Skin Microbiome 101

Your Weekly Prompt to the Science of Skin and Success.

Author

DFPC Team
February 13, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes

Welcome back, DERM Community!

In last week's newsletter, you got to hear one of our Derm Experts share what sparked her passion for dermatology, the challenges she faced breaking into this competitive field, and the essential skills that set top professionals apart. Plus, she debunked a skincare myth you’ve probably believed!

Didn’t get a chance to read it? Find it here

This week we are taking you on a fascinating journey beneath the surface of the skin, where trillions of microorganisms thrive, working quietly to keep us healthy.

For one second, think about your skin as more than just a barrier but a bustling metropolis of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microscopic life. Active. Alive.

Learning Opportunities: The skin microbiome and its role in health and disease

What Is the Skin Microbiome?

The skin microbiome refers to the community of microorganisms that live on and within our skin. It is made up of beneficial, neutral, and even potentially harmful microbes.

Key Roles of the Skin Microbiome:

  • Barrier protection: Beneficial microbes compete with harmful ones to prevent infection. Think about it as a competitive interaction, where the new agents cannot occupy the space that’s already being guarded by the host.

  • Immune regulation: The microbiome communicates with skin immune cells to help maintain balance and reduce inflammation. It also trains the body’s response to harmful bacteria by introducing itself as harmless, making new bacteria easier to recognize.

  • Maintaining skin pH: It helps keep the skin’s surface slightly acidic, deterring harmful bacteria. This is achieved through the production of some organic acids, such as lactic acid, acetic acid and propionic acid.

When Things Go Wrong: Dysbiosis

A balanced microbiome is essential for healthy skin, but this balance can be disrupted.

This disruption is referred to as dysbiosis (usually discussed when talking about the gastrointestinal tract, but present in any system).

This disruption can occur due to:

  • Overuse of harsh soaps or antibiotics

  • Environmental factors like pollution

  • Chronic conditions such as eczema or psoriasis

  • Overapplication of antibacterial gels

Dysbiosis has been linked to various skin conditions, including:

Some tips to protect your skin’s microbiome

Skip Over-Cleansing

Harsh soaps strip beneficial microbes, disrupting the skin's natural barrier.

Use gentle, pH-balanced cleansers; avoid frequent, harsh washing.

Add Probiotics & Prebiotics

Balance gut and skin bacteria, reduce inflammation, and boost hydration.

Probiotics: Eat yogurt & fermented foods. Prebiotics: Use products with inulin.

Limit Antimicrobials

Overuse of antimicrobials harms skin flora and weakens microbial diversity.

Use sanitizers/antimicrobial creams only when needed.

Limit Antimicrobials

Overuse of antimicrobials harms skin flora and weakens microbial diversity.

Use sanitizers/antimicrobial creams only when needed.

Hydrate Your Skin

Hydrated skin supports a healthy microbiome and strengthens the skin barrier.

Apply moisturizers with ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid.

Try Targeted Skincare

Microbiome-friendly products help manage skin conditions like acne and eczema.

Use skincare designed to support the skin microbiome.

Clinician Essentials

  1. Check Microbiome Health in Chronic Conditions: Microbial imbalances often underlie skin issues—consider this in treatment plans.

  2. Educate on Skin-Friendly Habits: Encourage gentle care routines and limit harsh exfoliation.

  3. Stay Ahead with Emerging Therapies: Keep an eye on innovations like topical probiotics and microbiome transplants.

Ready to dive deeper into the connection between the microbiome and skin health?
Our courses unpack the clinical signs of dysbiosis and its role in common skin diseases.

Start your journey here: CE Courses

👋🏻 Until next time, DERM community!


The skin microbiome is revolutionizing how we understand and treat conditions like acne, eczema, and more. Nurturing this invisible ecosystem isn’t just a trend—it’s the future of healthier skin.

P.S. if you're looking to sharpen your physical exam skills (a must-have in dermatology), dive into our Skin Exams Part 1 & Part 2. There’s even a FREE cheat guide included! Happy reading! 🙌🏼

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Together, we’re building meaningful connections with real experts. Let’s keep learning, growing, and making an impact.

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Stay curious, stay inspired, and keep uncovering the science beneath the surface!

— The Derm for Primary Care Team

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