How To Balance Your Skin Microbiome To Manage Acne And Ageing
It’s crucial to pay attention to your skin’s delicate ecosystem – and it’s not just about piling on pre- and probiotics skincare
Do a quick Google search and you’ll find a growing number of studies that point to the role of the skin microbiome in keeping skin healthy, in particular, its link to a host of skin issues, from acne to ageing.
Dr Kong Yan Ling, a dermatologist at DS Skin & Wellness Clinic, says the skin microbiome refers to the trillions of microorganisms that live on the skin surface and in the hair follicles – a community of bacteria, viruses, fungi and mites. “Most of these skin microbes are harmless, and may even be beneficial to us. They can promote skin health by preventing infections, communicating with the immune system, participating in skin metabolism, and providing a physical barrier to invading pathogens and environmental assaults.”
She adds that the microbiome is a delicate ecosystem that, when thrown off balance, can result in skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, acne and rosacea.
In addition, Dr Eileen Tan, dermatologist at Eileen Tan Skin Clinic & Associates, shares that each of us has a unique microbiome that can be found in our different organs, including the skin. In fact, scientific literature shows that the concentration and diversity of the microorganisms found on different areas of our face and body differs as well.
“The human skin is divided into moist (the armpits), dry (forearms), and sebaceous or oily (forehead) areas. And although the microorganisms at the various locations are similar, their distribution varies at different body parts. In addition, the density of microorganisms also varies, being lowest in dry parts of the skin,” says Dr Kong.
For instance, cutibacteria is found in abundance in sebaceous areas because it breaks down the fat in sebum, which in turn, produces free fatty acids that promotes adherence of bacteria at these sites. And when there is an imbalance of this bacteria, it may trigger acne woes.
Fortify your skin: These products contain nutrients to keep the microbiome on your face in a state of balance
L’Occitane Immortelle Reset Triphase Essence, $95
Prebiotic fractions from beetroot, along with castor and rapeseed oils, soothe and hydrate skin, while the iconic immortelle essence oil protects against free radicals. Skin is said to be more resilient after seven days.
At sg.loccitane.com
Packed full of probiotics – one billion marine-derived lactobacilli and 250 million Ewha yeast enzymes – the hydrating essence activates skin’s ability to defend itself for a smoother, firmer and glowing complexion.
At Lazada.sg
Prebiotics-powered organic grape water, which contains complex sugars, feed good bacteria, strengthening the microbiome so skin is better able to defend itself.
At Sephora and Sephora.sg
The nourishing night cream contains sustainably sourced Bioorganic ingredients – aloe vera as well as avocado, apricot and mongongo oils – along with probiotics to help with skin repair while you sleep.
At www.net-a-porter.com
Gives skin a big dose of hydration with its electrolyte cocktail of natural moisturising factors (NMF), amino acids, minerals, PCA, urea and sugars, that help improve skin elasticity and resilience.
At Estetica Beauty studios and www.estlab.shop
The updated formula contains pre-, pro- and post-biotics from a fermented dissolution of fresh green tea leaves from Jeju, South Korea. It’s also suitable for acne and trouble-prone skin.
At Lazada.sg
The blend of pre- and probiotics in this powerful serum restores microbiome balance, helps fade post-acne scars, and prevents future breakouts for a clearer complexion.
At Guardian and Watsons
Text: Vanessa Chia/HerWorld