Skin Microbiome - What Is It and What Are Its Benefits?

When it comes to skincare, most people know the basics. You exfoliate, wash, tone, and moisturize and that's about it, isn't it? What if we told you, much like fashion, there are changing skincare trends? One year it's all-natural ingredients, and the following year it's hyaluronic acid and its magical hydrating properties!

And the latest buzzword in the world of luxe skincare is ‘skin microbiome' – a revolutionary regime of skincare products that do complete justice to the saying, ``beautiful inside and out”—intrigued much? Read on to learn everything you need to know about probiotic skincare products and their surprising benefits in maintaining skin health.

Microbes for Skincare 101

The mere mention of the two words, microbes and skin, is enough to creep out most people (unless you have the Bear Grylls gene). But, once you overcome the initial shock, there's a ton of research that says these friendly guests that live in your gut and on your skin can be the secret weapon against many perplexing skincare problems.

What Is Microbiome?

Much like the good bacteria that live in your gut and make your tummy healthy and happy, microbes living in your skin (yes, they do and not just a few. There are more than a billion bacteria per square centimeter of skin) that have a vital role in your skin health. So, what is a microbiome?

Simply put, the collection of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, yeast) that call your skin (or gut) their home forms a microbiome. But these guests are not freeloaders in any way. They play a vital role in maintaining the proper functioning of the skin. After years of research, scientists can pinpoint specific changes to this microbiome that can completely alter skin properties and cause dryness, chronic adult acne, premature ageing, etc.

How Does Skin Microbiome Ensure Healthy Skin?

Like the good bacteria living in your gut, your skin microbiome is also responsible for maintaining your skin's proper pH, structural and functional stability. Since there's limited space for microbes to attach and grow, when you have good bacteria living on your skin, there's practically no space left for the bad ones to colonize. And as you all know, some of these harmful bacteria cause acne, skin rashes, and a ton of other issues. So, a healthy microbiome is equal to fewer skin problems.

Microbiome Skincare: Latest Shoptalk among Skincare Experts

Even a few years ago, the popular skincare vernacular was all about AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids), BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), and hyaluronic acids. Your Instagram feed was probably buzzing with influencers harping about their magical properties.

Well, over the last few years (thanks to tremendous research in the field of skincare probiotics and microbes), big and scary words like Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus plantarum have become indispensable ingredients in luxury skincare brands! If you are wondering if it’s actually worth memorizing those complex words, we have some very compelling reasons for you.

Read on to find out what are the top benefits of using microbiome-friendly skincare products.

3 Benefits of Switching to a Microbiome-Friendly Skincare Regime

1.Replenishes the Skin with Good Bacteria

When you use probiotic-infused skincare products, it acts in a similar way as probiotics for gut health. They provide the skin with a substantial dose of good bacteria that may be lost due to over-washing, medical conditions etc. In the absence of the good guests, it takes no time for the menacing ones to come and wreak havoc on your skin. So, such skincare products make sure you have enough good bacteria.

2.Stabilizes the Skin Barrier

Many skin issues happen because of disruptions in the normal barrier properties of the skin. But research points out that there are two key players in the microbiome that can reverse the damage. These are - Staphylococcusepidermidis  and  Corynebacterium Kroppenstedtii. Skincare products that contain these helpful bacteria can accelerate skin repair and rejuvenation.

3.Natural Defense Against Acne-Causing Microorganisms

Cutibacterium acnes, a friendly bacterium found in many probiotic skincare products, can regulate sebum production to naturally tackle oily skin issues like acne, clogged pores and blackheads.

As research becomes more advanced, newer, more promising skincare products become the trend every year. However, even amidst all the changing trends, if there's one timeless thing (ask any influencer to vouch for it) is that the best kind of beauty is the one from within!

The age-long debate, whether to puree the cucumber and use it in a face pack or eat it, is a testament to the fact that people have been looking for ways to get flawless skin from within for a very long time.

Microbiome skincare products that contain healthy skin bacteria come closest to the idea of natural wellness. Check out our exclusive range of skincare products @ Purplle and start your skincare journey today!

Checkout the other blog - The best skincare routine for your 30s