The best skin care products for a healthy skin microbiome

Your skin is like any other organ in your body—it requires a balanced diet, proper hydration and sufficient sleep to function at an optimal level. In fact, a variety of internal and external factors contribute to the skin’s natural rejuvenation process. On a cellular level, your body is hard at work, healing, renewing and restoring your skin microbiome in an effort to keep your complexion looking healthy and vibrant. Board-certified dermatologist and LovelySkin CEO, Dr. Joel Schlessinger, breaks down everything you need to know for achieving a balanced skin microbiome, including:

• What is a healthy skin microbiome?

• Why is your skin's microbiome important?

• The best microbiome skin care

What is a healthy skin microbiome?

The microbiome is an invisible ecosystem of microorganisms that live on the surface of the skin. Trillions of microflora and bacteria work to create a protective barrier, shielding the body from external stress and damage.

Just like your fingerprint, the composition of your skin’s microbiome is completely unique to you. Your skin microbiome varies according to your age, genetics and the environment where you live. Experts agree, however, a healthy, balanced microbiome is essential for protecting skin’s surface, locking in moisture and keeping skin looking supple and radiant.

Why is your skin's microbiome important?

Increasing evidence shows keeping your skin’s microbiome healthy can help prevent irritation, acne, eczema and even psoriasis. Board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Joel Schlessinger explains, “Your skin barrier is the best defense your skin has against damage from sun, pollution, irritation and infection. When it is traumatized or not in the best shape, bad things can happen. That's why I recommend products that not only maintain the natural barrier, but also improve it.”

Reestablishing a balanced microbiome restores healthy barrier function and hydration while leaving skin looking plumped and vibrant. Many experts have developed innovative skin care treatments specially formulated to boost microbiome health.

The best microbiome skin care?

Whether you struggle with dryness, dullness, acne or any other skin concern, improving your skin’s microbiome is sure to help. Here are six of Dr. Joel Schlessinger’s favorite microbiome skin care products that promote a healthy, balanced barrier. 

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser

Start your microbiome skin care routine with a cleanser that won’t leave skin feeling dry or tight. This gentle cleanser removes makeup, excess oil and other impurities while maintaining skin’s natural moisture barrier. Free from harsh soaps, sulfates, parabens and fragrances, this calming formula leaves skin clean and soothed.

LovelySkin LUXE Exfoliating Gel Mild 11%

Exfoliation is important, but harsh scrubs can be too abrasive on skin’s microbiome. This gentle skin exfoliator works to encourage cellular turnover while strengthening skin's barrier function. Powerful antioxidants and Dead Sea minerals leave skin healthy, refreshed and refined.

SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator

This hydrating face serum is formulated with five different forms of hyaluronic acid to provide eight hours of skin-soothing hydration. Skin is instantly replenished while the nourishing formula works to improve tone, texture and overall skin health with each use.

PCA SKIN Hydrating Toner

An antioxidant-infused toner is an easy way to rebalance your microbiome morning and night after cleansing. This moisturizing toner effortlessly clears away dirt, excess oil and impurities while keeping skin balanced and refreshed.

FixMySkin 1% Hydrocortisone Healing Body Balm

Formulated with healing hydrocortisone, this powerful balm for lips and body instantly soothes irritation, dryness and flakiness. Nourishing shea and coco butters replenish skin’s microbiome while alleviating symptoms stemming from eczema, psoriasis, allergic reactions and more.

SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Essence Mist

Clinically proven to strengthen skin’s barrier, this hydrating facial mist instantly soothes redness and irritation for a more even skin tone. It’s easy to layer into any skin care routine and can be reapplied throughout the day as needed, even over makeup, for all-day hydration and comfort.

EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex Anti-Aging Facial Moisturizer

This deeply nourishing moisturizer improves skin microbiome after just one application. A blend of ceramides, hyaluronic acid and vitamin E provide soothing hydration while visibly diminishing fine lines, dull skin tone and dryness.

LovelySkin LUXE Mattifying Antioxidant Moisturizer

For healthy hydration without a heavy feel, reach for this gentle daily moisturizer with a weightless, matte finish. Formulated with powerful peptides, vitamin C and Dead Sea minerals this non-comedogenic moisturizer improves skin health while strengthening skin’s barrier function.

Revision Skincare D·E·J Eye Cream

The skin around the eyes is incredibly fragile. This nourishing eye cream rejuvenates skin around the eye for a youthful appearance. The innovative microbiome skin care formula supports dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ) improving skin’s structure and restoring radiance.

Looking for more ways to keep skin hydrated? Learn more about keeping skin soothed and healthy with our best tips and ingredients for dry and dehydrated skin.