The skin microbiome-age-health connection

 

The majority of us are aware of the outward indications of good skin, including even texture, firmness, elasticity, and a dewy radiance. One of the most important—yet frequently overlooked—parts of healthy skin can be seen if you look a little closer—and then a little closer still. This is the skin microbiome.

A wide variety of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and even mites (yes, mites!) make up the microscopic ecosystem that lives on the surface of the skin. 1 Although it's simple to think of having skin "bugs" as a bad thing, research has shown that when skin bacteria are a part of a diverse and balanced microbial community, they not only coexist with our skin but also promote skin health. [1] On the other hand, dysbiosis, also known as microbial diversity imbalances of the skin, has been linked to a number of variations in normal skin function.

Therefore, the microbial balance of our skin influences not only how it feels and looks, but also how it works. Let's examine the skin microbiome in more detail and see what we can do to promote it and the health of our skin at various ages.

Beyond skin deep

The skin, the biggest organ in the body, serves a variety of vital purposes. Skin is one of our strongest protectors in addition to being our public face, a reflection of our attractiveness, and an expression of who we are. A barrier made of healthy skin protects against environmental hazards such pollution, allergies, cosmetics, infections, UV rays, and excessive temperature changes. [2],[3] The skin serves to keep the "good guys" in as well as the "bad guys," including moisture, electrolytes, warmth, and, well, all of our inside bits and pieces! Vitamin D is another vital nutrient produced by the skin that is necessary for the health of the immune system and bones. [4]

Getting to know your skin microbes

The skin depends on a few "helpers" to maintain everything in order so that it can act as an efficient barrier. The millions of germs that live on each square centimetre of skin—perhaps most significantly, bacteria—are among these helpers. 1 Due to a lack of available space, there is ongoing rivalry between good (useful) and bad (pathogenic) bacteria for nutrients and space to thrive. By doing the following, good bacteria aid in preventing the expansion of bad bacteria.

·         Crowding out bad bacteria

·         Producing anti-microbial peptides, which can inhibit growth of bad bacteria

·         Regulating the local immune system

When good bacteria are outnumbered, bad bacteria can disturb skin barrier function by:

·         Producing enzymes which break down the components of the skin barrier

·         Dysregulate the local immune system

·         Encourage further growth of bad bacteria

 

It’s all about balance

It takes ongoing effort to keep the ratio of helpful to harmful germs in check. The amount of water consumed, one's diet, and how often one washes their skin can all have an impact on the skin's capacity to maintain this crucial equilibrium. In essence, the environment we provide for our bacteria determines which bacteria will survive and which won't, and the environment of our skin microbiome can be significantly influenced by our age.

There’s no place like home

Our skin germs have certain spots to live, just like ourselves. Armpits and skin folds are among the places where some people prefer humidity, whereas the face, head, neck, and back are among those who prefer dryness (e.g., palms and soles). aThese bodily areas provide a microenvironment that promotes the growth of some microorganisms, usually by increasing the amount of their chosen food source. [5]

 

A life’s journey

These micro-environments alter as a result of changes in our bodies as we become older. As an illustration, the incredibly adorable, roly-poly skin folds that are typical of infants produce a lot of heat and moisture, which encourages the growth of moisture-loving germs like Staphylococcus aureas. On the other side, during our teen years, hormone-driven hyperactivity of the sebaceous glands encourages the formation of oil-eating bacteria like Cutibacterium acnes. With the decrease in sebum secretions in older persons, the same microorganisms naturally become less numerous. 5

These microbial alterations brought on by ageing might result in frequent skin abnormalities linked to particular life periods, including teenage acne.

It all starts at birth

Our skin's microbiome is influenced by both our micro- and macro-environments, or what we are exposed to in the outside world.

 

Birth is a fascinating introduction to the world of the microbiome, going from a nearly bacterial-free environment within the womb to the microbial zoo of the outside atmosphere. Significant microbiological variations between infants born vaginally versus by a c-section have been observed, indicating that even the way we enter the world has an influence. [6]

 

The infant skin microbiome begins to take shape within the first 4-6 weeks of life and continues to grow and diversify until stabilising at the age of 3.

 

[7] As various body locations develop their own own microbial patterns and microbial communities start to reflect our particular peculiarities,some of which can be determined by:

 

·         Diet – such as macronutrient (e.g., carbs, protein and fats) and alcohol intake

·         Smoking

·         Exercise habits

·         BMI

·         Use of emollients and washes

·         Animal contact

·         Living location and much more[8]

 

While it is widely acknowledged that the environment has a significant impact on the human microbiome, researchers have found that age is one of the most powerful predictors of microbial patterns. In fact, a 2020 study discovered that skin microbiome samples may accurately predict a person's age to within 4 years. [9]

Supporting skin microbial health through the ages

 

The skin microbiome can respond to healthy dietary and lifestyle changes because it is so flexible and dynamic. You can take the following actions to support the balance and health of your skin's microbiome:

Take care of your gut: Studies have revealed that people with acne have dysbiosis of the gut more frequently than people without acne. [10] Western-style diets, which are high in refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, dairy, chocolate, and little omega-3 fatty acid consumption, are thought to have an impact on this. 5 Consuming a diet high in plant-based foods, anti-oxidants, fibre, and essential fatty acids will not only positively impact the health of your skin but also the microbiota in your gut and skin.

Keep yourself hydrated. A crucial component of maintaining general health is drinking enough water each day. A variety of studies have indicated that increasing daily water intake by at least 100ml to 2L may support skin health by enhancing deep skin hydration and elasticity and reducing dryness and roughness in people who are already on the low side of water intake or who are at higher risk of dehydration due to exercise or advanced age.

Collagen supplementation has been found to support skin suppleness and integrity. [12]

Consult a healthcare professional for more detailed guidance on how to take care of your skin's microbiota.

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