The skin microbiome is a concept that has been appearing increasingly frequently in dermatologists' offices, scientific publications, and cosmetic labels in recent years. And with good reason – research shows that what we recently considered an "invisible layer of bacteria" actually plays a crucial role in maintaining the health, immunity, and beauty of skin.
Why has the skin microbiome become one of the hottest trends in cosmetology right now? The answer is simple: there's a growing awareness that the balance of microorganisms on our skin affects not only our complexion but also our overall health. When the microbiome functions properly, the skin is less susceptible to irritation, regenerates faster, and defends itself better against pathogens. When this balance is disturbed, problems arise: acne, dryness, eczema, and hypersensitivity.
Moreover, the skin microbiome is linked to immunity and the aging process – it supports the skin's protective barrier , regulates pH, and protects against free radicals and inflammation. It's no wonder that modern cosmetology increasingly uses ingredients such as these, not to "fight" microorganisms but to support their natural balance .
In this article, I answer all the questions my clients most frequently ask: what the skin microbiome is, how it works, what weakens it, and how we can rebuild it. I'll also share tips on which cosmetics support the microbiome in daily skincare and why caring for the microbiome is the future of healthy and natural beauty.
What is the skin microbiome?
The skin microbiome is an incredibly complex ecosystem of microorganisms that inhabit our skin—bacteria, fungi, viruses, and mites. Every square centimeter of skin is home to millions of microbes that contribute to our natural protective barrier . Their role isn't simply to "be present," but to actively support skin health, immunity, and biological balance.
The composition of the skin microbiome – numbers and facts
It is estimated that there are up to 1 billion microorganisms per cm² on the surface of human skin (Grice & Segre, Nature Reviews Microbiology, 2011 ).
The skin microbiome consists of several hundred species of bacteria, the most common of which are:
- Staphylococcus epidermidis (commensal bacterium, supports skin immunity),
- Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes – in balance it supports the skin, in excess it leads to acne),
- Corynebacterium (involved in skin lipid metabolism).
In addition to bacteria, the microbiome also includes over 80 species of fungi , including Malassezia yeasts, which naturally inhabit the skin, but in excess can lead to dandruff or atopic dermatitis ( Findley et al., PNAS, 2013 ).
Skin is the largest human organ, occupying an average surface area of 1.5–2 m² and weighing approximately 16% of body weight. This means that the skin microbiome is one of the most extensive ecosystems in the human body.
Skin microbiome diversity
The microbiome is not homogeneous - its composition varies depending on its location on the body.
- In moist places (e.g. armpits, groin) bacteria of the genera Corynebacterium and Staphylococcus predominate.
- In oily areas (e.g. facial skin, back) we more often encounter Cutibacterium acnes.
- Dry surfaces (e.g. forearms, hands) contain the greatest diversity of microorganisms.
Studies have shown that the diversity of the skin microbiome is key to its health - the more diverse the ecosystem, the more effective the protection against pathogens and the lower the risk of skin diseases.
Is everyone's skin microbiome the same?
No. The microbiome is as unique as a fingerprint. Its composition is influenced by:
- age (a child's microbiome differs from an adult's microbiome),
- sex,
- genetics,
- diet and lifestyle,
- cosmetics and medicines used.
For example, research in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2017) found that in older adults, the number of beneficial bacteria decreases and opportunistic pathogens increases, which correlates with a weakened skin barrier and increased skin dryness.
How does the skin microbiome work?
The skin microbiome is not just an "invisible layer of bacteria," but an active system that serves as a guardian of skin balance . Its function can be divided into several key mechanisms:
Protection against pathogens
The skin microbiome acts as a natural immune shield , occupying space and utilizing nutrients that could otherwise be used by pathogenic bacteria, thus preventing their overgrowth.
Commensal bacteria, e.g. Staphylococcus epidermidis, produce antibacterial substances (including antimicrobial peptides) that inhibit the growth of pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus.
According to research from Nature (2018), the presence of a healthy microbiome reduces the risk of skin colonization by MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus).
Strengthening the hydrolipid barrier
Microorganisms co-create the skin's protective acidic mantle – they maintain the skin's pH in the range of 4.5–5.5 , which promotes the proper functioning of the hydrolipid barrier.
Skin bacteria break down sebum and produce fatty acids that support the elasticity of the epidermis and protect against dryness.
Research in the Journal of Dermatological Science (2016) showed that microbiome disruption leads to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which results in dryness and susceptibility to irritation.
Regulation of skin immunity
The skin microbiome works in close cooperation with the immune system. Commensal bacteria activate Langerhans cells in the epidermis, which recognize and neutralize pathogens.
Studies on animal models (Belkaid & Segre, Science, 2014 ) have shown that the skin microbiome regulates the production of cytokines – substances that control inflammatory responses. This means that a healthy microbiome reduces the risk of chronic inflammatory conditions such as eczema and rosacea.
Impact on skin aging
With age, the composition of the microbiome changes – the number of protective bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis) decreases and the share of opportunistic pathogens increases.
According to research from mSphere (2019), in people over 60 years of age, there is a decrease in microbiome diversity by approximately 25–30% compared to the skin of young adults.
The result is greater susceptibility to inflammation, slower wound healing and increased skin dryness – processes typical of skin aging.
Microbiome and oxidative stress
The microbiome neutralizes some of the free radicals that damage DNA and proteins in skin cells. Cutibacterium acnes produces healthy amounts of propionic acid, which has antioxidant properties.
In turn, an imbalance leads to the overproduction of free radicals and the activation of collagen-degrading enzymes, which accelerates the formation of wrinkles.
Remember: the skin microbiome acts as a guardian, protecting against infections, strengthening the barrier, regulating immunity, and slowing the aging process. That's why, in the following chapters, it's worth focusing on how easily it can be weakened and how to effectively support it through skincare and lifestyle.
Skin microbiome disorders – causes and effects
The skin microbiome is a delicate ecosystem – the balance between protective and pathogenic bacteria can easily be disrupted. In dermatology, this is referred to as dysbiosis , a condition in which beneficial microorganisms are weakened and pathogenic ones begin to dominate.
How can cosmetics weaken the microbiome?
Using cosmetics with strong detergents (e.g., SLS, SLES) removes not only dirt and sebum but also natural lipids and beneficial bacteria. This applies not only to facial skin but also to the scalp!
Research from the International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2017) showed that SLS gels can increase TEWL (transepidermal water loss) by 40% after just 2 weeks of use, which promotes microbiome disruption.
Too frequent use of antibacterial cosmetics (soaps, hand gels with alcohol) reduces the number of commensal bacteria, which opens the way for skin colonization by pathogens.
The effect of antibiotics and dermatological drugs
Oral antibiotics (e.g. those used to treat acne) affect not only the intestinal but also the skin microbiome, reducing the population of Cutibacterium acnes.
While this reduces acne symptoms in the short term, research ( JAMA Dermatology, 2016) shows that over 30% of patients experience flare-ups later due to an imbalance in the microbiome.
Topical corticosteroids also alter the composition of the microbiome – they reduce diversity, which can lead to skin colonization by Candida fungi and Malassezia yeasts.
Diet, stress and lifestyle
A diet high in simple sugars and dairy products correlates with skin dysbiosis and acne severity (Burris et al., Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 2017).
Mental stress increases cortisol levels, which lowers the number of protective bacteria (Frontiers in Microbiology, 2018 ).
Lack of sleep and circadian rhythm leads to disruption of the skin barrier – clinical studies have shown that people who sleep less than 5 hours a day have a 30% higher TEWL level, which promotes dysbiosis and irritation ( Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2015).
Skin aging and the microbiome
Microbiome diversity declines with age – in people over 60, it is as much as 25–30% lower than in younger individuals ( mSphere, 2019 ). The proportion of beneficial bacteria (S. epidermidis) decreases, while the presence of opportunistic pathogens (S. aureus) increases.
This partly explains why older skin is more susceptible to infection, dryness, inflammation and is more difficult to regenerate.
Effects of dysbiosis – how does a microbiome disorder manifest itself?
Acne – excessive growth of Cutibacterium acnes in conditions of dysbiosis leads to inflammation of the hair follicles.
Eczema and atopic dermatitis – studies show that in 90% of people with atopic dermatitis, S. aureus predominates, while in healthy skin S. epidermidis predominates ( Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2017 ).
Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis – the result of excessive colonization by fungi of the Malassezia genus.
Accelerated skin aging – dysbiosis causes increased oxidative stress, degradation of collagen and elastin, and thus faster appearance of wrinkles.
Remember: disruptions to the skin microbiome (dysbiosis) have many causes—from cosmetics and medications, through diet and stress, to aging. The effects are visible to the naked eye: acne, eczema, dryness, and irritation. Therefore, supporting the microbiome with appropriate skincare and lifestyle is crucial.
Symptoms of skin microbiome disorders
Microbiome disorders, or skin dysbiosis, aren't always easy to recognize at first glance. However, dermatological research shows that there are several characteristic symptoms that may indicate that the natural balance of microorganisms on our skin has been disrupted.
Hypersensitive and dry skin
Dysbiosis leads to a weakening of the hydrolipid barrier , resulting in excessive transepidermal water loss (TEWL). According to a study published in the Journal of Dermatological Science (2016) , TEWL was on average 40% higher in people with a disturbed microbiome than in those with healthy skin.
Symptoms: feeling of tightness, burning after using cosmetics, easy reaction to temperature changes or dry air.
Acne and imperfections
An imbalance between protective bacteria (S. epidermidis) and Cutibacterium acnes can lead to inflammatory lesions. Studies have shown that C. acnes levels were up to 10 times higher in people with acne than in people with healthy skin (Journal of Clinical Microbiology, 2013 ).
Symptoms: pimples, inflammatory papules, open and closed comedones, inflammation of the skin of the face and back.
Eczema and atopic dermatitis (AD)
In patients with atopic dermatitis , the predominance of pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus is very often observed. A study from the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (2017) shows that as many as 90% of patients with atopic dermatitis had a predominance of skin colonization by S. aureus, while in healthy skin S. epidermidis predominates.
Symptoms: itching, redness, peeling, micro-cracks of the skin, as well as chronic inflammation.
Skin prone to irritation
Skin with a disturbed microbiome reacts more easily to irritating factors such as hard water, air conditioning, temperature changes, detergents and even natural essential oils.
Symptoms: frequent redness, erythema, burning, allergic reactions after using cosmetics that previously did not cause problems.
Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis
Dysbiosis of the scalp microbiome leads to the overgrowth of Malassezia fungi. A study in Medical Mycology (2014) found that people with dandruff had more than 1.5 times the density of Malassezia colonies compared to healthy individuals.
Symptoms: white or yellow scales on the scalp, itching, sometimes inflammation.
Accelerated skin aging
Dysbiosis contributes to increased oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Research from mSphere (2019) has shown that microbiome diversity declines by 25–30% in older adults, which is associated with loss of skin elasticity and slower wound healing.
Symptoms: increased wrinkles, dryness, loss of firmness, dull skin tone.
Remember: Skin dysbiosis manifests itself primarily through hypersensitivity, dryness, acne, eczema, dandruff, and accelerated aging. If you notice these symptoms, it's worth using cosmetics that support the microbiome and modifying your lifestyle to restore balance to the skin's ecosystem.
How to support the skin microbiome in skincare?
Effective microbiome care involves using cosmetics that don't damage the hydrolipid barrier, support natural microorganisms, and help maintain pH balance. Gentle cleansing formulas and moisturizing and regenerating products are key.
Soothing facial cleansing gel Date + Inulin + Green Tea
This gel has been specially developed to gently cleanse the skin without disturbing its microbiome.
How does Orientana Soothing Facial Cleansing Gel support the skin microbiome?
Contains inulin – a natural prebiotic that “feeds” good bacteria and helps maintain microbiological balance.
Instead of strong detergents, it is based on mild cleansing agents of plant origin (glucosides, betaine), so it does not disturb the skin's protective barrier.
Date extract nourishes and moisturizes, while green tea provides polyphenols with antioxidant properties, protecting the skin from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Application studies conducted on cosmetics of this type have shown that the use of mild cleansing gels with the addition of prebiotics can reduce TEWL by up to 20% within 4 weeks compared to classic gels with SLS.
How to use:
- Morning and evening as the first step of care.
- Apply to damp skin, massage gently and rinse with lukewarm water.
- Perfectly prepares the skin for further steps – e.g. toning.
Moisturizing tonic-essence with gluconolactone, rice proteins and dates
This tonic-essence combines toning, moisturizing and gentle exfoliation – it helps the skin maintain its biological balance.
How does Orientana moisturizing tonic-essence support the skin microbiome?
It contains gluconolactone (PHA), a large molecular weight acid that works gently without disrupting the hydrolipid barrier or causing severe irritation. Clinical studies have shown that PHA not only exfoliates but also acts as an antioxidant and humectant, improving skin hydration by up to 15–20% after three weeks of use (Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2014).
Regular use supports the balance of the microbiome by eliminating excess dead skin cells that could become a breeding ground for pathogens.
The formula based on moisturizing and regenerating ingredients (rice proteins) improves the condition of the protective barrier, and well-hydrated skin better maintains a healthy microbiome.
How to use:
- After cleansing the skin (e.g. with date and inulin gel).
- Apply with your hands, gently patting into the face, neck and décolleté.
- Can be used every evening, even on sensitive skin.
A skincare routine that supports the skin microbiome
Step 1: Cleansing
Soothing facial cleansing gel Date + Inulin + Green Tea
The first and most important step in microbiome-supporting skincare is gentle cleansing. Orientana's soothing gel removes impurities, sebum, and dirt without disrupting the skin's hydrolipid barrier. The inulin it contains acts as a prebiotic, a breeding ground for "good" bacteria that support natural microbial balance. This leaves skin clean, fresh, and prepared for the next steps, while maintaining the microbiome's stability. Of course, if you use makeup or creams with SPF, remove your makeup with a makeup removal oil before cleansing with the gel.
Step 2: Toning and moisturizing
Moisturizing tonic-essence with gluconolactone
The second step is to restore the skin's proper pH, hydrate, and gently regenerate. The tonic-essence with gluconolactone not only intensely moisturizes but also gently exfoliates dead skin cells, preventing the buildup of a layer that promotes the proliferation of pathogens . At the same time, it supports the rebuilding of the protective barrier and creates an optimal environment for a healthy microbiome. Regular use of the tonic helps maintain skin's good condition and increases the effectiveness of subsequent cosmetics.
Step 3: Serum – protecting and strengthening the skin barrier before applying the cream
The final step in the routine is the application of a serum, preferably enriched with ceramides (Reishi Serum and Ceramides), adaptogens ( Serum Ampoules ), or natural plant oils. Their function is to lock in moisture within the epidermis, protect against water loss, and strengthen the hydrolipid barrier. This ensures the cleansing and toning effects are maintained, providing the microbiome with a stable environment for proper functioning. It is at this stage that we determine whether our skincare regimen will be truly effective and long-term support the skin's natural balance.
Thanks to this type of care, the skin's microbiome gains optimal conditions for functioning – the skin becomes less susceptible to irritation, regenerates faster, and looks better. After protecting the microbiome, you can apply any cream of your choice .
Hydrolipid layer and microbiome – are they the same?
Although these terms are often used interchangeably, the hydrolipid film and the skin microbiome are two different but closely related components of the skin's protective system.
What is a hydrolipid layer?
The hydrolipid layer is a thin protective film covering the surface of the epidermis. It consists of:
- water (from sweat and body fluids),
- lipids (sebum secreted by the sebaceous glands),
- natural moisturizing factor (NMF) – a mixture of amino acids, urea and lactic acid.
Its main tasks are:
- preventing excessive water loss (TEWL),
- protection against external factors,
- maintaining a slightly acidic skin pH (approx. 4.5–5.5).
The microbiome, on the other hand, is the collection of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses, and mites) that inhabit the skin's surface. Unlike the hydrolipid layer, the microbiome is not a physical structure but a living ecosystem that interacts with our body.
How does the hydrolipid layer interact with the microbiome?
The hydrolipid layer provides the appropriate environment (humidity, lipids, pH) in which the microbiome can function properly.
The acidic pH of this layer promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria (e.g. Staphylococcus epidermidis) and inhibits the multiplication of pathogens (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus).
In turn, the microbiome strengthens the hydrolipid layer – commensal bacteria produce fatty acids and antibacterial peptides that stabilize its composition.
Differences at a glance
- Hydrolipid layer = chemical-physical barrier of the skin (water-lipid film).
- Skin microbiome = biological barrier created by living microorganisms.
So we can say that these two elements are not the same, but They complement each other. A healthy hydrolipid film supports the microbiome, and a balanced microbiome strengthens the hydrolipid film.
Therefore, effective care should always take care of both elements simultaneously – gentle cleansing, maintaining the appropriate pH, moisturizing and avoiding aggressive detergents help maintain harmony between the hydrolipid layer and the microbiome.
Diet and lifestyle to support the skin microbiome
External care is only part of maintaining a healthy microbiome. A growing body of research indicates that diet, sleep, stress, and physical activity significantly influence the balance of microorganisms inhabiting our skin.
The role of probiotics and fermented foods
Fermented products such as kefir, natural yogurt, kimchi or sauerkraut are rich in probiotics that support the gut microbiome and indirectly affect the skin microbiome.
According to research published in Beneficial Microbes (2015) , regular consumption of fermented dairy products reduces the risk of skin inflammation by approximately 20–25%.
Probiotics stimulate the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which strengthen immunity and reduce pro-inflammatory activity, resulting in healthier skin.
A diet rich in fiber and antioxidants
Dietary fiber is a prebiotic - it nourishes beneficial intestinal bacteria, and their metabolites support skin immunity.
A diet low in fiber is associated with a decrease in microbiome diversity – research from Nature (2016) showed that people on a highly processed diet had up to 30% poorer gut microbiome, which also negatively correlates with skin condition.
Antioxidants (vitamin C, E, polyphenols from berries, green tea, vegetables) neutralize free radicals, supporting the protective role of the skin microbiome.
How do stress and sleep affect the microbiome?
Chronic stress leads to increased cortisol levels, which negatively impacts the diversity of the microbiome.
Sleep is crucial – people who sleep less than 5 hours a night have a 30% higher level of TEWL (transepidermal water loss), which promotes dysbiosis and dry skin ( Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2015).
Physical activity and the skin microbiome
Regular exercise improves blood circulation and therefore the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the skin.
Research from Gut Microbes (2019) has shown that moderate physical activity increases gut microbiome diversity by 15–20%, which also translates to better skin balance. Exercise also lowers cortisol levels, which aids in skin regeneration and supports skin immunity.
Remember: a healthy diet rich in probiotics, fiber, and antioxidants, regular sleep, stress reduction, and moderate physical activity are key lifestyle elements that support the skin's microbiome. These factors help skincare products work more effectively and skin maintain its healthy appearance and resilience for longer.
Skin Microbiome FAQs (Q&A)
What exactly is the skin microbiome?
The skin microbiome is a collection of billions of microorganisms – mainly bacteria, fungi and viruses – that naturally live on our skin and serve a protective function.
Are the skin microbiome and the hydrolipid layer the same?
No. The hydrolipid layer is a water-fat film, and the microbiome is made up of living microorganisms. The two elements work closely together.
What are the most important functions of the skin microbiome?
It protects against pathogens, regulates skin pH, supports immunity, prevents excessive inflammation and helps maintain the balance of the skin barrier.
How to recognize skin microbiome disorders?
Symptoms include dryness, hypersensitivity, acne, eczema, dandruff and frequent irritations.
What causes microbiome disruption?
The most common causes are strong detergents in cosmetics, antibiotics, stress, poor diet, lack of sleep and the natural aging processes of the skin.
Can the skin microbiome be restored?
Yes. Regular use of gentle cosmetics that support the microbiome (e.g., with prebiotics, mild acids, humectants), a healthy diet, and stress reduction help restore balance.
How long does it take for the skin microbiome to regenerate?
The first effects can be seen after just a few weeks, but full regeneration may take from 1 to 3 months – depending on the degree of disturbance and care.
Is the skin microbiome different in children and adults?
Yes. Newborns' skin is colonized by different bacteria than adults. The composition of the microbiome changes with age, and after the age of 60, its diversity declines by as much as 25–30%.
Does the skin microbiome affect body odor?
Yes. Bacteria break down lipids and sweat, which influences the individual scent of your skin—it's as unique as a fingerprint.
How does diet affect the skin microbiome?
A diet rich in fiber, probiotics, and antioxidants supports a balanced microbiome. Excess sugar and dairy, on the other hand, promote acne and inflammation.
Does the skin microbiome protect against aging?
Yes. A balanced microbiome reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, which accelerate the aging process.
Does frequent hand washing damage the skin microbiome?
Yes, especially when using antibacterial gels and soaps containing alcohol. Therefore, it's worth using gentle cleansers and moisturizing creams.
Do natural cosmetics support the microbiome?
Definitely yes – especially those based on gentle cleansing agents, plant prebiotics and moisturizing ingredients.
Does the skin microbiome change depending on the part of the body?
Yes. Oily areas (face, back) have different bacteria than moist areas (armpits, groin) or dry areas (forearms).
Which cosmetic ingredients are most microbiome-friendly?
Prebiotics (e.g. inulin), mild PHA acids (e.g. gluconolactone), ceramides, glycerin, aloe, plant extracts – support the balance and reconstruction of the protective barrier.
Cosmetologist's advice - why is it worth taking care of the skin microbiome?
The skin microbiome is not just a trendy term in cosmetology, but above all, it provides real protection against irritation, inflammation, and premature aging . It acts as an "invisible shield" that supports skin immunity, protects against pathogens, and helps maintain a healthy hydrolipid barrier.
Research shows that microbiome disruptions (dysbiosis) lead to numerous dermatological problems , from acne and eczema, through dryness and hypersensitivity, to accelerated skin aging. Fortunately, with conscious skincare and a healthy lifestyle, you can effectively support your microbiome and restore its balance.
The most important rules are:
- a selection of gentle cosmetics that support the microbiome,
- avoiding aggressive detergents and excess antibacterial agents,
- taking care of a diet rich in probiotics, fiber and antioxidants,
- taking care of regular sleep, stress reduction and physical activity.
Choose microbiome-supporting care from Orientana
If you want your skin to be healthy, resilient and radiant, choose cosmetics that work in harmony with its natural microbiome:
- Soothing facial wash gel Date + Inulin + Green Tea - gentle cleansing and support for beneficial bacteria thanks to inulin.
- Moisturizing tonic-essence with gluconolactone - hydration, gentle regeneration and a better environment for the skin microbiome.
Take care of your microbiome balance every day – your skin will reward you with a healthy appearance, less sensitivity, and a natural glow.
Want to learn more? Check it out here .
