
Do you know the feeling when your skin suddenly reacts more sensitively, feels tight or develops blemishes, even though you have not changed your routine. A sensitive, invisible ecosystem is often the reason, the skin microbiome. It consists of billions of beneficial microorganisms that help to keep the skin protected, resilient and in balance every day.
In this guide you will learn why the microbiome is decisive for skin health, how to support it and which factors can disturb the balance. We also show how to improve skin balance in the long term and which facial care categories from JANSSEN COSMETICS are particularly suitable.
Countless microorganisms live across the skin surface, including bacteria, fungi, viruses and other microbes. Together they form the skin microbiota, also called the skin flora, and the composition varies with body site, lifestyle and skin condition1. Frequently observed are Staphylococcus epidermidis, Cutibacterium acnes and Corynebacteria. These microbes fulfil essential functions.
Shield against pathogens, a balanced microbiome crowds out harmful germs and prevents their spread.
Regulation of pH, the acid mantle, pH approximately 4.7 to 5.5, creates ideal conditions for beneficial microorganisms.
Strengthening the barrier, improved moisture retention, balanced sebum regulation and greater resilience of the epidermis.

Just like the gut flora, the skin microbiome plays a central role for health and the immune system. The two ecosystems influence each other, this is known as the gut skin axis2.
A disrupted microbiota can promote dryness, redness, irritation, blemishes or inflammatory skin conditions. Atopic dermatitis is particularly associated with reduced microbial diversity3. A healthy microbiome reinforces the barrier function and helps to prevent excessive dehydration.
A healthy microbiome is supported by gentle care, the right actives and a balanced lifestyle. These tips stabilise the skin flora.
A mild, pH friendly cleanser preserves microbiome diversity5. Prefer mild surfactants without sulphates, alcohol free formulas, pH 4.7 to 5.5, lukewarm water.
Probiotic and prebiotic formulas support beneficial bacteria. Recommended actives, niacinamide, panthenol, prebiotics such as inulin or alpha glucan6, probiotics such as Bifida Ferment Lysate7.
A reinforced barrier is the basis for a stable microbiome. Ideal choices include ceramides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, microbiome friendly textures without irritating additives.
| Active | Effect on the skin microbiome |
|---|---|
| Niacinamide | strengthens the barrier, anti inflammatory effect8 |
| Panthenol | soothes, supports regeneration |
| Prebiotics | nourish beneficial bacteria6 |
| Probiotics | support the balance of the skin flora7 |
| Zinc | regulates sebum, anti inflammatory properties |
Skin and gut are connected through the gut skin axis2. Important measures include a fibre rich diet, fermented foods, omega 3 fatty acids, stress reduction, seven to eight hours of sleep.
For more than 25 years JANSSEN COSMETICS has combined scientific expertise with high quality combinations of actives. The formulations are based on robust evidence and designed to be barrier friendly, ideal for a microbiome friendly system care approach.
Science led formulations, developed with dermatologists and laboratories.
Dermatologically tested, independently verified by TÜV.
Made in Germany, modern, barrier friendly system care.
Cleansers that are too aggressive, toners with alcohol, too many actives at the same time or over treating blemishes disrupt balance. Frequent peels or disinfectants also remove beneficial microorganisms, the skin becomes more sensitive, tends to redness and loses resilience.
The skin microbiome is the foundation of resilient skin. With consistent care, gentle cleansing and microbiome friendly actives you strengthen the skin flora and improve balance. The skin feels naturally cared for, supple and radiant.