It's a term we hear here and there, but don't always understand. What is the skin microbiome and why is it so important to take care of it? Here's the lowdown. 

The cutaneous microbiome refers to the community of microorganisms living on the surface of human skin (on the skin barrier). It is a complex ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, viruses and other micro-organisms that interact symbiotically with our skin...

What you need to know about the skin microbiome 

1. Composition: The skin microbiome is made up of billions of micro-organisms. Bacteria (good bacteria and bad bacteria) are the most abundant, but fungi (such as yeast), viruses and other micro-organisms are also present. The species that make up the skin microbiome can vary from person to person.

2. Its functions : The cutaneous microbiome fulfills several essential functions. It helps maintain the skin's balance and health by forming a protective barrier against harmful micro-organisms, regulating skin hydration, supporting the cutaneous immune system and participating in lipid metabolism. It ensures healthy skin! 

3. Its balance: A balanced skin microbiome is important for skin health. When the microbiome is out of balance, this can lead to skin problems such as dry skin, atopic dermatitis (atopic eczema), irritation, skin infections and inflammatory disorders like acne and other recurring blemishes. 

4. Factors influencing the skin microbiome: The microbiome or skin flora can be influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, age, gender, personal hygiene, environment, diet, skin cosmetics, external aggressors and medical treatments.

5. Skin microbiome care: To maintain a healthy skin microbiome, it's important to take gentle, balanced care of your skin. This includes using skin care products suited to your skin type, avoiding excessive use of antibiotics or antibacterial products, maintaining good personal hygiene without disturbing the natural balance of the microbiome, and adopting a balanced diet.

Research into the skin microbiome is constantly evolving. A better understanding of its role in skin health opens up new prospects for personalized skin care and the management of skin conditions that previously had no recourse.

Quelle différence entre microbiome et microbiote ? 

You've probably heard of both terms. The microbiome and the microbiota are two closely related terms that refer to slightly different aspects. 

The microbiome

The microbiome refers to the set of genes of microorganisms living in a specific environment. It encompasses all the genes of bacteria, fungi, viruses and other microorganisms present in that environment. Here, the skin microbiome, for example, refers to all the genes of microorganisms living on the surface of the skin.

The microbiota

The microbiota refers to the population of microorganisms themselves that live in a specific environment. These are the bacteria, fungi, viruses and other microorganisms that colonize that environment. Here, cutaneous microbiota refers to the specific micro-organisms that live on the skin's surface.

To put it simply, the microbiome refers to all the genes of micro-organisms, while the microbiota refers to the micro-organisms themselves! 

How do you maintain your skin microbiome? 

As you can see, to promote healthy skin, it's best to maintain your skin's microbiome. But how can you do this? 

Use gentle skin care products: choose skin care products that are gentle and respect the pH of sensitive facial and body skin. Avoid harsh cleansers and products that can upset the balance of the skin microbiome. Opt for gentle cleansers, non-irritating moisturizers, hydrating eye and face serums and products without potentially disruptive ingredients.

Avoid excessive use of topical antibiotics: Topical antibiotics may be necessary in some cases to treat specific skin problems, but excessive use can disrupt the skin microbiome. Use topical antibiotics only when recommended by a healthcare professional and follow their directions.

Évitez les douches trop chaudes et les bains prolongés : L'eau chaude et les bains prolongés peuvent dessécher la peau et altérer l'équilibre du microbiome cutané. Optez pour des douches tièdes et des bains courts pour minimiser l'impact sur votre peau.

Don't forget hydration: Keeping your skin well hydrated is essential for its balance and health. Use a moisturizer suited to your skin type to maintain the skin barrier and help preserve the balance of the microbiome. Also remember to hydrate from the inside out by drinking enough water and eating water-rich foods.

Avoid harsh antibacterial products: Avoid excessive use of harsh antibacterial products such as antibacterial soaps and hydroalcoholic gels. These products can kill off good skin-protecting bacteria as well as bad ones.

Adoptez une alimentation équilibrée : Une alimentation saine et équilibrée contribue à la santé de votre peau et de votre microbiome cutané. Consommez des aliments riches en fibres, en antioxydants et en nutriments essentiels pour nourrir votre peau de l'intérieur.

Manage stress: Stress can have an impact on your skin and skin microbiome. Try to find stress management techniques that work for you, such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing, regular exercise or other relaxing activities.

By following these tips, you can help maintain a balanced skin microbiome and promote healthy skin. Remember that everyone is unique, so it's important to find a routine that suits your own skin and specific needs.