Microbiome Deep Dive: Are You Harming Your Skin Barrier?
In our quest for radiant skin, the spotlight often falls on external factors like skincare treatments and the products we use. However, a pivotal factor in achieving optimal skin health lies within us – our microbiome.
The health of the skin's outer barrier is paramount for maintaining a balanced and resilient complexion. Unfortunately, certain habits and environmental factors can clandestinely sabotage this delicate ecosystem, leading to various skin concerns.
In this post, we delve into how you may unknowingly be putting your microbiome at risk. But have no fear, with the help of our BIOME+ collection, and mindful lifestyle adjustments, your skin can easily get back to balance.
Why Microbiome Maintenance is Essential
The skin barrier acts as an intelligent protective shield, serving as the body's interface with the external environment. Prioritising the health and diversity of our skin's outer layer is crucial to support and preserve our microbiome.
A robust skin barrier safeguards your skin's balance. A resilient microbiome not only retains moisture but also guards against irritants and potential pathogens.
Maintaining a healthy skin barrier is your defense against inflammation and infection, contributing to overall skin health and vitality. Compromising the microbiome can lead to a variety of skin issues.
Modern Life Puts Our Microbiome at Risk
Research indicates a significant decline in bacterial diversity compared to our ancestors, emphasising the necessity for microbiome-conscious skincare.
Modern habits, including diet, excessive hygiene practices, chemicals in the products we use, and limited exposure to nature, have substantially reduced our microbial diversity.
This reduction makes us more vulnerable to skin conditions like dryness, excess sebum production, breakouts, redness, and inflammation.
The Dangers of Neglecting Your Microbiome:
- Increased skin sensitivity and irritation
- Acne and breakouts
- pH level imbalance
- Accelerated ageing
- Healing difficulty
- Reduced radiance
To avoid these negative outcomes, it's essential to adopt a skincare routine that supports the microbiome. This includes using gentle cleansers and avoiding harsh products. Incorporating probiotics and prebiotics into skincare and maintaining overall skin health through a balanced lifestyle and diet.
BIOME+ to The Rescue
Here at IMAGE, we understand the importance of maintaining balance to achieve radiant skin. Formulated to keep the microbiome healthy, our BIOME+ cleanser, creme and serum nourish and protect the skin, naturally. Each product harnesses fermented squalane and hyaluronic acid to enhance skin's moisture barrier while smoothing and refining texture.
BIOME+ Cleansing Comfort Balm:
This skin-nourishing cleanser melts away makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Fermented squalane and plant oils hydrate the skin naturally, while leaving it clean and balanced.
Our hydrating serum leaves skin dewy and radiant. Ideal for dry and sensitive skin types, it deeply moisturises the skin, leaving it with a dewy, lit-from-within glow.
This soothing moisture crème delivers cloud-like hydration, smoothing skin texture and minimising the look of pores.
Microbiome Conscious Habits
In addition to optimising your skincare, mindful lifestyle choices can help maintain your skin's delicate outer layer:
Limit antibiotics: They treat infections, but they may also eliminate beneficial bacteria on the skin. Do your best to keep them at a minimum if possible.
Exfoliate carefully: Too much exfoliation can disrupt the microbiome and compromise the skin barrier. Excessive peels and treatments can do more harm than good, so be mindful of keeping them balanced.
Eat healthfully: Nurture your skin by consuming foods with pre and probiotics. Fermented foods will support your skin's "good" bacteria growth. Bonus? They also improve overall gut health.
Unlocking Your Skin's Radiance and Resilience
As you continue your skincare journey, don't overlook the incredible world within you – your microbiome. By avoiding common saboteurs, adapting your lifestyle, and embracing the BIOME+ collection, you actively support your skin's microbial harmony. Remember, a balanced microbiome is the key to unlocking your skin's natural radiance and resilience.