Microbiome
Definition
The skin microbiome refers to the vast community of microorganisms — including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and mites — that live on the surface of the skin. A healthy skin microbiome contains trillions of these organisms and plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health. Beneficial microbes help protect against pathogenic (harmful) organisms, regulate the immune response, support the skin barrier, influence inflammation, and even help with wound healing. The composition of the skin microbiome varies across different body regions and is influenced by factors like pH, moisture, sebum production, age, diet, hygiene practices, and the use of skincare products and antibiotics. Disruption of the microbiome (dysbiosis) has been linked to conditions like acne, eczema, rosacea, and dandruff. The growing understanding of the microbiome has led to the development of probiotic, prebiotic, and postbiotic skincare products designed to support microbial balance.
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