Human skin as a protection
The human skin harbors a dense and highly diverse collection of microorganisms and is the organ most exposed to the external environment. It represents the first line of defense against external chemical and microbial threats. It harbors a microbial habitat that is person-specific and varies considerably across the body surface. Up to one billion bacteria inhabit a square centimeter of skin, however the skin condition directly influences their wellbeing. The acidic skin pH keeps the resident bacteria attached to the skin, whereas the alkaline pH (8–9) promotes the dispersion from the skin. They feed on basic nutrients that are present in sweat and sebum.
Skin provides nutrients and proper environment, like temperature and humidity, that let skin microorganisms grow. In return, these microorganisms prevent the colonization of pathogens, directly and indirectly benefiting the host.
Chronic inflammation, stress, changes in the skin’s pH levels, and your diet, among other factors, can create an imbalance in microbes.
Disruption, imbalance of the normal microbial composition, called dysbiosis, are associated with some skin disorders such as acne, eczema or rosacea.
The growing research suggests that skin care products with emollients, nutrients, prebiotics and postbiotics help get healthy microbes back into balance.
Daily care and the microbiome
Natural, properly selected ingredients of daily cosmetics, protect skin microbiota, considered “a second barrier”: moisturizing, decreasing inflammation, even some bacterial molecules can block UV rays, pollution or reverse their harmful effects.
The daily use of skincare products affects both the facial skin microbial structure and its properties.
A synergic action of proper cosmetics and balanced microbiome may help reduce eczema, acne, dry skin, and even wrinkles and skin cancer risk linked to the UV damage and pollution.
Using this knowledge, ingredients that take care of the skin microbiome are added to Marion products such as intimate hygiene wipes, serums or hand creams.
It is important to adopt a holistic approach to the cosmetic product development and include considerations about the skin microbiome. The increasing availability of advanced technologies will support product innovation and claims substantiation.
