The Skin Microbiome, What It Is, Why It Matters, How To Protect It, What Ingredients To Avoid

Human skin is not a blank surface. It is an active environment for lots of micro‑organisms. Most are bacteria, yet smaller populations of fungi and viruses also live there. Together they form on the skin microbiome. Research groups have found close to a thousand bacterial species across many different strains. They take up every fold, follicle and pore, and they feed on the mixture of sweat, sebum and environmental material that gets on the skin. These microbes join the skin’s own cells in maintaining the barrier that stands between the body and the outside world. A lot of them live peacefully beside one another, and a stable community starts to build within hours of birth, influenced by factors such as delivery method, early diet and environment. As we grow older the microbiome continues to change, affected by hormones, climate, personal hygiene and the products we apply. Understanding this living layer is an interesting field of study because it offers clues to healthier skin and better wellbeing. 

What it is 

The skin microbiome is a film of bacteria and fungi that coats the epidermis. Healthy strains help to keep the surface a bit acidic, creating conditions that prevent many disease causing organisms. Some of them produce small molecules with antibacterial effects, slowing down or killing germs before they can multiply. Others compete for space and nutrients and then replace troublemakers. Communication also plays a part. Helpful microbes send messages to immune cells using chemicals, telling them when unusual organisms show up. Microbe by‑products help strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier by boosting the production of natural moisturisers. They can even change parts of sweat and sebum into materials that positively impact skin function. When the skin is injured, these microbes release signals that speed cell renewal and co‑ordinate inflammation so that healing begins in the right way. 

Why it matters 

A good and healthy mix of skin microbes will help protect your skin, but if that balance shifts too much it can cause issues, this is known as dysbiosis and is linked to common inflammatory conditions such as eczema, acne, rosacea and psoriasis. In eczema, these flare ups will happen when there’s a rise in the bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus, this shows that changes in skin microbes can then lead to irritation. It is also reported that certain gut bacteria change at the same time as microorganisms that live on the skin, suggesting that a wider range of network joins inside and outside the body. Even without a visible rash, an unbalanced and disrupted microbiome can weaken the skin’s barrier, and will allow allergens and other toxins to get in and cause more inflammation. Chronic inflammation is uncomfortable, and it can also affect self esteem and day to day activities, leading to a negative quality of life. A recent review published in January 2025 detailed the wider relevance of working towards a stable skin microbiome, as it links to immune regulation, metabolic balance and mental health. These findings show that taking care of the tiny organisms on our skin isn’t just about looks, it’s an important part of staying healthy. 

How to protect it 

Routine self care has a larger impact than any single product. Cleansing is the first step where damage often occurs, so using a mild cleansing wash helps. Mild cleansers can help to dissolve surface grime without washing away the natural oils that protect helpful microbes. Washing the face twice a day with warm, not hot, water is usually ok. After cleansing, a plain, fragrance/chemical free moisturiser helps the outer layer of skin to stay hydrated, soft and comfortable to offer the microbes a stable environment. 

What you eat helps to keep your skin’s microbes healthy from the inside out. Meals rich in plant fibre, including asparagus, oats, garlic and soybeans, supply prebiotics that feed helpful bacteria. Fermented foods such as live yoghurt, kefir and kimchi provide extra strains of beneficial microbes that may settle on the skin after surviving the digestive tract. Where access or preference makes this difficult, a supplement that delivers one to ten billion colony‑forming units can fill the gap. Lifestyle choices matter as well. Seven to eight hours of sleep, regular exercise that boosts circulation, and exposure to fresh air and nature all appear to encourage healthier skin flora. 

What ingredients to avoid 

Several ingredients and habits can chip away at the skin’s microscopic support team. Very alkaline bar soaps raise surface pH for hours, giving bottom feeder microbes a firm grip. Chronic application of alcohol heavy sanitisers or antibacterial washes, removes protective species alongside pathogens. Strong preservatives and high levels of synthetic fragrance can cause irritation, indirectly disturbing microbial balance by pushing inflammation. Scrubs that rely on coarse particles can create micro‑tears where unwanted bacteria lodge, while overuse of powerful exfoliating acids thins the outer layer and leaves resident microbes exposed. Even natural substances, such as certain essential oils, can upset equilibrium when used at high concentrations or without dilution. The guiding principle is to keep things simple and not over use harsh products. Daily saturation can erode the diversity that keeps the community stable. Checking ingredients, testing new products on a small area first, and eating well all support the skin’s microbiome. 

Summary 

The skin microbiome is a busy, invisible ally. It keeps harmful germs in check, adjusts immunity, guides healing and supports the moisture barrier. Modern life introduces challenges, from aggressive cleansers to our everyday environment, yet thoughtful choices can preserve balance. A gentle cleansing routine, consistent moisturising and a fibre rich diet that includes live cultures all contribute to a stable community of skin microbes. Avoiding overuse of harsh surfactants, antibacterial agents and highly fragrant products further safeguards this ecosystem. When the microbiome thrives, the skin is less reactive, more resilient and better able to perform its role as the body’s first line of defence. Caring for these microscopic partners therefore benefits both appearance and long‑term health.

Written by Saffron Cockle, qualified Detox Practitioner through The Detox Practitioner School. Connect with Saffron HERE.