Description
The diverse microbiota (organisms on the skin surface) acts as one of the skin's protective mechanisms.
The development of the microbiota in early life lays the foundation for a life-long keystone population of organisms. During adulthood, the microbiome can be affected by several factors, such as lifestyle, cohabitants, seasonal changes, medication, and exposure to chemicals. When the microbiota is disturbed, known as dysbiosis, this weakens the skin's natural protection and may expose the host to microbiota-related conditions. Restoring diverse skin microbiota, for example by supporting the number of Lactobacilli on the skin, helps to maintain skin barrier function and protect the host.
Learning Objectives
- Importance of early-life microbiome build-up
- Protective role of skin microbiome
- What does microbial dysbiosis on skin and ear look like
- Interaction between skin barrier and the microbiome
- How to maintain a healthy skin microbiome
