of the skin microbiome and crafting the best microbiome-friendly products to nurture and maintain the skin’s natural defenses. With 100% PURE, the future of clean skincare is not just a promise but a reality we are creating together, one product at a time. Happy gut, happy skin – happy life!