What is your skin microbiome?

Your skin isn't sterile – it's a living ecosystem. On every square centimeter of your skin live approximately one million microorganisms: bacteria, fungi, and viruses, which together form the skin's microbiome. It might sound alarming, but it's essential for your skin's health.

The skin microbiome differs depending on the body region. Different strains of bacteria dominate in moist areas such as the armpits than in dry areas such as the forearms. A study in the journal Science mapped the entire microbial landscape of human skin for the first time and found over 1,000 different types of bacteria.

The most important inhabitants of your skin are Staphylococcus epidermidis, Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes), and various Corynebacterium species. These "good" bacteria live in symbiosis with your skin – they benefit from the nutrients your skin provides and, in return, protect it from harmful germs.

Resident vs. transient skin flora: The difference

The skin flora can be divided into two categories:

Resident skin flora: These are the permanent inhabitants of your skin. They have perfectly adapted to their environment, multiply there, and form stable colonies. Resident skin flora includes Staphylococcus epidermidis and Corynebacterium species. They are difficult to remove – even thorough washing cannot completely eliminate them.

Transient skin flora: These microorganisms land on your skin accidentally – through touch, environmental contact, or contact with other people. They do not colonize permanently and can be removed by normal handwashing or skin disinfection. Potentially harmful germs can also be part of the transient skin flora.

The resident skin flora is your ally: it occupies niches on the skin and thus prevents harmful transient germs from taking hold. This principle is called "colonial resistance".

Why is the skin microbiome so important?

A healthy skin microbiome fulfills several critical functions:

Protection against pathogens: Beneficial bacteria compete with harmful germs for nutrients and habitat. They also produce antimicrobial substances that directly kill pathogens. Research published in Nature Reviews Microbiology shows that Staphylococcus epidermidis produces antimicrobial peptides that specifically target Staphylococcus aureus – a common cause of skin infections.

Supporting the skin barrier: The microbiome and the skin barrier are closely linked. The bacteria on your skin produce short-chain fatty acids and other metabolites that regulate the skin's pH and strengthen its barrier function.

Immune system training: The microorganisms on your skin are constantly communicating with your immune system. They train it to distinguish between harmless and dangerous germs. A disrupted microbiome can lead to excessive immune responses – a mechanism that plays a role in eczema and other inflammatory skin diseases.

Regulation of inflammation: Certain strains of bacteria have anti-inflammatory properties. They produce substances that dampen excessive inflammatory reactions in the skin.

Probiotics for the skin: What does science say?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when ingested in sufficient quantities, offer health benefits. While probiotics for gut health are well-researched, research on probiotics for skin is still relatively new, but promising.

There are three categories:

Probiotics (oral): Live bacteria in capsules or fermented foods that work via the gut. The "gut-skin axis" describes how the gut microbiome influences skin health. Studies show that oral probiotics can help with acne, rosacea, and atopic dermatitis.

Prebiotics (topical): Substances that serve as "food" for the beneficial bacteria on the skin. They promote the growth of the resident skin flora without being microorganisms themselves.

Postbiotics (topical): Non-living bacterial components or their metabolic products. These include fermented extracts such as Lactobacillus ferment lysate. They have the advantage of being more stable than live probiotics and are easier to incorporate into cosmetic products.

Probiotics' effects on the skin: The current state of research

Research on probiotics and skin has increased significantly in recent years. Here are the key findings:

Regarding acne: A meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology summarized 14 studies and found that both oral and topical probiotics can significantly improve acne symptoms. The mechanism: Probiotics reduce inflammation and can regulate the growth of Cutibacterium acnes (the "acne bacterium").

In rosacea: Rosacea patients often exhibit an altered skin microbiome with increased levels of certain bacteria and Demodex mites. Studies suggest that probiotics – both oral and topical – may reduce redness and inflammation in rosacea.

In the case of atopic dermatitis: Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is associated with a disrupted skin microbiome – often dominated by Staphylococcus aureus. Research shows that probiotics can restore the microbial balance and thus alleviate symptoms.

Anti-aging: Recent studies are investigating the influence of the skin microbiome on skin aging. A healthy microbiome supports collagen production and reduces oxidative stress. Initial data indicate that prebiotic and postbiotic ingredients can improve skin hydration and reduce fine lines.

Probiotics for blemished skin: What really helps?

Blemished skin often results from an imbalance in the skin microbiome. When Cutibacterium acnes proliferates excessively and an inflammatory reaction occurs simultaneously, pimples and blackheads develop.

Probiotics can help in several ways:

1. Regulation of sebum production: Certain strains of bacteria influence the activity of the sebaceous glands. A balanced microbiome can contribute to normalized sebum production.

2. Anti-inflammatory effect: Probiotics produce anti-inflammatory substances that reduce the redness and swelling of pimples.

3. Strengthening the skin barrier: An intact skin barrier prevents bacteria from penetrating deeper layers of skin and causing inflammation.

4. Antimicrobial effect: Some probiotics produce bacteriocins – natural antibiotics that specifically target certain harmful bacteria.

The Bioactive Prebiotic Gel Serum (€69.90) utilizes Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate – a postbiotic proven to support the skin microbiome and reduce redness by up to 70%. Its light gel texture is particularly suitable for blemished skin that cannot tolerate heavy, comedogenic products.

Building up the skin microbiome: 7 practical tips

A healthy skin microbiome is no accident – ​​you can actively contribute to promoting the good bacteria:

1. Less is more when it comes to cleaning.

Excessive washing with harsh cleansers not only removes dirt but also the protective, resident skin flora. Use mild, pH-neutral cleansers (pH 5-5.5) and avoid antibacterial soaps in your daily routine.

2. Be careful with disinfectants

Hand sanitizers are necessary in some situations, but should not become a constant companion. They eliminate transient skin flora (good), but also parts of the resident flora (less good).

3. Prebiotic and postbiotic skincare

Products containing Lactobacillus ferment lysate, Bifida ferment lysate, or other fermented ingredients nourish your skin microbiome. The Microbiome Balancing Face Mist (€49.90) is a simple way to support your microbiome during the day – simply spray it on, even over makeup.

4. Probiotics from within

The gut-skin axis is real. What you eat influences your skin microbiome. Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi provide natural probiotics. Alternatively, you can opt for probiotic supplements.

5. Fiber for your gut microbiome

Dietary fiber is a prebiotic for your gut – it feeds the good gut bacteria, which in turn benefit your skin. Vegetables, whole grains, and legumes should be a regular part of your diet.

6. Reduce stress

Chronic stress has been proven to alter the composition of the skin microbiome. Studies show that stress hormones can promote the growth of certain bacteria associated with skin inflammation.

7. Sufficient sleep

While you sleep, your skin regenerates – and your microbiome recovers as well. Lack of sleep is associated with increased inflammation levels and an altered microbiome.

Restoring skin flora: After antibiotics and similar treatments.

Antibiotics – whether taken orally or applied topically – can significantly disrupt the skin microbiome. They kill not only the target bacteria, but also parts of the beneficial skin flora.

Here's how you can rebuild your skin flora after antibiotic treatment:

Be patient: The resident skin flora usually recovers on its own – but this can take 2-4 weeks. Support the process by avoiding further stressing your skin.

Use prebiotic care: Products with fermented ingredients promote the growth of the remaining good bacteria.

Taking probiotics: Oral probiotics can also have a positive effect on the skin microbiome via the gut-skin axis.

Gentle cleansing: Avoid harsh cleansing products and scrubs during the recovery phase.

Eat fermented foods: Support your gut microbiome with yogurt, kefir or kombucha – this also indirectly affects the skin.

Probiotics: Side effects on the skin: What you should know

The question of probiotic side effects on the skin is frequently asked. Generally, probiotics are well tolerated, but there are a few points to consider:

Initial worsening of symptoms is possible: Some people report a temporary worsening of their skin condition when they start taking probiotics. This can be a sign that the microbiome is changing. This phase should subside after 1-2 weeks.

Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions to ingredients in topical products are possible. Always test new products on a small area of ​​skin first.

Individual differences: Not everyone reacts the same way to probiotics. What works wonders for one person may have no noticeable effect on another. This is due to the individual composition of the microbiome.

Quality matters: When it comes to oral probiotics, quality is crucial. Look for products with clearly declared bacterial strains and colony-forming units (CFU).

If you're wondering "Are probiotics good for the skin?" – the answer for most people is: Yes, but give your body time to adjust.

Prebiotics vs. Probiotics vs. Postbiotics: What is the difference?

These terms are often confused. Here's the distinction:

Probiotics: Live microorganisms that offer health benefits. Rarely used in skincare because live bacteria are difficult to stabilize. More common in dietary supplements and fermented foods.

Prebiotics: Substances that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria – essentially "food" for your microbiome. In skincare, these are often plant extracts, inulin, or certain oligosaccharides.

Postbiotics: Non-living bacterial components or metabolic products of bacteria. Lactobacillus ferment lysate is a typical example – it contains the beneficial components of fermented bacteria without requiring any living organisms in the product. Postbiotics are more stable and easier to formulate.

In modern skincare, you'll find prebiotics and postbiotics more often than true probiotics. The Bioactive Prebiotic Gel Serum combines postbiotic ingredients (Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate) with prebiotic components for comprehensive microbiome support.

The gut-skin axis: How your gut affects your skin

The connection between the gut and skin is more than a trend – it's scientifically sound. Both organs share a common embryonic origin and communicate via several pathways:

The immune system: 70-80% of your immune cells are located in the gut. A healthy gut microbiome trains the immune system and thus also influences inflammatory reactions in the skin.

Metabolites: Intestinal bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids and other substances that enter the bloodstream and can affect skin function.

The nervous system: The gut and skin are connected via the nervous system. Stress affects both organs – that's why many people experience a worsening of their skin condition under stress.

Studies show that people with skin problems such as acne, rosacea, or eczema are more likely to also have digestive problems or an altered gut microbiome. Conversely, improving gut health can have positive effects on the skin.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the skin microbiome

What is the difference between skin flora and skin microbiome?

The terms are often used synonymously. "Skin flora" is the older term and refers mainly to bacteria. "Skin microbiome" is more comprehensive and includes all microorganisms – bacteria, fungi, viruses, and archaea.

Can probiotics worsen acne?

A temporary initial worsening of symptoms is possible as the microbiome adjusts. This should subside after 1-2 weeks. If the worsening persists, the product may not be suitable for you.

How long does it take for probiotics to take effect on the skin?

With topical products, initial effects (less redness, improved hydration) may be visible after 2-4 weeks. With oral probiotics, it often takes 4-8 weeks for an effect on the skin to become apparent.

Does handwashing destroy the skin microbiome?

Normal handwashing with soap primarily removes the transient skin flora. The resident flora is anchored deeper in the skin and recovers quickly. However, excessive washing with harsh products can also disrupt the resident flora.

Which probiotics are best for the skin?

Lactobacillus strains (e.g., L. rhamnosus, L. paracasei) and Bifidobacteria are well-researched. Lactobacillus ferment lysate and Bifidobacteria ferment lysate are the most common ingredients in topical products.

Can I use probiotics and retinol together?

Yes, that's possible and can even be beneficial. Prebiotic and postbiotic ingredients can help strengthen the skin barrier and thus reduce typical retinol irritation. Use the prebiotic serum before the retinol.

Does makeup affect the skin microbiome?

Makeup can affect the skin microbiome – less through the ingredients themselves than through inadequate cleansing. If makeup residue remains on the skin, it can disrupt the microbial balance. Thorough but gentle makeup removal is therefore important.

Summary: How to support your skin microbiome

The skin's microbiome is a fascinating ecosystem that plays a crucial role in your skin health. Here are the key points:

Your skin microbiome is unique: billions of microorganisms live on your skin, protecting it from harmful germs, supporting the skin barrier, and regulating inflammation.

The resident skin flora is your ally: These permanent inhabitants suppress harmful germs and should be protected through gentle care.

Probiotics work on several levels: When taken orally, they influence the skin via the gut-skin axis. Applied topically (as pre- or postbiotics), they directly support the skin microbiome.

Less is more: Excessive cleansing and antibacterial products can disrupt the microbiome. Mild, pH-neutral skincare is better.

The gut-skin connection is real: Fermented foods, fiber and, if needed, probiotic supplements support your skin from within.

Products like the Bioactive Prebiotic Gel Serum and the Microbiome Balancing Face Mist offer a simple way to support your skin microbiome daily – for balanced, resilient skin.

Sources

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4. Lee YB, et al. (2017). Potential role of the microbiome in acne. Dermatology Online Journal . PubMed

5. Holmes AD, et al. (2018). Rosacea and the gastrointestinal system. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology . PubMed

6. Wollina U. (2017). Microbiome in atopic dermatitis. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology . PubMed

7. Sharma D, et al. (2018). The gut-skin axis: Impact of probiotics on skin diseases. Beneficial Microbes . PubMed

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9. Salem I, et al. (2018). The Gut Microbiome as a Major Regulator of the Gut-Skin Axis. Frontiers in Microbiology . PubMed