Present
The role of diet in maintaining a healthy skin microbiome

We all want a perfect and glowy skin. But that starts with what we put into our bodies, and not only the skincare products we use. Our diet plays a vital role in shaping our skin’s microbiome, which is composed of millions of microbes living on our skin surface.
Today we’re sharing with all of you how nutrition, hydration and a healthy gut microbiome impacts our skin microbiome.
A balanced nutrition
The key to healthy skin starts with balanced nutrition. Foods rich in antioxidants and vitamins are essential to maintain our skin in the best conditions and help the beneficial microbes also. So, the next time you prepare a delicious meal, remember to incorporate more of:
- Probiotics & Prebiotics: yogurt, kefir and fermented foods support our gut microbiome, which then helps our skin microbiome. And some important prebiotics include bananas, oats and garlic, which have great benefits too.
- Antioxidant rich foods: berries, dark chocolate, bell peppers and many more are rich antioxidants sources and vitamins C and E, which help combat inflammation.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: fish, walnuts and flaxseed are rich in this fatty acid, which helps in supporting our skin’s hydration and anti-inflammatory response. Supplementing with Omega-3 is also recommended in special cases.
- Stay hydrated always: water supports the natural barrier function of the skin, which protects against harmful microbes. Herbal teas and water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelon also contribute to optimal hydration.
Gut-skin axis
The gut microbiome and the skin microbiome are closely connected through what is referred to as the “gut-skin axis.” An imbalance in the gut, termed dysbiosis, can result in conditions such as acne, eczema, and rosacea.
Consuming a diet rich in sugar and processed foods may lead to increased inflammation, which in turn disrupts the microbiome and results in skin issues. So, remember, this holiday season it is easy to exceed sugary foods with all the family meals, but your skin microbiome will be grateful for following the tips we shared above.
Here at DARWIN, we explore the intersection of microbiology and health to create new solutions for todays’ society. Contact us today to find out how.