Understanding Skin Microbiome: How It Affects Acne, Aging, and Sensitivity?

 Much has been communicated over recent years about the gut microbiome, but did you know that the skin also has one?

The relationship between skin microbiome and health is complex—and current understanding is still at an early stage. However, what is known is that there are significant links between the quality of the microbiome and skin issues, including acne, aging, and sensitivity.

Everything We Know So Far About the Skin Microbiome

• What is the skin microbiome?
• What are the links between the skin microbiome and health?

What is the skin microbiome?

The term, “skin microbiome”, refers to an invisible layer on the skin made up of trillions of healthy bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Far from being detrimental, it plays an enormously important role in skin health, acting as a barrier and protecting against external irritants and toxins.

Like fingerprints, everyone’s skin microbiome is unique. It also differs across the body—some parts have far more organisms than others. The quality is also affected by various other influences, such as diet, age, genetics, and the environment.

What are the links between the skin microbiome and health?

The organisms that make up the community of the microbiome play a significant role in skin health. This includes:

• Helping to modulate the immune system.
• Protection against pathogens.
• Reducing inflammation. 
• Helping with the breakdown of organic matter.

All of this is facilitated by a healthy mix of organisms. When this natural harmony becomes disrupted, it creates a condition known as microbial dysbiosis. Many things can influence the root cause of this, including:

• Disease.
• Genetics.
• Lifestyle.
• The use of harsh topical ingredients.
• Dehydration.
• A disruption in the gut microbiome.

One important takeaway from this is that, while individuals can’t necessarily do much about genetics and existing diseases, action can be taken to address many of the others.

Another fascinating discovery is the proven links between the quality of the microbiome and many common skin issues. Acne, premature aging, and skin sensitivity are all directly affected. As knowledge of the subject increases, dermatologists are beginning to use this to advance treatments and care.

The Importance of Bacteria

• Understanding healthy skin bacteria
• What’s the link between acne and skin microbiome?

Understanding healthy skin bacteria

When it comes to skincare, improving the skin bacteria and elements that make up the microbiome can make a big difference in how the skin looks and feels. Addressing this, perhaps through advanced—yet gentle—treatments, lifestyle changes, UV protection, diet, and more, can have a massively positive effect.

Scientists are unveiling more and more proof that this can have a profound impact on the quality of the skin. 

When it comes to something that affects everyone—aging–a distinct link between probiotics and the typical signs (fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity and plumpness, etc.) has emerged. Many of the latest anti-aging treatments now include probiotic additions, although more time is needed for definitive proof that they are truly beneficial.

Healthy skin bacteria also play a major role in sensitivity. This is linked to aspects, such as inflammation and dryness, often at a microscopic level. If left unchecked, this can progress to more noticeable issues, including increasing skin sensitivity and the likelihood of developing further problems, like intense dryness, rosacea, and other unwanted conditions.

What’s the link between acne and skin microbiome?

Although it’s still in the early stages, scientists believe that a loss of bacterial diversity in the skin microbiome plays a key role in acne development and progression. This triggers an internal immune response, which, in turn, leads to inflammation in the skin follicles.

However, while the link between the two is proving conclusive, how this may or may not change current acne treatment pathways is not yet clear. Time will tell and influence this. But for those seeking treatment, the importance of partnering with a forward-thinking dermatologist is key to ensuring that the latest advances are spearheading your care.

Cutting-Edge Knowledge Underpins Care at Bayou City Dermatology

Optimal human health—which, of course, includes everything to do with the skin and nails—is dynamic. At Bayou City Dermatology, our clinicians are dedicated to this evolution, with constant clinical professional development to ensure that our valued clients get the latest, cutting-edge treatments and care. 

The growing understanding of the skin microbiome is something our dermatologists have been studying for years. This, along with what it means for skin health, anti-aging, acne, and every other skin-related element plays a key role in offering the very best treatment options.

Discover more at https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/services