What Is Microbiome Skincare & Should You Be Doing It? A Derm Explains

E! Illustration/TULA

What is microbiome skincare?

"Microbiome skincare refers to products specifically formulated to support the delicate balance of beneficial microorganisms living on our skin's surface. Think of your skin as a bustling city, and these microscopic inhabitants are its diverse citizens," Dr. Raj said.

Who should implement a microbiome skincare routine?

Dr. Raj said "virtually everyone" can benefit from a microbiome-focused skincare routine, but especially anyone with:

• Sensitive skin
• Dryness
• Redness
• Breakouts
• Uneven texture

"Essentially, if your skin feels out of balance, a microbiome-friendly approach can help restore harmony. It's also an excellent preventative strategy for maintaining healthy, resilient skin long-term, much like a healthy diet supports overall well-being," Dr. Raj shared.

How can prebiotics in skincare help support skin health?

"Prebiotics play an important role in supporting a healthy skin microbiome. They act like fertilizer for the beneficial microorganisms on your skin, allowing them to thrive and outcompete less beneficial ones," Dr. Raj explained.

By feeding these beneficial organisms, prebiotics help:

• Strengthen the skin's natural defenses
• Improve its barrier function
• Reduce inflammation
• Enhance overall resilience

Dr. Raj added, "This leads to skin that looks and feels healthier, calmer, and more balanced. It’s about creating an optimal environment for your skin to flourish."

Dr. Raj recommends starting with: TULA’s Cult Classic Purifying Gel Cleanser and TULA’s 24-7 Moisture Day and Night Cream. These products are formulated with prebiotics and work together to purify and nourish the skin’s microbiome while supporting and strengthening the skin barrier.

Is prebiotic skincare beneficial for acne-prone skin?

"Prebiotic skincare can be incredibly beneficial for acne-prone skin," Dr. Raj explained. "Acne often involves an imbalance in the skin microbiome, with certain microbial communities contributing to inflammation and breakouts. By nurturing the beneficial microorganisms with prebiotics, we can help rebalance the skin's ecosystem. This can lead to reduced inflammation, a stronger skin barrier, and a less hospitable environment for acne-triggering organisms."

What ingredients should shoppers look for in a microbiome-focused skincare routine?

"When building a microbiome-focused routine, look for ingredients that nourish and support the skin's natural ecosystem," Dr. Raj explained, along with more info on the specifics to look for: 

• Prebiotics are key – they act as food for the beneficial inhabitants on your skin, helping them flourish. Ingredients like chicory root extract, colloidal oatmeal, and certain sugars are great examples of prebiotics.
• You also want to look for postbiotics, which are the beneficial byproducts of microbial fermentation and can help soothe and strengthen the skin barrier.
• Ingredients that support a healthy skin barrier, such as ceramides and hyaluronic acid, are also vital, as a strong barrier prevents irritation and helps the microbiome function optimally.

Why do we see more prebiotics in skincare compared to probiotics?

"While the idea of applying live probiotics directly to the skin sounds appealing, there are significant challenges with their stability and efficacy in cosmetic formulations," said Dr. Raj.

• Live probiotic cultures are delicate and require specific conditions to survive and remain active in a product.
• Prebiotics are more stable: they are non-living ingredients that selectively feed the beneficial microorganisms already present on your skin.

Dr. Raj continued, "This approach is more practical and effective for long-term skin health, as it empowers your skin's own resident healthy organisms to thrive naturally. It's like giving your existing healthy garden the best nutrients, rather than trying to introduce new, potentially fragile, plants."

How does the skin microbiome connect with gut health?

"The connection between the gut and skin, often referred to as the 'gut-skin axis,' is a fascinating and increasingly researched area. There's a constant dialogue between the microorganisms in our gut and those on our skin," Dr. Raj said.

"A healthy gut microbiome, rich in diverse and beneficial organisms, can positively influence skin health by reducing systemic inflammation and providing essential nutrients. Conversely, an imbalanced gut can manifest as skin issues. While we apply skincare topically, understanding this internal connection highlights the importance of a holistic approach to skin health, where a balanced diet and gut health support a thriving skin microbiome."

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