Skip to main content
Skincare

What is a skin microbiome and why is it important?

What is a skin microbiome and why is it important?
Jo Hoare
Writer and expert1 year ago
View Jo Hoare's profile

What is a skin microbiome and why is it important?

Skincare language can be confusing; we know it’s hard not to get bogged down and overwhelmed by ingredients and science, but some things are worth knowing about. Take the skin microbiome - key to a healthy complexion and so important Super Facialist have launched a whole new range around it!

A collection of five highly targeted skin-loving solutions, Clear Skin offers products that tackle blemishes and imperfections whilst still keeping your skin barrier, or skin microbiome, calm, healthy and happy.

What is a skin microbiome?

Our skin microbiome essentially works to protect our skin and keep it healthy; it’s made up of millions of bacteria, fungi and other microbes (a lot less gross than it sounds we promise!) and it works constantly to make sure our skin is protected against any external invaders – such as infection or pollution. Think of it as your skins first line of defence.

It is also key in repairing skin after any injury or inflammation and helps limit damage from UV rays and allergens. It’s one hard-working part of our bodies.

What happens if your skin microbiome gets compromised?

If our skin microbiome becomes unbalanced because of diet, medications (including antibiotics,) stress, illness or even using the wrong products then it can lead to skin becoming less than optimal. Rosacea, acne, psoriasis, premature skin ageing and eczema can all be exacerbated or even caused by an imbalanced skin microbiome, so it’s super important to keep it happy and healthy.

How do I look after my microbiome?

Just as they can help the flora and fauna in your tummy if you eat or drink them, prebiotics in your skincare can help feed the healthy bacteria and support your skin microbiome. The Super Facialist Clear Skin range harnesses the power of gentle prebiotics that help preserve and protect your skin barrier. Extracted from chicory roots our prebiotics reduce skin sensitivity, help with inflammation and irritation, plus can aid in re-balancing an upset microbiome.

Niacinamide is another hero ingredient to look out for if you’re worried you might have damaged your microbiome. Known for its anti-inflammatory effects and calming properties, if you’re seeing redness or feeling irritation this could help. The Skin Clear collection contains up to 10% niacinamide to help strengthen and soothe your skin barrier as well as boosting cell production and repair, so you’re in safe hands.

What’s an easy skin microbiome loving routine for blemish busting?

Choose your anti acne options carefully. If you think you’re suffering from a compromised barrier, it’s tempting to choose harsh astringent options - but you need to ensure you don’t strip your already delicate skin.

FOR EVERYDAY CLEANSING

You need a face wash that cleanses and refreshes oily skin without being too harsh or stripping. Reach for Super Facialist Pore Clarity Daily Exfoliator which is gentle enough for daily use.

FOR DAILY MOISTURE Moisturiser is key to maintaining or repairing your skin microbiome so reach for the Super Facialist Pore-Fect Daily Moisturiser. This provides enough hydration to ensure skin stays supple and comfortable, but also works to keep oiliness under control.

FOR FREQUENT BREAKOUTSSuper Facialist Breakout Buster Serum is strong enough to tackle existing blemishes and help stop new ones rearing their ugly heads; it also acts to build or rebuild a healthy microbiome, thanks to the inclusion of prebiotics.

FOR INDIVIDUAL SPOTS For isolated blemishes, Super Facialist On The Spot Treatment Gel can be applied directly to spots where it will quickly reduce and calm redness. It’s the perfect emergency treatment!

Jo Hoare
Writer and expert
View Jo Hoare's profile
Jo Hoare is an editor and author with over 17 years experience. She spent a decade at heat magazine at the height of its popularity where her favourite memories are One Direction popping in the office with cakes and flying to a private tropical island with a hair brand. Post-heat she went on to freelance across titles like Grazia, Glamour and Stylist before heading up Superdrug’s content team. She is now a freelance editor and author with eight published books.
unexpekted