Boost Your Skin’s Microbiome: What Works

Hey there, sustainable beauties! Today we’re going to talk about one of the most important yet underrated aspects of skincare – the microbiome! Yes, you heard that right, your skin has its own ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that live in harmony to keep your skin healthy and glowing. And if you want to achieve that coveted glass skin look, you need to give some TLC to your skin’s microbiome. So, let’s dive into the world of microbiome and how to boost it for better skin barrier health.

• • Sulfates – These can be harsh on the skin and strip away natural oils, which can disrupt the skin’s microbiome and weaken the skin barrier.

• • Harsh exfoliants – Over-exfoliating can damage the skin’s natural barrier and disrupt the balance of healthy bacteria on the skin.

• • Fragrance – High percentages or certain types of fragrances can be a common irritant that can cause inflammation and damage the skin’s natural protective barrier.

• • Alcohol – Alcohol can be drying to the skin and disrupt the balance of healthy bacteria on the skin’s surface.

• • Triclosan – This antimicrobial ingredient can disrupt the balance of bacteria on the skin and harm the skin’s natural protective barrier.

• • Essential oils – While natural, some essential oils can be irritating to the skin and disrupt the skin’s microbiome.

What is the microbiome

First things first, what is the skin microbiome? Simply put, it’s a collection of microorganisms that live on the surface of your skin. These tiny critters play a crucial role in maintaining your skin’s health by keeping harmful bacteria at bay and supporting your skin’s natural functions. But, various factors such as stress, pollution, and harsh skincare products can disrupt the balance of your skin’s microbiome, leading to a weakened skin barrier and various skin concerns such as acne, inflammation, and dryness. Microbiomes are an overall important part of your skin health, and it’s important to take steps to ensure that it is healthy and balanced.

How to boost your skin’s Microbiome

So, how can you boost your skin’s microbiome? One word – probiotics! Just like how you take probiotics for your gut health, applying probiotics to your skin can work wonders in restoring the balance of your skin’s microbiome. Look for skincare products that contain probiotics such as lactobacillus, bifidobacterium, and streptococcus thermophilus. These probiotics can help strengthen your skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and improve your skin’s overall texture and appearance.

Another way to boost your skin’s microbiome is by using prebiotics. Prebiotics are essentially food for the good bacteria on your skin. They help nourish and support the growth of beneficial microorganisms, leading to a healthier and happier skin ecosystem. Look for skincare products that contain prebiotic ingredients such as inulin, fructooligosaccharides, and galactooligosaccharides.

Ingredients that Hurt

Now, let’s talk about the ingredients you should avoid if you want to maintain a healthy skin barrier. One of the most common culprits is alcohol. Alcohol is a common ingredient in many skincare products, but it can be extremely drying and irritating to your skin, leading to a weakened skin barrier. Other ingredients to watch out for include fragrances, some types of essential oils, and sulfates. These ingredients can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to a disruption in your skin’s microbiome.

Alcohol: This ingredient can be very drying and irritating to the skin. Look out for products that contain ethanol, denatured alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol.

Fragrance: Synthetic fragrances can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, so it’s best to avoid them altogether. Opt for fragrance-free products instead.

Sulfates: These are commonly found in foaming cleansers and can be very harsh on the skin. Look for sulfate-free options that are gentle and non-stripping.

Ingredients that Help

For products, make sure to use gentle, non-irritating cleansers and moisturizers. Harsh cleansers and moisturizers can strip away the natural oils and bacteria that make up the skin’s microbiome, so it’s important to use products that are specifically designed for sensitive skin. Second, use products that contain prebiotics and probiotics. Prebiotics are ingredients that help to feed the good bacteria on the skin, while probiotics are live bacteria that help to balance the skin’s microbiome.

Prebiotics are substances that feed the beneficial bacteria on your skin, while probiotics are live bacteria that help to rebalance your skin microbiome. Some ingredients to look out for include:

Lactobacillus: This probiotic helps to soothe inflammation and reduce redness, making it great for those with sensitive skin.

Bifidobacterium: This probiotic is perfect for those with dry skin, as it helps to improve hydration and moisture retention.

Inulin: This prebiotic helps to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria on the skin, which can help to strengthen the skin barrier.

Yogurt extract: This ingredient is packed with probiotics and enzymes that can help to exfoliate dead skin cells and improve skin texture.

Finally, make sure to get plenty of sleep and drink plenty of water. Sleep and hydration are essential for maintaining healthy skin barrier health.

Recommendations for you

We recommend our Cactus & Tamaridus HA Serum, which contains probiotics, tamarind seed extract, cactus and, prickly pear extracts, and hyaluronic acid. This is your all-in-one serum for glowing skin!

In conclusion, taking care of your skin’s microbiome is crucial for achieving healthy, glowing skin. Incorporate probiotics and prebiotics into your skincare routine and avoid harsh ingredients that can disrupt your skin’s natural balance. Your skin will thank you for it!