Work with your skin microbiome, not against it
For years, skincare has focused on “fixing” the skin through strong actives, foaming cleansers and oil stripping formulas, but dermatological research is increasingly highlighting a different approach: supporting the skin’s microbiome.
The skin microbiome is a complex ecosystem made up of microorganisms including bacteria, fungi and viruses that naturally live on the surface of the skin.
As explained by La Roche Possay, there are around “one million bacteria per square centimetre of skin” and over 500 identified species, all playing a role in maintaining balance and barrier health.
In simple terms, these microorganisms help defend against harmful bacteria, support the skin’s protective barrier, and regulate inflammation that can lead to redness, sensitivity and breakouts. When this balance is disrupted, often through harsh cleansing, over exfoliation, stress or environmental factors, the skin barrier can weaken, leading to increased moisture loss and reactivity. This is why dermatology led brands emphasise gentle, microbiome respecting skincare, as stripping the skin too aggressively can remove the beneficial oils and microbes that keep it stable.
Understanding Skin Microbiome
The skin microbiome refers to the microorganisms that live on the surface of your skin. While it might sound a bit confronting, these microbes are actually essential for healthy skin.
Think of your microbiome as a protective system:
- Helps defend against harmful bacteria
- Supports your skin barrier by keeping moisture in and irritants out
- Helps regulate inflammation, which can reduce redness and sensitivity
- Contributes to overall skin balance and resilience
When your microbiome is healthy and balanced, your skin tends to look calmer, clearer and more hydrated. But when it’s disrupted by harsh cleansers, over exfoliation, pollution or stress, it can lead to issues like dryness, irritation or breakouts.
That’s why modern skincare is shifting toward microbiome friendly products that support rather than strip the skin.
The Rise of Skin Respecting Cleansers
Cleaning is where microbiome care begins. Overly foaming or stripping cleansers can disrupt your skin’s natural balance, while gentle formulas help maintain it.
A must have cleanser focused on microbiome skincare is Lush’s best selling Angels On Bare Skin.
Lush’s Meet Your Microbiome
At Lush’s Meet Your Microbiome event Sydney, we were invited to make Angels on Bare Skin ourselves. Watching and participating in the process gave a new appreciation for what handmade really means. Fresh, natural ingredients like lavender, rose and chamomile blended together to support the skin.
Mixing the formulas together by hand revealed that skincare shouldn’t overwhelm the skin, but instead support it. The finely ground almonds provided gentle exfoliation without stripping the skin, while the soothing botanicals helped maintain balance, making the product ideal for microbiome focused routines.
Cleansing Balms
Formulated with nourishing oils and waxes, cleansing balms are the new approach to luxe skin. They work by dissolving makeup, SPF and eliminating daily bacteria rather than aggressively washing them away. This oil based method means the skin is cleansed thoroughly, but without barrier disruptions.
Lush’s Ultrabland cleansing balm fits seamlessly into a microbiome friendly routine. Rich, simple and incredibly effective, the product removes makeup and build up while leaving the skin nourished and supporting the skin’s natural ecosystem.
Ultrabland cleansing balm has quickly earned a place in my consistent skincare routine since the Meet Your Microbiome event. This product is particularly effective in makeup removal, effortlessly melting away products while leaving the skin feeling soft, nourished and moisturised.
Other Microbiome-Loving Essentials
Beyond cleansing, a growing number of brands are formulating products designed to work in harmony with your skin,
Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturising Cream
Formulated for dry, sensitive and compromised skin, this moisturiser delivers a blend of replenishing and barrier strengthening ingredients that work instantly and over time. Skin is left feeling soft, calm and resilient, while a Ceramide Complex reinforces the skin’s natural defences, locks in moisture and shields against environmental stressors.
Korres Greek Yoghurt Probiotic Superdose Face Mask
If your skin is looking a little tired and dull, this is the mask to reach for. Formulated with real Greek Yoghurt and clinically proven microbiome technology, the Korres Probiotic SuperDose Face Mask delivers an instant cooling boost while working to restore a healthy, balanced glow from within.
Use it 2 to 3 times a week for 10 to 15 minutes, or leave it on overnight when your skin needs a little extra love.
Pro tip: Keep the mask in the fridge for an advanced cooling, refreshing feel.
Korres Greek Yoghurt Probiotic Skin Supplement Serum
For a lightweight yet deeply nourishing step, this cooling serum is designed to work in harmony with your skin’s microbiome. Formulated with real Greek yoghurt and pre and probiotic extracts, this serum helps rebalance the skin while delivering an instant soothing effect. Three types of hyaluronic acid provide deep hydration, leaving the skin plump, smooth and refreshed, while vitamin E supports a softer, more even looking complexion. Ideal for dull, dehydrated or sensitive skin, it fits seamlessly into a microbiome focused routine, helping to calm and restore resilience with everyday use.
Healthy skin isnt about stripping everything back, it’s about supporting what’s already there.
