What is the Skin Microbiome? 

The skin microbiome is the name for the tiny, invisible world of microorganisms that live on the surface of our skin. This includes 

• Bacteria 

• Fungi 

• Viruses 

• Mites 

Even though it may sound odd to think about germs living on our skin, many of these microorganisms are actually beneficial. They help protect us, keep our skin health, and support our immune system(1). 

Why does the skin microbiome matter?

The skin microbiome is actively working to keep your skin healthy. Healthy microorganisms do things like: 

• Fight off harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause infections 

• Soothe inflammation and teach the immune system how to respond properly 

• Help health wounds and minor cuts 

• Maintain the skin’s natural pH and moisture 

When the balance of the skin microbiome is disrupted, it can lead to a condition called dysbiosis. This means there are either too many harmful microorganisms or not enough good ones (2).

Dysbiosis has been linked to many common skin conditions, including: eczema (atopic dermatitis), acne, psoriasis (a chronic condition that causes red, scaly skin), chronic wounds or infections (2). 

Emerging research also shows that the skin microbiome is connected to overall health. Because the skin and the immune system work together, changes in the skin microbiome may also impact your gut health, and brain function(2). 

The role of the skin barrier

Your skin barrier is the outermost layer of your skin. It's a wall made of skin cells and natural oils. Its main jobs are to: 

• Keep moisture inside the body 

• Keep germs, irritants and toxins outside the body 

• Act as your body’s first line of defense against the environment 

A healthy skin barrier helps prevent dryness, irritation, infection, and inflammation. When the skin barrier is damaged, you may experience dry, flaky skin, increased sensitivity, redness and itching, breakouts or infections. That’s where ingredients like beta-glucan come in as it helps repair and protect the skin barrier (1,4). 

What is Beta-glucan and why is it good for skin? 

Beta-glucan is a natural compound found in barely, oats, and certain mushrooms. It is a type of soluble fiber that has become well known in skincare for its impressive benefits. In fact, beta-glucan is a prebiotic and encourages the growth of the healthy bacteria on our skin!  Dermatology studies such as Du et al. (2014), show that beta-glucan is safe, effective, and offers multiple skin benefits (1,4,5). Here’s how beta-glucan helps your skin: 

1. Hydration - Beta-glucan is a humectant, which means it draws water from the air into your skin. This helps keep your skin moisturized, soft, smooth and plump. It’s especially helpful for people with dry or sensitive skin and can reduce the appearance of fine lines caused by dryness. 

2. Skin barrier Repair - Beta-glucan helps strengthen the skin barrier by sealing in moisture and reducing water loss. This is important because when the skin loses water (known as transepidermal water loss (TEWL), it is more prone to irritation, inflammation, and damage. This is especially helpful for those with skin conditions like eczema. 

3. Wound Healing - Beta-glucan helps your skin heal faster. It boosts the activity of keratinocytes which are cells that build the outer layer of skin and fibroblast which are cells that produce collagen and elastin, which keeps the skin strong and flexible. By encouraging these cells, beta-glucan helps with skin repair, smoother texture, and fewer signs of irritation or damage.

4. Prebiotic for the skin - Beta-glucan encourages the growth of healthy bacteria on the skin, supporting the skin microbiome and overall skin health. Studies show that applying beta-glucan topically can boost skin hydration, help wounds heal and support the skin’s immune response.

By Dr. Mom Skincare 

By Dr. Mom has developed functional, educational and trusted products using beta-glucan as an effective treatment for dry skin, eczema, but bites and diaper rash. Our formulas use high concentrations of beta-glucan (23%) and contain minimal ingredients, making them suitable for babies, children and adults. 

By Dr. Mom Hydrating Bath Soak is a non-steroidal bath treatment safe for babies and adults, infused with 23% concentrated Beta-glucan to deliver more enhanced relief for dry itchy skin. 

By Dr. Mom Soothing Beta Cream contains 23% Beta-glucan to improve skin hydration and healing. Formulated with minimal ingredients and free of steroids, the cream can be used multiple times daily without the risk of skin thinning. 

References

1. Lee H-J, Kim M. Skin Barrier Function and the Microbiome. Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Oct 28; 23(21):13071

2. Chen Y, Knight R, Gallo RL. Evolving approaches to profiling the microbiome in skin disease. Front Immunol. 2023 Apr 4; 1151527

3. Swaney MH, Kalan LR. Living in Your Skin: Microbes, Molecules, and Mechanisms. Infect Immun. 2021 Mar 17; 89(4): e00695-20

4. Harris-Tyron TA, Grice EA. Microbiota and maintenance of skin barrier function. Science. 2022 May 27; 376(6596): 940-945

5. Du B, Bian Z, Xu B. Skin health promotion effects of natural beta-glucan derived from cereals and microorganisms: a review. Phytother Res. 2014 Feb; 28 (2): 159-66