What you need to know about your skin’s microbiome

Understanding your skin microbiome holds the key to healthier-looking and youthful skin

Even the biggest beauty fans can find it tricky to keep up with new products and innovations. Thanks to social media, we’re constantly exposed to a long list of serums, toners, moisturisers, masks and more – and pinning down what we really want or need can be a bewildering experience.

Skincare regimes have been a huge talking point in recent years – and everything from K-Beauty to beta hydroxy acids have become widely known by even the most amateur of beauty fans. But something that might not yet be on your radar is the skin’s microbiome and how looking after it could help with visible signs of ageing. Never heard of it? Here’s what you need to know…

What is your skin microbiome?

The microbiome is a unique ecosystem of microorganisms living on and in harmony with our skin. Like a fingerprint, it is unique to us as individuals. It’s the first line of defence against the damaging effects of modern life on your skin.

What affects it?

The skin microbiome, which is made up of bacteria, fungi and viruses, is affected by different lifestyle stressors such as diet, general health and stress.

Everything from the skin type and PH level to heat, sweat and sebum have an impact, and the microbiome works to defend against damage from these factors, and will help to slow the visible ageing process down and help achieve healthier skin.

Why should I look after it?

Like all ecosystems, biodiversity is important for optimum performance. Crucially, the more diverse our skin microbiome is, the healthier looking and more youthful our skin will be.

Where do I start?

That’s why ESPA, long-time pioneers of holistic skincare, has created a new treatment range with your skin microbiome in mind, Tri-Active™ Advanced PreBiome. The range, comprised of ProBiome Serum, ProBiome Moisturiser and ProBiome Eye Cream, seeks to work in harmony with your skin and not against it. Combining powerful plant, marine and aromatherapy actives with pre and probiotic technology, it responds to nurturing the diversity of bacteria on the skin’s surface, helping to restore the first line of defence.

First up, use the Tri-Active™ Advanced ProBiome serum, an intensive treatment infused with Chinese Butterfly Bush. Apply to cleansed and toned skin and press in until fully absorbed.

Tri-Active™ Advanced ProBiome Serum, £100 for 30ml. Buy now

Follow this with the Tri-Active™ Advanced ProBiome Moisturiser for much-needed hydration – the subtle Neroli blend can help calm and soothe the senses.

Tri-Active™ Advanced ProBiome Moisturiser, £85 for 55ml. Buy now

Finalise your routine with the Tri-Active™ Advanced ProBiome Eye Cream, as such delicate skin requires targeted and careful treatment. It’s infused with Tuberose Cell Extract, which can help diminish the appearance of dark circles.

Tri-Active™ Advanced ProBiome Eye Cream, £65 for 15ml. Buy now

For that extra boost, try ESPA’s new facial, Natural Facelift. The distinctive exercise regime for the skin, lasting 90 minutes, fuses the lifting and stimulating effects of ancient Kobido-style massage with the Tri-Active™ Advanced ProBiome range.

Investing in your skin means starting with your microbiome

For more information on this new range, or the new treatments, visit espaskincare.com or your nearest ESPA spa