What is the skin microbiome?
The skin microbiome is the collection of microorganisms that live on your skin, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. There are thousands of species present, forming a complex ecosystem that plays an important role in skin health. [1]
These microorganisms interact with your skin’s natural oils, moisture, and salts. When the microbiome is balanced, it helps support the skin barrier, protect against environmental stress, and maintain overall comfort.
Like any ecosystem, balance matters.
Beneficial bacteria and skin health
Bacteria often get a bad reputation, but many strains are essential to healthy skin. Beneficial microbes help defend against environmental stressors like pollution, wind, and temperature changes by supporting the skin’s natural barrier function.
When the skin barrier and microbiome work together, skin is better equipped to stay calm, resilient, and balanced.
Disruptions to this system can make skin feel more reactive or uncomfortable.
Restoring your skin microbiome
Now that we’ve sung the praises of our microbial allies, let’s talk about keeping them in harmony. The magic word here is balance.
An imbalance in the skin's healthy bacteria manifests in problems like redness, flaking, itching and dryness. Here are some simple tips to help keep your skin microbiome in tip-top shape.
When the skin microbiome feels out of balance
An imbalanced microbiome can show up in different ways, including redness, dryness, flaking, itching, or increased sensitivity. These signs are often the skin’s way of asking for more support, not stronger treatments.
Restoring balance usually starts with gentler care.
How to support a healthy skin microbiome
Keep cleansing gentle
Over-cleansing, harsh surfactants, and frequent exfoliation can disrupt the skin’s natural microbial balance. Gentle cleansing helps maintain moisture while respecting the microbiome. [2]
Think of it as supporting the ecosystem rather than stripping it down.
Understand skin pH
Healthy skin maintains a slightly acidic pH, typically around 5. This environment helps beneficial microbes thrive while discouraging less helpful ones. [3]
Many traditional soaps are more alkaline, which can disrupt this balance. Choosing pH-compatible skincare helps support both the microbiome and the skin barrier.
Support gut health
The gut and skin are closely connected. Diet, hydration, and overall wellness can influence how skin behaves and feels.
Eating whole foods, staying hydrated, and supporting gut health can have a positive ripple effect on skin comfort and balance.
Why the skin microbiome matters
Research into the skin microbiome is still evolving, but one thing is clear. A healthy microbiome plays a meaningful role in skin comfort, resilience, and long-term skin health.
Supporting this system doesn’t require complicated routines. Gentle care, balanced formulations, and consistency go a long way.
When the skin’s ecosystem is supported, skin is more likely to look and feel its best.
References:
- Grice EA, Segre JA. The skin microbiome. Nat Rev Microbiol. 2011;9(4):244–253. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrmicro2537
- Byrd AL, Belkaid Y, Segre JA. The human skin microbiome. Nat Rev Microbiol. 2018;16(3):143–155. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrmicro.2017.157
- Lambers H, Piessens S, Bloem A, Pronk H, Finkel P. Natural skin surface pH is on average below 5, which is beneficial for its resident flora. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2006;28(5):359–370. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-2494.2006.00344.x