A new trend in the dermocosmetic world is the search for products that keep the skin microbiome in balance. Yet another advertising and marketing gimmick? Absolutely not. Recent studies in dermatology show how a thriving flora of "good" bacteria lives on our skin, helping the skin to protect itself. It is therefore essential to understand if and how the daily beauty routine, from cleansing to skincare, respects the skin microbiome .
Microbiome and microbiota: the hypothesis of a second genome
According to researchers at the University of Oregon and Harvard Medical School in Boston, the skin microbiome can be compared to a fingerprint or a second DNA. The skin microbiome is unique to each individual, but it also differs in relation to the various districts of the skin. However, a distinction must also be made between the microbiome and the skin microbiota. The microbiome indicates the bacterial ecosystem, their genome and all the interactions with the environment that surrounds these microorganisms. The microbiota is, instead, the set of these bacteria considered good that constitute a protective barrier for the skin against external aggressions, infections, redness and inflammation.
What happens if the skin microbiota is altered?
The skin microbiota can be influenced by some variables that characterize the life of each individual such as: age, environmental factors, cosmetic habits or drug intake. A stressful life, hormonal imbalances, dietary irregularities can affect the well-being of the skin microbiota and can favor some pathologies such as atopic dermatitis , acne and psoriasis . For this reason , delicate dermocosmetics that do not interfere with the microbiotic balance must be sought . It almost seems like a paradox but, the dirtier our skin is, the more the well-being of the skin microbiome is guaranteed and protects the skin from external attacks. Should we therefore forget about cosmetic products? Obviously not, the skin needs extra help. It is possible to intervene with prebiotic-based dermocosmetics to re-establish microbial diversity and therefore modify the course of a possible dermatological pathology.
Prebiotics: The New Allies of Your Skincare
Dermocosmetics with prebiotics are one of the best solutions for maintaining the well-being and balance of the microbiome; prebiotics, in fact, are very important plant-based substances because they act as a nutritional source for the good skin bacteria present in the microbiota. Delika , Skinius micellar water , for example, has been formulated with natural prebiotics such as inulin and gluco-oligosaccharides, which help maintain the integrity of the skin microbiome and allow the skin to perform its protective function, limiting redness and irritation. In addition to natural prebiotics, Delika® contains Fospidina complex and cornflower water to offer a precious anti-aging action and a hydrating action : a new generation cosmetic product to help the well-being of the skin microbiome and cleanse even the most sensitive skin without causing irritation.