Skin Microbiome 101 & the Revolutionary Testing Tool to Understand Yours

Skin Microbiome 101 & the Revolutionary Testing Tool to Understand Yours

Guest blog by Dr. Elsa Jungman, PhD

Our microbiomes are a fascinating bionetwork of bacteria, fungi, & viruses which exist to protect our skin, from the moment we are born and every day following. Your microbiome is the Rosetta Stone of your skin, holding all the answers to skin health within its labyrinth. This invisible factory of aggressor-fighting agents is sensitive and needs to be understood to be nurtured and protected. To learn more about your microbiome, read on.

What is the Skin Microbiome?
The skin microbiome is an ecosystem of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi that live on your skin. Just like in our gut, This invisible layer works in epic cohesion to keep your skin healthy. If left alone, your microbiome would thrive, however our lifestyles today do not allow that. This is why keeping your microbiome balanced, with limited irritants is so important. 


Skin Epidermis

 

The importance of the Skin Microbiome
The skin microbiome protects your skin against harmful pathogens, strengthens your skin barrier and regulates your skin immune system. An imbalance of your skin microbiome is correlated to various skin problems such as: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin infections. Protecting and nourishing your microbiome means happy, glowing skin.




How can I care for my Skin Microbiome?

Skin Microbiome

Your microbiome is ever-evolving and can change based on a myriad of factors such as: skincare routine, new pets in your home, moving to a new city, seasonal changes, hormonal changes, ect. If your skin feels unbalanced we recommend caring for your microbiome with the “less is more” philosophy. This means using ingredients that don't have excessive preservatives, fragrances, essential oils, & harsh soaps. Avoiding these ingredients and opting for products aimed to keep your microbiome balanced will nurture your microbiome and allow for it to flourish. Being aware of the state of your microbiome will allow you to adjust your skincare regimen to best suit your microbiome.

What Is the Skin Microbiome Test?


The skin microbiome test is a revolutionary step in understanding our skin and how it works. 

In just one swab you will be able to decode the secrets of your skin, your results will be as unique as you are, and hold a wealth of information. Simply put, there is no better way to intimately discover and learn about your skin, the microbiome is the equation, and we aim to solve it. 


Completing the skin microbiome test takes minutes, and can be done in the comfort of your own home with a simple swab on your forehead. Instruction cards and additional video instructions will be provided to ensure clarity. The test is a swab collected from a designated section of your forehead. The sample collection will be sent to our testing lab in a prepaid envelope which comes within the kit. We analyze your swab for bacteria and fungi present on your skin. 


What can I benefit from knowing my skin microbiome?
Just like you, your skin microbiome is one of a kind. Through the report you will be able to identify the unique makeup of bacteria and fungi that live on your skin. Knowing your microbiome makeup will allow you to understand your skin and needs, at a fundamental level. With this information, you can discover the impact of your current routine and lifestyle on your skin microbiome.

What will the Skin Microbiome Test results provide me with?

Skin Microbiome

The test results will give you an overview of the bacteria and fungi living on the surface of your skin. You will be able to see a comprehensive overview of the makeup of your microbiome, and a score that will allow you to understand the amount of healthy vs. unhealthy bacteria you have, see below for an example image of test results: 

Skin Microbiome Kit Test

Also as a bonus you will discover your personalized beauty routine and superfood recommended for your skin profile to promote a maximum skin health and healthy skin microbiome. Chat with a Credo Clean Beauty Expert, online or in-store, for recommendations based on your results.

The future of skin care is rooted in science and the health of our microbiomes. Science has only just begun to understand the complexity and significance of this system, but today you have the power to test your own microbiome, and see this universe living on your skin for yourself. The at-home microbiome skin test is a culmination of years of research and dedication from scientists and skin experts alike. 

Resources:

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About Dr Elsa Jungman:

Dr. Elsa Jungman has a Ph.D. in Skin Pharmacology and began her career working in R&D for L’Oréal in Paris.

Dr. Elsa’s passion for researching began while contributing to peer reviewed journals at age 25 and has continued as she’s worked with renowned dermatologists and leading brands all over the world. In 2015 she moved to San Francisco where she learned about the skin microbiome and its importance for skin health.

She made it her mission to be an advocate and resource for promoting a healthy skin ecosystem. She worked towards that vision by becoming a mentor for biotech startups and STEM students as well as an expert for the Clean Beauty Council at Credo Beauty.

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