We talk a lot about your gut microbiome, but did you know that your skin has a microbiome of its own?

Your skin microbiome is home to trillions of microbes that include 1,000 different bacterial species and up to 80 different fungi species, some of which can also be found in the gut microbiome.

The skin microbiome can change depending on where we live and differs with age and gender. It not only makes us unique, but it also impacts our health by communicating with our internal immune system. Microbes are found all the way to the subcutaneous fat layer, which is where communication takes place between the microbiome and our immune system.

A healthy skin microbiome helps to fight off infection as it prefers a more acidic environment, which inhibits the growth of pathogens. It also eases inflammation; when the microbiome is out of line, the immune system can release various antimicrobial peptides such as Cathelicidin to help balance things out. Further, your skin microbiome protects you from environmental harm and aids in wound healing, limits exposure to allergens, minimizes oxidative damage, and keeps the skin plump and moist.