Your microbiome is, quite simply, the vast community of microorganisms — bacteria, viruses, fungi — that live in and on your body. Far from being “germs” to avoid, these tiny residents are essential to your health. You’ll find them everywhere: in your gut, on your skin, in your glands, blood, tissues, and even your bodily fluids.
We have a symbiotic relationship with this microscopic world. When it’s happy, we thrive — enjoying deeper sleep, better digestion, higher energy, and a strong immune system. But when your microbiome falls out of balance? Your body will tell you. You might notice:
- Skin conditions like acne, eczema, or dryness
- Lethargy and low energy
- Brain fog or trouble concentrating
- Digestive discomfort
- Frequent colds and flu
- Headaches
- Aching muscles and joint stiffness
One of the most overlooked disruptors of your microbiome is what you put on your skin. As your largest organ, it absorbs much of what you feed it — perfumes, deodorants, hair products, makeup, soap, cleansers, and especially your skincare and makeup.
Toxins to watch for in personal care products:
- Parabens – Synthetic preservatives that can disrupt hormones
- Sulfates – Harsh detergents that strip your skin barrier
- Synthetic fragrances (parfum & phthalates – Potential irritants and endocrine disruptors
3 easy tips for a healthy microbiome:
- Choose clean, non-toxic personal care. Look for plant-based, superfood-rich skincare and makeup and personal care products (deodorant, shampoo, haircare, lotions, perfumes) to support your skin’s natural ecosystem.
- Nourish from the inside out. Add probiotic foods like kimchi, prebiotic fibres from vegetables, and antioxidant-rich fruits to feed your gut flora.
- Be gentle with your skin. Avoid over-cleansing and stick to a simple, consistent routine to protect your skin barrier.
A healthy microbiome isn’t just about avoiding illness — it’s about feeling vibrant, clear-headed, and confident in your own skin. Protect it, and you’ll see (and feel) the glow.
