Holobiont 101: Understanding and Caring for Your Skin’s Microbial Ecosystem

Prebiotics are non-digestible compounds that serve as food for beneficial microorganisms. By selectively nourishing the good bacteria on the skin, prebiotics help maintain a balanced microbiome, promoting overall skin health. Ingredients like inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and certain plant extracts are effective prebiotics that can be incorporated into skincare formulations to support the growth of beneficial microbes.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when applied to the skin. These beneficial bacteria can help restore and maintain the skin’s microbiome balance, reducing the presence of harmful microbes and enhancing the skin’s natural defense mechanisms. Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species are commonly used probiotics in skincare products, known for their ability to improve skin barrier function and soothe inflammation.

Postbiotics are metabolic byproducts produced by probiotics during fermentation. These bioactive compounds, such as peptides, enzymes, and acids, have potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Postbiotics can enhance skin health by promoting cell turnover, strengthening the skin barrier, and providing protection against environmental stressors.

• Inulin: A natural polysaccharide derived from chicory root, inulin acts as a food source for beneficial skin bacteria, promoting a balanced microbiome.
• Fructooligosaccharides (FOS): Derived from fruits and vegetables, FOS selectively stimulate the growth of beneficial microorganisms, enhancing the skin’s natural defense.
• Galactooligosaccharides (GOS): Found in dairy products, GOS support the growth of beneficial bacteria, helping to maintain skin balance.
• Xylooligosaccharides (XOS): Extracted from plant sources like corn cobs and bamboo, XOS are known for their prebiotic benefits, promoting a healthy microbiome.
• Beta-Glucan: Sourced from oats and certain fungi, beta-glucan acts as a prebiotic, enhancing skin barrier function and hydration.
• Pectin: A natural carbohydrate found in fruits, pectin supports the growth of beneficial skin bacteria and helps maintain skin health.

• Lactobacillus Ferment: A probiotic extract known for its ability to enhance skin barrier function and soothe irritation.
• Bifidobacterium Lysate: A probiotic lysate that helps strengthen the skin’s defense mechanisms and reduce sensitivity.
• Streptococcus Thermophilus Ferment: This probiotic ingredient helps to increase skin hydration and improve the skin’s overall texture.
• Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate: Derived from yeast, this probiotic filtrate has moisturizing and brightening properties, contributing to a healthier skin microbiome.
• Lactococcus Ferment Lysate: This lysate promotes skin renewal and resilience, helping to maintain a balanced microbiome.
• Bacillus Ferment: A probiotic ferment known for its ability to provide enzymatic exfoliation, enhancing skin smoothness and clarity.
• Enterococcus Faecalis: This probiotic ingredient helps to strengthen the skin’s barrier and support its natural defenses.
• Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate: A natural preservative with antimicrobial properties, this ingredient also helps balance the skin microbiome.

• Peptides: Bioactive peptides produced through fermentation that promote collagen synthesis and skin repair.
• Lactic Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid with exfoliating and hydrating properties, derived from probiotic fermentation.
• Butyric Acid: A short-chain fatty acid produced by probiotic bacteria that helps strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation.
• Acetic Acid: Produced by probiotics during fermentation, acetic acid helps to balance the skin’s pH and has antimicrobial properties.
• Propionic Acid: This postbiotic helps maintain the skin’s acid mantle and has antimicrobial effects, protecting against harmful pathogens.
• Ferulic Acid: A powerful antioxidant produced during fermentation, ferulic acid helps to neutralize free radicals and protect the skin from environmental damage.
• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates, produced by probiotics, help to hydrate and protect the skin, enhancing its barrier function.
• Enzymes: Bioactive enzymes produced during fermentation aid in skin exfoliation and renewal, promoting a smoother and more radiant complexion.