The Skin Microbiome: Why Your Skin's Bacteria Matter

July 13, 2026

Your skin is not just a surface, it is a living habitat. A whole community of microbes lives on it, and interest in the skin microbiome has grown quickly.

What the research shows

A review in Nature Reviews Microbiology describes the skin microbiome as the community of bacteria and other microbes that live on the skin, coexisting with it and forming part of its defence against harmful organisms (Byrd et al., 2018, PMID 29332945). The skin's slightly acidic, resource-poor surface is part of what shapes this community.

How to support your skin's microbes

Avoid over-cleansing or harsh, stripping products that disrupt the surface.
Choose gentle, lower pH cleansers that clean without stripping.
Do not over-exfoliate, and support the barrier with hydration.

A quick note: microbiome-friendly marketing has moved faster than the evidence, so the sensible focus is simply not disrupting your skin, rather than chasing specific claims.

At Verdo we stock the Medik8 Gentle Cleanse and the soothing Medik8 Calmwise Serum.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. The studies cited are from peer-reviewed journals and are provided for educational context. Individual results vary. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist before changing your routine. Verdo Cosmetics makes no therapeutic claims about the products or services mentioned.

Frequently asked questions

What is the skin microbiome?

It is the community of bacteria and other microbes living on your skin. A review describes how these microbes coexist with the skin and form part of its defence against harmful organisms (Byrd et al., 2018).

How do I keep my skin microbiome healthy?

The sensible approach is not disrupting it: avoid over-cleansing and harsh products, use gentle lower pH cleansers, do not over-exfoliate, and keep the barrier hydrated.

Do microbiome skincare products work?

Marketing has moved faster than the evidence here. Rather than chasing specific microbiome claims, the reliable move is simply gentle care that avoids stripping the skin.

Does over-cleansing harm skin bacteria?

Harsh, stripping cleansing can disrupt the skin's surface and its resident microbes. Gentle, non-stripping cleansing supports both the barrier and its microbial community.

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