It might sound frightening to some, but humans are not alone in their bodies. Researchers assume that as many bacteria and other tiny life forms live on and inside us as there are cells in the body: between 10 and 100 trillion – probably around 40 trillion. The composition of the microbiome The microbiome in the oral cavity, the gut, the genital tract, or on the skin varies from person to person. This complicates research: if the microbiome is as unique as a fingerprint, it is difficult to draw general conclusions from studies.
Health-promoting microorganisms
The gut microbiome has been the best researched area to date. The bacteria living there, for example, prevent the colonization of pathogens. They promote the absorption of nutrients into the blood and support the... immune system. In a stable balance of the various microorganisms, harmful and pathogenic invaders have less chance.
However, if the balance is disrupted and individual strains of bacteria take over, this can become noticeable. This can happen, for example, in the case of... Taking antibiotics This happens. They damage the gut microbiome. Resistant bacteria (such as...) benefit. z.B. Clostridium difficile), which can then spread. This is why many people experience diarrhea when taking antibiotics.
The presence of various organisms on our skin's surface is also important for the skin's microbiome. Representatives of the Staphylococcus bacteria family make up the majority of these organisms. These rounded staphylococci are found almost everywhere: in the air, in the nose, and on the skin. Not all of them are harmless. For example, if the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus proliferates under certain conditions, it can lead to skin inflammation. This can be a particular problem in nursing homes or hospitals.
Bacteria as protective shields
In principle, the bacteria, viruses, and fungi on our skin are not aggressive invaders. A balanced ratio of microorganisms supports various metabolic processes, aids in wound healing, and protects against invaders. Many of the bacteria that live on our skin produce proteins that, in turn, kill other germs.
The black sheep among the settlers
- Mushrooms of the genus Malassezia: If they become excessive, skin eczema can develop.
- Staphylococcus aureus: If it spreads, boils may develop. In the case of a systemic infection, dangerous pneumonia can occur.
- Staphylococcus haemolyticus: It is one of the hospital germs and can cause diseases of the urinary tract or joints.
- Staphylococcus epidermidis: can coat prostheses or catheters with a biofilm.
Researchers have found in various studies that the composition of the microbiome changes in many patients with skin diseases. Compared to healthy individuals, the bacterial colonization is less diverse. One example of this is atopic dermatitis, a non-contagious, chronic inflammatory skin disease that can be inherited. Scientists discovered that the distribution pattern of the skin cells in affected individuals changes in inflamed areas, such as the inner elbow or the back of the knee. They published their findings in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.The diversity of good bacteria decreases, while the "bad" organisms multiply and trigger inflammation.
What surprised the researchers was that the non-inflamed skin of the affected individuals also showed an altered microbiome. These findings should pave the way for new treatment options in the future. Restoring the natural skin barrier could play a crucial role in the treatment of skin diseases.
Today we know that targeted skincare can promote the production of germ-killing proteins by the skin microbiome. This skincare therapy should include urea-containing creams, which strengthen the skin barrier. Dermatologists and pharmacists can advise on product selection. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that cortisone-containing creams not only combat skin inflammation in eczema but also stabilize the patient's microbiome.
Finally, here are 5 exciting facts about the skin microbiome. Enjoy reading!
The skin microbiome
- Previously, microbes were thought to be invaders that urgently needed to be fought. Fortunately, we now know that the human body forms a kind of symbiotic relationship with microbes (pathogens)! This understanding changes things considerably, because it shows that bacteria shouldn't be fought, but rather the entire microbiome should be supported so that the body's own defense system can function optimally!
- The Intestinal flora It needs not only probiotic bacteria, but also prebiotic fiber. As you may already know, prebiotics are essentially "food" for probiotics. These help the bacteria to grow and to ward off harmful bacteria that, for example, are bad for your skin!
- To enable the skin to perform its natural functions, we need to support it. This includes, for example, allowing the skin to repair itself when injuries or inflammation occur. The skin is also responsible for defending against free radicals, which are generated, for example, by UV radiation. But how can we support our skin? Consuming antioxidants and vitamins, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and coenzyme Q10, is highly effective, as these are particularly powerful free radical scavengers!
- Did you know that your skin also affects your metabolism? This happens through ultraviolet radiation. This is contained in the short-wave portion of sunlight and promotes the body's own metabolism. It also helps the body to... Vitamin D Vitamin D has positive effects on our muscles and improves the absorption of calcium, which strengthens bones and supports the immune system. But beware! Too much ultraviolet radiation has very strong negative effects on our bodies – this can lead to sunburn and chronic diseases such as skin cancer!
- The microbiome fundamentally protects the body from the immunosuppressive effects of USB radiation. If the skin microbiome is not intact, the skin cannot provide sufficient protection. This is because a healthy skin microbiome suppresses the increased release of cytokines (substances that create an immunosuppressive environment) and thus the protective function of the immune system.
