The good balance of bacteria can really result in glowing skin as well as healthy scalp …And that’s true!
The relationship between the microbiome and skin has become the next frontier disrupting the dermocosmetics industry. Skin microbiome is no more a trend rather developments are confirming how a balanced flora could have a positive effect on skin health and ensures a protected, less attacked skin. This is further backed by health-conscious consumers who are increasingly showing interest in the topic.
Undoubtedly, this science holds HUGE potential and we see more & more collaborations as well as product innovations fulfilling the growing trend of microbiome in the cosmetics and personal care industry.
What is microbiome? Our bodies are huge ecosystems where numerous bacterial, viral, fungal and other microorganisms’ communities live in symbiosis. This bacterium collection is called “microbiome”. While most of these microorganisms can be found inside the body, “gut/digestive” tract, a significant amount of beneficial bacterium species have also been uncovered on the skin’s surface called as ‘skin microbiome’!
Study after study has found that our microbiome affects nearly every aspect of our health and the microbial composition vary from individual to individual like we have unique set of genes!
Every person’s microbiome is determined by age, gender, diet as well as climate and pollution. Moreover, this bacterial diversity also differs by body zone as well.
Before we discuss growing research and new cosmetics ingredients launches in this growing field, first let us see how these microorganisms are beneficial for skin.
Skin Health & Well-being – Role of Microorganisms
The microbiome, or microbiota, helps in protecting skin health as well as promote wellbeing. The healthy balance of beneficial bacterium species on the skin’s surface can be interrupted by various factors, such as:
- Unhygienic lifestyle or even being too hygienic (Excessive use of antibacterial products)
- Environmental factors such as pollution, external aggressors etc.
And, interruptions or imbalances can lead to various skin disorders like barrier function disruption or excessive inflammation, eczema, allergies, dandruff or acne.
- In acne vulgaris patients, the population structure on the strain level of Propionibacterium acnes is different
- Psoriasis patients are characterized by increase in the abundance of the major skin genera resulting in a community differentiation of the cutaneous microbiota of psoriatic patient
- Atopic dermatitis and seborrhoeic dermatitis are linked to an increase in Staphylococcus aureus levels and to the fungi Malassezia levels respectively
Some common skin problems and associated causes are mentioned below:
| Skin Problem |
Microorganism |
| Acne |
P. acnes, S. epidermidis |
| Atopic dermatitis |
S. Aureus |
| Rosasea |
B. oleronius, S. epidermidis |
| Dandruff |
Malassezia species |
| Psoriasis |
Skin: Candida, S. Aureus
Scalp: Malassezia
|
| Diaper rash |
C. albicans |
| Beard |
Tinea, S. Aureus, Candida |
| Inflammation |
Multiple |
These all can lead to visible signs of skin sensitivity.
Well known in the nutrition and gut space, pro-, pre- and post-biotics are beginning to be leveraged for the development of novel skin cosmetics.
Cosmetic companies are now translating the skin microbiome into safe, effective and commercially viable dermatological therapeutics. They are designing health-enhancing skin care products that contain live bacteria, bacteria extracts, or ingredients meant to enhance skin microbe activity. These cosmetic products can help treat a range of skin conditions from acne to eczema.
» Find out how the involvement of key cosmetics players and importance of collaboration between brands is bringing this interesting field to forefront. Also know more about various cosmetics ingredients successfully meeting this growing trend!