{"id":122337,"date":"2026-01-26T10:29:27","date_gmt":"2026-01-26T09:29:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bioecoactual.com\/?p=122337"},"modified":"2026-01-26T10:29:27","modified_gmt":"2026-01-26T09:29:27","slug":"skin-friendly-bacteria-microbiota","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bioecoactual.com\/en\/2026\/01\/26\/skin-friendly-bacteria-microbiota\/","title":{"rendered":"Skin-friendly bacteria: The role of microbiota in modern cosmetics"},"content":{"rendered":"

In recent years, the concept of the microbiome has moved from scientific curiosity to a key focus in skincare. Terms like \u201cmicrobiome-friendly\u201d and \u201cmade with probiotics\u201d have gained popularity, reflecting a trend towards enhancing the skin\u2019s natural microbial ecosystem. Probiotics<\/strong>, prebiotics<\/strong>, and postbiotics<\/strong> are increasingly being incorporated into cosmetic formulations, aiming to nourish and balance the skin\u2019s delicate flora. This surge in interest is driven by increased research into the skin microbiota, which has uncovered the role it plays in maintaining healthy skin. While the first probiotic cosmetics emerged years ago, the industry has since advanced, with new discoveries showing the impact the skin microbiome has on dermatological health. This evolving understanding has led to a shift in approach, recognising that certain bacteria are not just harmless but can actively benefit the skin.<\/p>\n

\"Skin-friendly<\/p>\n

Unlocking the power of skin microbiota<\/h2>\n

The human skin hosts a diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, moulds, yeasts, viruses, and parasites. These microorganisms play a crucial role in maintaining the skin\u2019s health, supporting immune function, and preventing harmful pathogens from colonising. The term microbiota refers to the population of microorganisms that naturally live in a specific area of the body, while the microbiome refers to the collective genetic material of these microorganisms, forming a complex network of interactions with our cells.<\/p>\n

The composition of the human microbiota is dynamic and influenced by factors such as geography, external conditions, diet, and age. Studies have shown that an imbalance in microbiota, known as dysbiosis<\/strong>, can contribute to various skin problems, including acne<\/strong>, rosacea<\/strong>, and atopic dermatitis<\/strong>. In contrast, maintaining a balanced microbiota, or eubiosis, can improve skin hydration and elasticity. This understanding has driven the rise of microbiome-friendly skincare, with products designed to nurture beneficial skin bacteria.<\/p>\n

Probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics are increasingly being incorporated into cosmetic formulations, aiming to nourish and balance the skin\u2019s delicate flora<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Postbiotics in skincare<\/h3>\n

In nutrition, probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics support microbial balance by acting internally through ingestion and colonization. In skincare, they may help maintain the skin microbiota externally by creating a favourable environment for beneficial microorganisms. Here\u2019s how they are used in skincare.<\/p>\n

    \n
  • Probiotics:<\/strong> According to the World Health Organisation, probiotics are \u201clive organisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit to the host, \u201d typically by improving or restoring the gut microbiota when taken orally. In topical application, these bacteria do not \u201ccolonize\u201d the skin but can positively influence the skin microbiota by supporting the microorganisms already present, helping maintain skin balance. However, their viability in formulations remains a challenge, as formulators must balance protecting products from harmful bacteria while keeping beneficial ones alive despite preservatives and environmental exposure. Maintaining live bacteria over time is difficult, and while there are methods to extend their lifespan, they typically have a shorter shelf life in packaging.<\/li>\n
  • Prebiotics:<\/strong> These are not microorganisms, but organic substances that provide a favourable environment for beneficial microflora. Prebiotics include fibres and sugars such as inulin, glycosaminoglycans, beta-glucans, and oligosaccharides, usually derived from plant sources or biotechnology. These ingredients serve as a source of nutrients for beneficial bacteria, helping them thrive and maintain balance. Prebiotics are already wellknown and used in cosmetics (e.g.: as humectants), and unlike live microorganisms, prebiotics are easy to incorporate into formulations \u2013 although it is always necessary to demonstrate their \u2018prebiotic\u2019 function for the skin (i.e., promoting the growth and survival of beneficial microorganisms already present in the skin microbiota).<\/li>\n
  • Postbiotics:<\/strong> These are substances derived from microorganisms or their metabolism, such as peptides or organic acids obtained through fermentation. Postbiotics offer anti-inflammatory, moisturising, and protective benefits. This area opens many possibilities because by changing the microorganism or the fermentation substrate, a wide range of different substances can be produced, each with its own chemical characteristics and cosmetic properties.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
    \"Bacterias
    123RF Limitedcoffeemill<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    The science behind \u201cmicrobiome-friendly\u201d cosmetics<\/h3>\n

    The cosmetics industry has increasingly turned to biotechnology to harness ingredients that support the microbiota. Fermentation<\/strong>, for instance, has become a key process in creating skincare components, driven by the need for greater sustainability. It has made many plant-based alternatives to synthetic derivatives available. In fact, today substances from small amino acids to large sugar polymers can be obtained through the fermentation of plants using microorganisms.<\/p>\n

    In this context, certified natural cosmetics have become a preferred choice for conscious consumers. The NATRUE standard, with its strict criteria excluding synthetic substances from formulations and only permitting natural, derived natural or nature-identical substances, supports fermentation methods. NATRUE-certified products often contain lactobacilli, soluble prebiotic fibres such as inulin (from chicory), polysaccharides (from fruits and algae, etc.), and a variety of plant extracts obtained via fermentation. If you want to explore these options, feel free to check NATRUE\u2019s database.<\/p>\n

    Certifications like NATRUE offer an additional assurance that products meet stringent natural and sustainable criteria<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

    Regulatory considerations and consumer transparency<\/h3>\n

    Cosmetics labelled \u201cwith probiotics\u201d or claiming to \u201crestore the skin flora balance\u201d are gaining attention, supported by scientific studies on the skin microbiome or highlighting ingredients like lactobacilli. We need to keep in mind that, while the presence of lactobacilli in a cream may help balance the skin microbiome, improve hydration, enhance the skin\u2019s barrier function, the term \u201cprobiotic cosmetics\u201d is not regulated. Brands making such claims must substantiate them with clinical studies, as the absence of guidelines for \u201cprobiotic cosmetics\u201d leaves room for misleading marketing.<\/p>\n

    Regulation (EU) No. 655\/2013<\/strong> recommends that claims for cosmetic products shall be supported by adequate and verifiable evidence, ensuring that consumers receive accurate and well-founded information. Certifications like NATRUE offer an additional assurance that products meet stringent natural and sustainable criteria.<\/p>\n

    The future of microbiomefocused skin care<\/h3>\n

    As consumers become more aware of the importance of the skin microbiota, demand for microbiome-friendly cosmetics is expected to grow. Biotechnology and fermentation processes will be key in crafting the next generation of sustainable, effective skincare solutions. With ongoing research, we can expect more advanced, scientifically- backed formulations that truly nurture and balance the skin.<\/p>\n

    Autoras: <\/strong>Paula G\u00f3mez de Tejada, Global Communications & Public Relations Manager de NATRUE and Diana Malcangi, Scientific and Regulatory Advisor<\/p>\n

    Article Originally Published in Bio Eco Actual International Yearbok 2025 – Trends 2026.<\/em><\/p>\n

    Subscribe<\/strong><\/a> to Bio Eco Actual Newsletter and be up to date with the latest news from the Organic Sector<\/strong><\/p>\n

    Bio Eco Actual<\/em><\/strong>, International Organic Newspaper
    \n<\/em>    Read the Bio Eco Actual International Yearbok 2025 – Trends 2026<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n