The Skin Microbiome, what's it all about?

March 26, 2019

Skin Microbiome - the latest findings

Everyone needs to care deeply for their skin. After all, it’s constantly open to all sorts of environmental factors, toxins in the products we use and foods we digest. And for our face, it’s how we are seen by ourselves individually, and by the world as the bigger part of who we are.

Given that our skin is a true insight into our health, it’s only now that researchers are changing their views on the skin and microbiome and questioning whether there is a correlation between skin health and the microbes living in it. Where we once believed our microbiome existed only on the skins surface, or upper layers known as the stratum corneum (it was thought the lower layers were redundant), we now know microbes have been acknowledged right down to the subcutaneous layer of fat.

The surface of the skin is an elaborate and interwoven spaghetti junction of its own, comprising multifaceted systems of microbial communities embedded in structures that make up sebaceous glands and hair follicles. This is where the microbiome and skin immune system communicate with one another and create balance again if things have gone awry!   

If the microbiome is out of sync, this can lead to allergies such as skin ulcers, rosacea, acne, eczema, psoriasis and dandruff of the scalp.

Research is now showing us that the skin and its level of health is attributed to a wide range of factors namely environmental, genetics, climate based, certain lifestyle choices and of course, diet; our own skin microbiota is very specific to us as individuals.  

A big game changer is the use of steroid antibiotics, soaps, hand sanitizers and other skincare products which can affect the skin microbiome. Because soap is primarily designed to clean, it works from an alkalinizing basis but our skin microbiome likes to work at a pH of 5. With soap containing a pH of about 10, the discrepancies are vast which makes the outcome an unfavourable one on the skins tissue.

What else does it do?

The microbiome helps wounds to heal, keeps the skin plump and moist, and cuts down the contact with allergens.

How can I help my skin be the best it can be?

We are avid believers of skin repair through skin nutrition, this means inner and outer skin and body  health are vitally important in keeping your skin at optimum balance.

Our new Verite Spa Phyto + range  is specifically formulated with the power of phytobotanical skin bioactives to protect, balance, destress and heal the skin and mind.

1. Eat healthy, avoid toxic chemicals and stay hydrated

You are what you eat. Eat organic if you can; ensure you add plenty of fruit and veg into your daily meals (9 cups is ideal!). Incorporate some healthy fats , such as avocado, coconut and olive oil and and drink lots of water. 

2. Remove toxic chemicals from your home and your life

Toxins clog up the body’s system. Use natural and organic alternatives to replace your skincare and homecare products.  You won’t look back after opting for a cleaner variety!

3. Get a sweat on and keep stress levels down

Stress reveals itself on the skin very quickly hence the appearance of eczema and acne at times of upset or when the body and mind is being tested. Try a work out to get your sweat glands working, a yoga session or meditation to relax, read a book, take a bath or immerse yourself in nature for an inner-outer detox.

by: Kate Marshall

 

 

 

 

 

 

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