Glossary

Microbiome

Written by Reviewed by the SYNC editorial team Published Last reviewed Editorial standards

Microbiome — the community of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that naturally live on the skin's surface and interact with its barrier and immune defenses. A balanced skin microbiome is thought to support barrier function and help keep the skin environment stable.

Key points

  • The skin hosts a diverse population of microbes that varies by body site and between individuals.
  • A balanced microbiome is believed to help support the skin barrier and its natural defenses.
  • Skin surface pH, moisture, and lipids all shape which microbes thrive.
  • Harsh cleansing, some ingredients, and environmental factors can disrupt the microbial balance.

Frequently asked

What does the skin microbiome do?

It is a community of microorganisms that interacts with the skin barrier and immune system and is thought to help maintain a stable, balanced surface environment.

Can skincare affect the microbiome?

Yes, factors like harsh cleansers, pH, and certain ingredients can shift the microbial balance, which is why gentle routines are often recommended.

Related topics

This is a foundational entry in the SYNC Skin Encyclopedia and is expanded over time. Educational information only — not medical advice.

Encyclopedia

Further reading

This entry was written and checked against the sources below. They are published by clinical and scientific bodies, they are listed most readable first, and each one opens in a new tab. They are background for the whole entry rather than footnotes to individual sentences.

  1. Microorganisms found on the skin DermNet NZ Clinical guidance dermnetnz.org
  2. The gut microbiome in skin disease DermNet NZ Clinical guidance dermnetnz.org
  3. Unraveling the Role of the Skin Microbiome in Health and Disease NIAMS (NIH) Clinical guidance niams.nih.gov
  4. The Human Skin Microbiome in Selected Cutaneous Diseases PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. The Skin Microbiome: Current Landscape and Future Opportunities PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

SYNC does not publish medical advice. Nothing here replaces a consultation with a doctor or a pharmacist about your own skin.