The microbiome is a concept without which it is currently impossible to discuss the proper functioning of the skin. It refers to naturally occurring bacteria, viruses, and fungi on our skin, which determine the health of this organ. A healthy microbiome is a balance between the presence of desirable microorganisms (symbiotic) and undesirable ones (pathogenic). The skin microbiome is responsible for its protective functions - it shields against external factors (e.g., microorganisms). By enhancing communication between immune system cells, it is also jointly responsible for skin regeneration mechanisms. The maintenance of the correct pH of our epidermis largely depends on the microbiome—it should be slightly acidic (pH ~ 5.5). Previous studies have shown that disturbances in the microbiome composition are associated with the risk of many diseases, including allergies, dandruff, common acne, or atopic dermatitis, and may also exacerbate skin symptoms.
There are many reasons for disruptions in our microbiotic flora. Excessive exfoliation (accumulation of acid-like substances in skincare products, too frequent at-home peels), inadequate moisturizing, and excessive cleansing can reduce the amount of "good" bacteria and/or intensify the proliferation of harmful microorganisms. We already know that there is a relationship between the proper functioning of the hydrolipidic barrier in the epidermis and the microbiome. This means that changes in the composition or functioning of one structure lead to abnormalities in the other. That is why it is so important to support the maintenance of balance between individual components in the skin.