Neurodermatitis

Microbiome of the skin

Anwendung der Phagen

At up to 2 square meters, the skin is the largest organ in the human body. The microbiome protects the skin from bacteria, viruses and other external influences. But what exactly is the microbiome and what is its function?

Table of contents

What is the skin microbiome?
Which bacteria does the skin need?
How can I build up the microbiome?
What destroys or damages the skin’s microbiome?
Skin conditions with a disorder of the microbiome
Microbiome: Interaction of body region and pH value
Why is a healthy microbiome important?
How do I get a healthy microbiome?
How do you strengthen the microbiome?
Skin care to support the microbiome
Can the microbiome and atopic dermatitis be linked?

What is the skin microbiome?


The microbiome comprises the sum of all microorganisms in the human body and is found not only in the gut, but also on the skin.

The microbiome consists of a large number of different types of bacteria, fungi and viruses, which are also known as microbes. When the skin and the microbiome live together, also known as a symbiosis, they form a protective layer.

We should not be confused by the terms viruses and bacteria, but we must distinguish between “good” and “bad” bacteria and viruses . Because a healthy skin flora or skin microbiome is characterized by a dense, even colonization of “good” bacteria, viruses and fungi. If this balance begins to falter, skin protection may be reduced and the skin damaged. The healthy microbiome ensures that the number of “bad” bacteria, viruses and fungi is kept as low as possible. The total number of bacteria in the human body is around 38 trillion.

Which bacteria does the skin need?

microbiome-of-the-skin-hauflora

The multitude of bacteria on the skin include three main groups: Staphylococci, Propioni bacteria and Coryne bacteria. These are not pathogenic; on the contrary, they are essential for the skin microbiome. Skin bacteria have many important tasks in the body and are vital for humans. These bacteria are needed by the skin to fight off the bad, dangerous germs together. In order to maintain this protective shield, all three groups of bacteria should occur in a natural balance.

How can I build up the microbiome?

Not only the superficial treatment of the skin, for example with SkinCare Plus, can build up the skin’s microbiome, but a probiotic diet also supports the skin’s microbiome. Foods such as yogurts or lactic acid fermented products help the intestinal flora. You can also strengthen the intestinal flora with flea seeds, linseed, wheat bran or black salsify.

What destroys or damages the skin’s microbiome?

The constant disinfection of the hands places a great strain on the skin, which can lead to a shift in the pH value and dehydration of the skin, and thus to a disruption of the skin’s protective barrier. This includes over-washing and over-care of the skin with cosmetics, which attack the skin’s microbiome and destroy the skin’s protective acid mantle. Cortisone (also known as cortisone ) also damages the hair roots if used for too long, but pigmentation disorders or stretch marks can also occur. Acne and rosacea can even be aggravated by the application of cortisone.

Skin conditions with a disorder of the microbiome

The balance of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microorganisms found on the skin is crucial for the health and function of the skin. A disruption of the skin microbiome can lead to various skin conditions.

One of the best-known skin diseases in which the microbiome plays a role is acne. An imbalance in the skin’s microbiome can lead to an excessive proliferation of Propionibacterium acnes, which in turn causes inflammation and pustules.

In eczema, including atopic dermatitis, the skin microbiome is often less diverse, which can lead to dry, itchy and inflamed skin. A healthy microbiome plays a role in maintaining the skin barrier.

An imbalance in the skin microbiome can also cause redness and inflammation in rosacea. Demodex mites, which live on the skin, can also contribute to the development of rosacea.

A healthy skin microbiome can prevent infections. If the balance is disturbed, harmful bacteria or fungi can get out of hand and cause skin infections. It is therefore important to strengthen the skin microbiome.

Microbiome: Interaction of body region and pH value

The human microbiome, the community of microorganisms that colonize our bodies, is a fascinating and complex ecosystem. An important factor that influences the microbiome is the pH value, which describes the acidic or alkaline character of a body region.

Each body region has its own unique pH value, which is determined by the microorganisms living there. For example, the skin is slightly acidic (pH value around 5), which limits the growth of harmful bacteria and maintains the health of the skin. In the intestine, on the other hand, the pH value is neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 7-8) to support the digestive enzymes and the growth of intestinal bacteria.

This interaction between pH value and microbiome is of great importance. If the pH value of a body region is out of balance, this can affect the microbiome and lead to health problems. For example, a vaginal pH that is too acidic can increase the risk of vaginal infections, while an imbalanced gut pH can be linked to digestive problems.

Why is a healthy microbiome important?

The microbiome, the diverse community of microorganisms that colonize our bodies, plays a crucial role in our health and well-being. Here are some reasons why a healthy microbiome is of great importance:

  1. Digestion and nutrient absorption: A balanced gut microbiome contributes to the efficient digestion of food and the absorption of vital nutrients.
  2. Immune system: The microbiome is closely linked to our immune system. A healthy microbiome can help to ward off infections and regulate inflammation.
  3. Healthy skin: A balanced skin microbiome protects against infections, reduces inflammation and helps to maintain healthy skin.
  4. Metabolism: The gut microbiome influences metabolism and can have an impact on body weight and metabolic health.
  5. Mental health: Research suggests that the microbiome may play a role in the regulation of mental health and the development of mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.
  6. Allergies and autoimmune diseases: An imbalanced microbiome has been linked to an increased risk of allergies and autoimmune diseases.
  7. Digestive disorders: A disturbed microbiome can aggravate digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.

Nurturing and maintaining a healthy microbiome requires a balanced diet, adequate fiber, probiotic foods and a healthy lifestyle. Antibiotics and an unbalanced diet can disrupt the microbiome, which is why it is important to protect microbiome health. A healthy microbiome is an essential part of our health and plays a key role in preventing disease and promoting wellbeing.

How do I get a healthy microbiome?

A healthy microbiome can be achieved through a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding antibiotics and reducing stress. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fiber and fermented foods can help promote the diversity and health of gut bacteria. Probiotic supplements and the intake of non-pasteurized sour milk products can also help to support the microbiome. However, it is important to note that each person can react individually to certain foods and supplements and it is therefore best to consult a doctor or nutritionist for a personalized recommendation.

How do you strengthen the microbiome?

There are several ways to strengthen the microbiome:

Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fiber and fermented foods can help promote the diversity and health of gut bacteria.

Probiotics and prebiotics: Probiotic foods such as acidic dairy products and fermented foods, such as kimchi, sauerkraut, and kefir, contain live microorganisms that can support the microbiome. Prebiotic foods, such as fiber, promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut.

Avoid antibiotics: Excessive use of antibiotics can affect the microbiome as they kill both good and bad bacteria. It is therefore important to use them only when they are absolutely necessary.

Reducing stress: Stress has a direct impact on the microbiome and can lead to an imbalance in gut bacteria. Regular relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation and adequate sleep can help to reduce stress and support the microbiome.

Exercise: Regular physical activity can help to promote bowel movements and therefore bowel health.

It is important to note that each person can react individually to certain foods and supplements and it is therefore best to consult a doctor or nutritionist for a personalized recommendation.

Skin care to support the microbiome

  1. Gentle cleansing: Aggressive cleansers and excessive washing can disrupt the skin microbiome. Use mild, soap-free cleansers to preserve the skin’s natural oils.
  2. Moisture: A sufficient supply of moisture is important to strengthen the skin barrier. Choose moisturizers that preserve the skin’s natural moisture and protect it from drying out.
  3. Avoid excessive antibiotics and steroids: Long-term use of antibiotics or steroids can disrupt the skin’s microbiome. Only use this medication as directed by a doctor.
  4. Probiotic skincare: Probiotic skincare products contain live beneficial bacteria that can support the balance of the skin microbiome.
  5. Prebiotics: Prebiotics are substances that promote the growth of healthy microorganisms. Some skin care products contain prebiotics that can strengthen the microbiome.
  6. Balanced diet: A healthy diet rich in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can have a positive effect on the skin microbiome.
  7. Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking: These habits can damage the skin microbiome. Reducing or giving up these habits can promote skin health.
  8. Sun protection: Sunscreens not only protect against UV rays, but can also help to maintain healthy skin. A healthy microbiome can protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun.

Which skin care is suitable for this?

SKINCAREACTIVE is suitable for daily skin care for normal skin and SKINCARESENSITIVE for sensitive skin. With their natural ingredients, they strengthen the skin flora, provide the skin with sufficient moisture and have a nourishing and caring effect.

SKINCARE PROTECT

Probiotic skin protection SkinCare Protect with Phage Technology.
Your skin comes to rest.

  • Immediately soothes itching
  • Reduces redness and prevents inflammation
  • promotes the balance of the skin flora
  • pH neutral, alcohol-free, cortisone-free and sterile – dermatologically tested


Can the microbiome and atopic dermatitis be linked?

There is growing evidence that the microbiome plays a role in the development and progression of atopic dermatitis plays.

Some studies have shown that people with atopic dermatitis have a different composition of their microbiome compared to healthy individuals, in particular a reduced diversity and number of certain bacterial groups. It has also been found that an imbalanced microbiome is associated with an increased inflammatory response and reduced skin barrier function, which can exacerbate the symptoms of atopic dermatitis.

Some approaches to treating atopic dermatitis therefore focus on improving gut health and restoring the microbiome. These include taking probiotics, using prebiotics and changing your diet to promote the diversity and health of the microbiome. However, it is important to note that further studies are needed to confirm the efficacy of these approaches and to identify the optimal dosages and the best probiotic strains.

About the article

Author: Christian Unterlechner, Dipl.-Ing. (FH), MBA

“From our own experience with neurodermatitis – and the long path of suffering associated with skin conditions like this – we started to look for alternative solutions to drug treatments. We are very happy to share the knowledge and experience that has gone into the years of developing our SkinCare products with you.”

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