Although research is ongoing, the evidence collected so far points to the skin microbiome playing a major role in maintaining healthy skin. Similar to the microorganisms in our gut, skin microorganisms have essential roles in protecting against invading pathogens, the education of our immune system and the metabolism of natural products.,, As the largest organ of the human body, skin is colonized by beneficial microorganisms (“commensals”) that serve to protect against the invasion of pathogenic microorganisms. In circumstances where the skin’s barrier function has been disrupted or when the balance between commensals and pathogens is disturbed, skin disease or even systemic disease can result.[1][7][8]

We are on the verge of a major wave of new products designed to support a healthy microbiome. Between 2016 and 2020, the number of products referencing prebiotics and probiotics dramatically increased. References to the “microbiome” have begun to grow. According to Mintel GNPD, the first half of 2020 saw more launches referencing “microbiome” than all of 2018. The industry has taken note of the growing body of scientific evidence that links a healthy microbiome to optimal skin health. The science is so significant that we believe that in the next five years, all new skincare products entering the market will be gentle to the skin microbiome, and in some cases may even support the diversity of commensals within the microbiome.

The microbiome and its integral connection to both our overall health and the health of our skin is one of the most promising areas of skincare research right now. We believe that creating formulations that are gentle to the skin microbiome will be the forefront of a new generation of skincare products that will help to bolster overall skin health.