The human body is made up of microorganisms that live in it and guarantee its proper functioning and provide numerous benefits. Anabel Zaldívar, co-founder of Gloü Organics, a cosmetics company focused on protecting your skin flora, states that “the microbiota is the collection of bacteria, microbes and fungi responsible for fighting external aggressors and maintaining homeostasisthat is, the physiological balance of the organism”.
“The microbes that make up the microbiota depend on the characteristics of the host, such as age, sex, genes, or the immune system, and the environment, such as hygiene or sun exposure,” explains Zaldivar. When we undergo lifestyle changes, our stress level increases or we use cosmetics that break the balance of the microbiota, certain bacteria that were previously beneficial to our body become pathogenic, a process known as dysbiosis.
According to the co-founder of Gloü Organics, “The relationship between microorganisms and the environment is mutualistic, that is, it is a symbiotic relationship in which bacteria protect the skin, digestive system and oral cavity from possible conditions or pathogens in exchange for offering a place with ideal conditions to live in.
The skin is the largest organ and the first line of defense
The dermis is home to its own characteristic microbiota and is different in every part of the body. “Depending on whether it is dry, oily or wet, it will consist of different bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites adapted to the qualities of each area,” they specify from Gloü Organics, adding that “there are also variations of microorganisms depending on the depth or layer of the skin they are in, as they are less abundant in the most superficial layers of the skin and are more similar between humans”.
María Saenz, a pharmacist specializing in dermocosmetics and nutricosmetics at Maan24.es, agrees: “Balancing the skin microbiome is essential to keep the skin looking healthy and well-groomed, but also clear and fresh. If a healthy lifestyle is complemented by cosmetics whose ingredients respect the flora of the skin, we will keep this protective barrier in perfect condition”.
The gut and dermis are closely related
The channel of communication between them is called the “gut-skin axis”, Anabel Zaldivar indicates “the relationship between the two suggests that the appearance of the skin can improve thanks to the balance of the gut microbiota, which remains stable with the help of prebiotics, probiotics and symbiotic, just like a healthy diet.”
“The gut flora is responsible for helping to digest certain foods that our bodies would otherwise be unable to metabolize on their own. In addition, it intervenes in the regulation of appetite and the process of fat absorption,” says Gema Cabañero, director of R&D&I at the advanced nutricosmetic company 180 The Concept.
Microbiota present in the oral cavity
The oral cavity is one of the main entrances for pathogens into our body and therefore consists of many surfaces covered with a large number of microorganisms.
The bacterial makeup of the mouth provides numerous benefits for the immune system. According to Patricia Palma Maldonado, director and founder of the P&P Clinic Dental Aesthetic Clinic, “The oral microbiota helps convert the nitrate in the foods we eat into nitrite, which is converted to nitric oxide, a compound with powerful natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. which helps regulate metabolic and cardiovascular processes, maintain healthy mucous membranes and regulate various metabolic processes.
Expert recommendations to care for the microbiota
From Gloü Organics they assure that “keeping our skin, gut and oral microbiota in balance is very important to ensure the health and protection of our body, stop premature aging and ensure that it can regenerate against any external aggressor”.
Gloü Organics, a cosmetics company focused on protecting your skin flora, consists of six basic products that work on all skin types. With them she wants to create the perfect daily facial care routine: mousse cleanser (€21), exfoliating toner (€39), antioxidant serum (€43), regenerating face cream (€41), purifying mask (€37) and eye contour (€37).
The Flat Belly Plan, from 180 The Concept, is rich in prebiotics that help to regenerate the intestinal flora in a natural way. In addition, it also contains ingredients that reduce swelling, improve digestive processes, nutrient absorption and gut health, such as magnesium citrate, papain or rosemary.
Whitening toothpaste, from Yotuel (€9.95 at Maan24.es), is a foam-free toothpaste that is completely free of detergents. This product contains active natural enzymes, fluoride and papain that cleanse tooth enamel, neutralize erosion and protect the oral microbiota.
The Balancing Moisturizer Balance Moisturizer with Glycolic Acid Activator, from Medik8 ($58 at mumona.com), it’s ideal for checking and regulating oily or acne-prone skin. This moisturizer contains prebiotics and probiotics that contribute to the balance of the skin flora and leave the skin fully hydrated and healthy.
Source: Marie Claire
