A Quick Guide to Microbiome Skincare

Oh, hey you! So, we know that ‘the skin microbiome’ sounds pretty scienc-y, but there’s actually a simple explanation behind it. Allow us to serve up some facts.

What is the skin microbiome?

Okay – back to the basics. As the largest organ in the body, our skin acts as an important barrier between the inside and outside of our body. It has a natural lipid barrier that keeps essential things like water in and harmful things like pollution out. Alongside all these incredible things that make our bodies work, the skin also has a microbiome, which has a community of bacteria – both good and bad – living on it. It’s important to have a healthy balance of the two, as good bacteria support skin health, while an overgrowth of harmful bacteria can lead to skin issues.

Why is the skin microbiome important?

This microbiome is important for both the appearance and health of your skin. There are about one million bacteria per square centimetre of skin, with at least 500 different types, all of which help maintain healthy skin.

How to improve your skin’s microbiome

For good skincare that supports your face’s microbiome, you can select products that help strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier, such as formulas with prebiotics and probiotics. Also, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF to protect your skin and microbiome from UV damage.

You can also add these skincare superstars to your routine to keep your skin microbiome feeling great:

Skin barrier enhancers

Niacinamide

Microbiome-friendly and quickly absorbed by the skin, niacinamide enhances skin barrier function by boosting barrier lipids and proteins, which reduces redness and improves hydration. This superstar also has antimicrobial properties, antioxidant effects, plus heaps more. Can’t go wrong.

Ceramides

To restore the skin’s moisture barrier, you can use ingredients that work like its natural components. Ceramides are ideal because they are fatty acids that act like building blocks to support and strengthen the skin. Smart.

Squalane

The skin microbiome loves squalane because it provides deep hydration and helps maintain the skin’s natural barrier. As a lightweight, non-comedogenic oil, squalane moisturises without clogging pores, which helps keep the skin balanced. By preventing moisture loss and reducing dryness, it supports a thriving environment for beneficial bacteria while protecting against irritants and pollutants. We mean, what can’t she do?! Seriously. Vote Squalane for office.

Gentle Cleansers and Moisturisers

Glycerin

Glycerin helps keep the skin hydrated and balanced. It’s a humectant, so it attracts moisture from the air and helps lock it into the skin. This hydration creates a healthy environment for beneficial microbes to thrive while preventing dryness and irritation.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera soothes and hydrates the skin while helping to maintain a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria. Its natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties help protect against harmful microbes and reduce irritation, supporting overall skin health and a thriving microbiome.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid keeps skin super hydrated and happy. By locking in moisture, it helps maintain a healthy skin barrier and supports the good bacteria while keeping the bad guys away (you know, acne-causing bacteria, fungal pathogens or other harmful bacteria). 

Botanical Extracts

Green Tea Extract

Packed with antioxidants, green tea extract helps reduce inflammation and protects the skin from damage, creating a balanced environment that supports beneficial bacteria and keeps harmful ones in check. Thank you for your service.

Chamomile Extract

Known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, chamomile extract helps calm irritated skin and reduces redness. It’s also a pretty delicious tea when in tea-leaf form, too – but you knew that already.

Calendula Extract

Our girl calendula extract is similar to chamomile extract. With its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, calendula extract helps soothe the skin, reduce irritation and promote a healthy skin barrier, creating an environment where beneficial bacteria can thrive and where all the skin baddies need to pay rent!

Bonus tips

It wouldn’t be a happy Sundae guide without some bonus tips! Comin’ right up … 

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Harsh chemicals can disrupt the skin’s natural microbiome by destroying beneficial bacteria or irritating the skin. This can compromise the skin barrier and lead to issues like dryness, inflammation, or an imbalance in the skin’s microbial community.

Maintain pH Balance: The skin’s natural pH is slightly acidic, which helps protect the skin barrier and support beneficial bacteria. Using products that maintain or support this pH balance can help keep the skin microbiome healthy and functioning well.

Stock up on Sundae: Our Shower Foams & Body Whip Moisturisers are suitable microbiome-friendly skincare products – tested and loved by all skin types, including sensitive skin. Time for a bathroom restock? Your skin says yes. 

Happy Sundae x

Written By: Lizzie Waley (Sundae Co-Founder & Body Care Enthusiast) | LinkedIn

Fact Checked: Charnnie Frimpong (Sundae Content Marketing Manager) | Linkedin