Sometimes we think of skin only as it relates to beauty, but it's essential to our overall health, as well. After all, it's the largest organ in the body and the major interface between the body and pretty much everything outside of the body. Our skin is also home to a vast array of microbes, and research has just begun to piece together the important role they play in our health and more exciting research is on the horizon.

What Is the skin microbiome?

The skin microbiome sometimes called the skin flora, is the term for the trillions of bugs that live on our skin. There are 1,000 different bacterial species and up to 80 different fungi species. Some of these are also residents of your gut microbiome, including Staph, Strep, and Candida species. There are also a few Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species on certain areas of the skin but much less so than in the gut.

The skin microbiome changes depending on the location. The critters also vary depending on the amount of light and whether the area is moist, dry, hairy, or oily. And the microbiome differs with age and gender. For instance, a hormonal, sweaty teenage boy sports a very different microbiome than a sedentary, postmenopausal woman.

How does it play a role in our health?

1. Communicates with our immune system.

We once thought that our microbiome only existed on the surface of the skin and that the deeper dermal layers were sterile. We now know that's not true. In 2013, scientists did a deep dive into the dermis looking for microbes, which were found all the way to the subcutaneous fat layer. While the researchers noted that more studies are needed, it appears that the most intimate communication between the microbiome and our immune system takes place at this layer.

2. Protects us against infection.

From what we can tell, a healthy skin microbiome protects against infection in much the same way a good gut microbiome does: by crowding out the overgrowth of pathogenic organisms. The skin microbiome prefers a relatively acidic environment (pH is around 5.0), which also inhibits the growth of pathogens.

 

3. Tempers inflammation.

The microbiome and skin immune system "talk" to each other regularly, dampening inflammation. When the microbiome is out of line, the immune system can release various antimicrobial peptides such as cathelicidin to help balance things out. Likewise, our good bacterial residents can inhibit the release of inflammatory compounds from the immune system.

 

How is the microbiome compromised, and what happens?

You're probably familiar with the idea that loads of antibiotics, other medications, and a poor diet can damage the gut microbiome. This is called the "hygiene hypothesis," and there's a lot of research to support this important concept.

Ditto for the skin microbiome. Excess use of antimicrobial hand sanitizers and soaps contributes to skin dysbiosis and antibiotic resistance,thus stoking various skin conditions, research shows. An imbalanced microbiome, or skin dysbiosis, is associated with many health conditions, including psoriasis, allergies, eczema, contact dermatitis, acne, poor wound healing, skin ulcers, dandruff, yeast and fungal infections, rosacea, and accelerated skin aging.

It's compromised by way of two factors: what you put on our skin, and what you put in your body.

1. You're using the wrong products.

So, if you're addicted to "clean," you could be damaging your skin microbiome. Take soap, for example: By its very nature, it's alkalinizing. That's how it works to remove dirt and microbes. But recall that our skin microbiome prefers a pH of about 4.5-5.5. At this relatively acidic pH, the healthy microbiome thrives. It's also understood that the opportunistic bacteria—the dysbiotic players—do better at a higher, more alkaline pH. And soap has a pH of up to about 10. Thus, we may be damaging our microflora with soap or other alkaline topical products and setting the stage for increased risk for skin issues.

Your skin microbiome is a strong, yet delicate thing. To ensure you are not inadvertently compromising its function, look at your topicals and evaluate your gut microbiome health.

How can I support my microbiome?

1. Eat healthily and stay hydrated.

I recommend good fats, proteins, carbohydrates, colorful vegetables, and clean water. Keep processed foods and extra sugar out of the diet. Research shows that what you put in your mouth indeed influences your skin and skin microbiome in many ways.

2. Identify and remove trigger foods.

Since we know that your skin microbiome may be influenced by internal inflammation, look to limit foods that are known skin irritants. For example, dairy and gluten are both associated with exacerbating a range of skin issues, including eczema and acne.

3. Take care of your gut.

As we know that skin issues are greatly influenced by the gut microbiome and gut health in general, I recommend taking a daily high-quality probiotic. Much research exists on the use of probiotics in supporting a healthy gut and therefore skin microbiome.*

4. Be smart about hand sanitizers and harsh soaps.

Let your microbiome thrive. While, yes, it's critical to practice good hygiene, it's also important to make sure you are still letting the good bacteria stick around on your skin. While easier said than done right now, you can tend to your skin by using more gentle hand sanitizers like those in our “Best Defense “line, rather than surfactants, sulfates, and detergents), as well as hand sanitizers that are buffered with ingredients like aloe vera, from the same “ Best Defense” line to help keep your skin barrier in check. Finally, make sure you moisturize your hands regularly after washing and sanitizing. We also have products for that exact purpose that also boost your immune system at the same time.

 

Try our topical probiotic-type creams that save your microbiome.

Topical probiotics, like found in several skin care lines, are a growing area of research..

The takeaway.

With each passing year, we come to realize more and more how important our skin microbiome is for our overall health. Not only will it help our skin aesthetically, but it also helps protect our body. If you want to make sure your microflora is flourishing, just be mindful of harsh products and keep your skin moisturized.

Thanks to Kara Fitzgerald, N.D. Physician for her research and information which was incredible.  

 

Here at Private Label Skincare Florida, we are always looking for every way possible to improve not only the skin and hair but the health of the entire body.  We can make you any type of personal care items that protect the delicate microbiome