Microbiota and Skin: Role and impact of the microbiota on the skin

You have probably already heard of the microbiota and more precisely the intestinal microbiota?


Did you know there are others? Indeed, the microbiota is defined as a set of non-pathogenic bacteria or microorganisms.


But then, what is the role of the microbiota and in particular the role of the microbiota on the skin?


It is located in several places: in the intestines, in the mouth, in the vaginal mucosa, in the lungs and on the skin.

The skin flora will interest us in this article. You will be able to discover why you have unsightly pimples that appear according to the periods for example, and discover the most effective food supplements for the skin .

rôle du microbiote

Our intestinal microbiota is composed of so-called “dominant” species such as Clostridium, Eubacterium, Bifidobacterium which are bacteria beneficial for our health. They contribute to intestinal comfort for example.


It is also composed of so-called “rare and transient” species such as Streptococcus, Escherichia Coli which are bacteria that do not remain in the body as their name suggests. noted. They are generally pathogenic.


The colonization of the microbiota occurs in several stages: from birth we have the mother's vaginal microbiota, then it occurs through breastfeeding and then the bacteria diversify.


Its composition varies depending on several factors such as diet, lifestyle, drug treatments which will alter the good bacteria.

I. Microbiota and skin

1. What is the role of the microbiota?

Intestinal Flora

The intestinal flora plays several essential roles for the proper functioning of the body:

  • Immune system: it acts as a protective barrier, preserving non-pathogenic bacteria from the microbiota while opposing external pathogenic bacteria. This role is crucial for maintaining a microbial balance favorable to overall health.

  • Protection: the intestinal flora releases mucus to protect the intestinal cells. This mucous layer plays a defense role by preventing pathogens from penetrating the intestinal walls and causing infections.

  • Metabolic: it intervenes in digestion, in particular thanks to the bacteria of the colon which are equipped with enzymes capable of degrading complex carbohydrates and other nutrients to make them their energy substrate. This allows for better assimilation of nutrients and a more efficient metabolism.

  • Neurological: according to different hypotheses, the microbiota could reduce the symptoms of autism and neurodegeneration. There is a two-way communication between the gut and the brain, often called the gut-brain axis, which may play a role in regulating mood and cognitive functions.


Link between the intestinal microbiota and the dermis

The gut microbiota not only plays a crucial role in digestion and immunity. It also has a significant influence on skin health. Indeed, a healthy gut promotes glowing skin. 


Gut bacteria produce beneficial metabolites that can reduce systemic inflammation, a key factor in many skin conditions like acne and eczema.


2. Role of skin flora

The cutaneous flora also has several essential roles:

  • Protection: thanks to non-pathogenic micro-organisms which protect our skin. They are invisible to the naked eye but play a major role in defense against external pathogens.

  • Immune system: the skin flora acts as a regulator of the immune system by protecting the host from certain internal attacks such as inflammation, responsible for infections and cellular aging. It thus helps to maintain healthy and resilient skin.

The skin constitutes a protective barrier against the external environment: daily aggressions, temperature changes (summer, spring, autumn, winter), stress, lifestyle, pollution.


Our skin is an organ in its own right, it is a so-called “emunctory” organ, that is to say it is involved in the fight against toxins. The skin is made up of three layers which have different compositions: the hypodermis, the dermis in which we find collagen fibers for example, and the epidermis, the most superficial layer.


microbiote et peau

The skin flora is made up of different species of bacteria that feed on sebum, proteins, lipids and dead cells. 

This bacterial diversity varies depending on several factors such as vaginal or cesarean birth, breastfeeding, diet, age, puberty, old age, sex, genetics, climate, lifestyle, and immune status of the individual.


The skin is composed of dominant species such as staphylococci and coryneform bacteria, but also of transient species. The composition of the skin varies depending on its characteristics. For example, Malassezia yeasts are found mainly on oily skin, necessary for its survival. Transient microorganisms can cause skin disorders if out of balance.


Evolution and maintenance of skin flora

The composition of the skin flora changes over time and can be influenced by various environmental and personal factors. 


Excessive cleansing of the skin, the use of harsh cosmetic products, and hormonal variations can disrupt this fragile balance. 

It is therefore essential to choose gentle and suitable care products, as well as to maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients beneficial to the skin.


Finally, it is important to note that the diversity and richness of microorganisms on our skin are essential for healthy, glowing skin. A balanced skin microbiota helps prevent infections, maintain hydration and provide effective protection against external aggressions.

II. Microbiota and skin: Impact of the microbiota on the skin

1. Influence of intestinal flora on the dermis

When the microbiota is unbalanced, we speak of dysbiosis. That is to say, our body is no longer in symbiosis with the bacteria that make it up.


A disorder can promote the appearance of certain pathologies such as inflammatory bowel diseases, diabetes or even skin inflammation such as eczema, psoriasis or acne.


This sudden appearance of pimples mainly affects the face but in some cases we can find them on the back, neck and bust.


This imbalance can be induced by the various factors cited earlier in the article, but not only that. Indeed, hygiene can have an impact on our skin, too excessive hygiene, the use of unsuitable cosmetics which deteriorate the protective lipid film and acts as a perfect home for pathogenic bacteria. They reduce the barrier function and the pH of the skin which becomes alkaline and therefore no longer protects effectively against microbial infections.


The link between diet and intestinal flora

Diet quality plays an essential role in the balance of the intestinal microbiota. A diet rich in fiber, fruits and vegetables promotes the growth of good bacteria. 

On the other hand, a diet too rich in sugar and saturated fats can unbalance this flora, causing repercussions on the skin. Fermented foods like yogurt and kefir are excellent sources of probiotics, helping to maintain a healthy microbiota.


The importance of prebiotics and probiotics

Prebiotics, found in foods like garlic, onion and asparagus, feed the good bacteria in the microbiota. 

Probiotics, for their part, directly provide beneficial bacterial strains. A balanced combination of these two types of foods can greatly improve skin condition by reducing inflammation and promoting better hydration.


2. Influence of skin flora

The skin flora plays a crucial role in protecting the skin against external aggressions. 

A balanced skin microbiota helps maintain the integrity of the skin barrier, preventing the penetration of pathogens and loss of hydration. 


If there is an imbalance, skin conditions like acne, eczema and psoriasis can develop. The diversity and richness of microorganisms on the skin are essential for healthy, glowing skin.


Factors influencing skin flora

Several factors can influence the composition of skin flora, including climate, lifestyle, and even the skincare products used. For example, humid environments encourage the proliferation of certain bacteria and yeasts, while dry climates can alter the skin barrier and promote irritation. Using gentle care products adapted to your skin type is essential to maintain a balanced microbiota.


Role of hydration in skin balance

Hydration plays an essential role in balancing the skin flora. Well-hydrated skin is less likely to crack and allow entry of pathogens. Moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid can help lock in moisture and maintain a healthy microbiota. Additionally, drinking enough water every day is crucial for glowing, well-protected skin.

III. Food supplements beneficial to the microbiota

1. Food supplements for the intestinal flora

In order to enrich your microbiota, it is essential to adapt your diet by consuming products rich in prebiotics and probiotics such as garlic, onion, as well as fruits and vegetables which are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. 

Spices and aromatic herbs, such as turmeric and ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties and help destroy pathogenic bacteria.


Diversify your diet as well as that of your children to stimulate the growth of good bacteria. If diet is not enough, there are specific food supplements to intervene against microbiota imbalances responsible for bloated stomach, acne and other digestive disorders.


Here are our solutions for the microbiota and the swollen belly, but also to optimize the protective barrier of your skin. Food supplements adapted and perfectly responding to the body's problems. 


Our Absolu Probiopure is an innovative and powerful formula. It is composed of a combination of 5 strains of lactic ferments closest to the human intestinal microbiota , highly concentrated and contained in a gastro-resistant capsule to guarantee maximum assimilation . That is to say that the active ingredients contained in the vegetable capsule will not be altered during their passage from the stomach to the intestine. This allows you to benefit from all the benefits of the active ingredients.


We recommend doing a treatment over several months to allow the good bacteria to colonize your intestine and intervene on the various problems you face. This will allow good digestion, good assimilation of nutrients, and will considerably reduce intestinal disorders and feelings of bloating.

2. Food supplements for skin flora

For the skin flora , it is equally important to choose high-quality food supplements. Our Skin Detox is a perfect formula to detoxify your skin

Indeed, the skin is the mirror of our emotions and therefore, in the event of an imbalance, the appearance of small imperfections is instantaneous. This is why at D-LAB, we have set up with a scientific committee a formula containing a probiotic strain recognized for >intervene on the skin microbiota and thus allow it to regain its balance.


Food supplements are a safe bet for providing high quantities of quality probiotics in order to preserve your microbiota. In winter, the Immunity Program is the ideal treatment to boost your immune system and fight against falling temperatures.


It is also beneficial to integrate antioxidants into your food supplement routine. Antioxidants, like vitamin C and vitamin E, help protect skin against free radical damage, contributing to healthier, more radiant skin. In addition, essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 present in fish or flax oil, promote hydrated skin and reduce skin inflammation.


Another supplement to consider is collagen . Collagen is a protein that is essential for the structure and elasticity of the skin. Supplementing with collagen can help reduce the signs of aging by improving skin elasticity and promoting cell regeneration.


We also offer skin supplements that combine several of these elements for a holistic approach. By combining these supplements with a balanced diet and a suitable skincare routine, it is possible to maintain the balance of the skin microbiota and promote healthy, radiant skin.


How does the intestinal system influence the health of our dermis?

The gut microbiota influences the health of our dermis by producing beneficial metabolites that reduce systemic inflammation. A healthy gut promotes glowing skin and reduces the risk of skin conditions like acne and eczema. Studies show that intestinal bacteria can modulate immune responses, which directly affects the quality and resistance of the skin to external aggressions.

How can food supplements help balance the skin microbiota?

Dietary supplements can help balance the skin microbiota by providing high-quality probiotics that promote the growth of good bacteria. They help maintain the integrity of the skin barrier and prevent infections. In addition to probiotics, some supplements contain prebiotics, which serve as food for good bacteria and thus strengthen the skin's ecosystem.

How to take care of the skin microbiota?

To take care of your skin microbiota, it is essential to use suitable skincare products, maintain good hygiene without excess and consume a diet rich in prebiotics and probiotics. Avoiding harsh cosmetics that can alter the protective lipid film is also crucial. In addition, reducing stress and adopting a healthy lifestyle can have beneficial effects on the skin's flora.

How to restore microbiota and skin?

To restore microbiota and skin, it is recommended to use specific food supplements, consume foods rich in prebiotics and probiotics, and adopt a gentle and skin-friendly care routine. It is also advisable to avoid excessive exposure to environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV rays, which can disrupt the skin's balance.

Which probiotic for a beautiful appearance?

Probiotics like lactobacillus and bifidobacteria are particularly beneficial for a beautiful appearance. They help maintain the balance of the skin microbiota and prevent skin conditions. In addition to these strains, some supplements contain vitamins and minerals that support skin health, such as vitamin C and zinc.

What are the consequences of an imbalance in the microbiota on the beauty of the dermis?

An imbalance in the skin microbiota can lead to conditions like acne, eczema and psoriasis. It can also cause dry, irritated and infection-prone skin, affecting the beauty and health of the dermis. Signs of an imbalance may also include redness, itching and hypersensitivity to skincare products.

What are the best foods to nourish a healthy skin microbiota?

The best foods for nourishing a healthy skin microbiota are those rich in prebiotics and probiotics, such as garlic, onion, fruits and vegetables, as well as fermented foods like yogurt and kefir. Spices and aromatic herbs also have beneficial anti-inflammatory properties. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as oily fish and nuts, can also contribute to a balanced skin microbiota.

How important is bacterial diversity for the skin?

What are the signs of a healthy skin microbiota?