Our skin is not only a protective shield against external influences, but also a habitat for billions of microorganisms. This collective collection of microbes—the so-called skin microbiome—plays a central role in our skin's health. From birth, this microbial community develops dynamically, influenced by the environment, hormones, lifestyle, and aging processes. But what happens to the skin microbiome as we age? What changes occur? And how can you take targeted countermeasures to promote a healthy skin flora at any age? In this article, you'll learn everything about the structure of the skin microbiome and its age-related changes—informed, practical, and search engine optimized.
What is the skin microbiome anyway?
The skin microbiome is the totality of all microorganisms that live on human skin. These include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and mites. Each body region—whether the face, hands, scalp, or intimate area—has its own microbial profile. This microbiome maintains a close symbiotic relationship with the host, i.e., us humans. It protects us from pathogenic germs, regulates the immune system, and helps maintain a stable pH level of the skin.
A healthy skin microbiome is diverse, stable, and balanced. Different microorganisms not only coexist, but also interact in complex ways. If this balance is disrupted, for example due to excessive hygiene, stress, or medication, it can lead to skin problems – from acne to eczema to chronic inflammation.
The structure of the skin microbiome in the life cycle
Skin flora in newborns and infants
Microbial colonization of the skin begins at birth. Whether a child is born vaginally or by cesarean section plays a role. Babies born vaginally primarily inherit the mother's vaginal and intestinal flora, while cesarean section babies often inherit hospital-acquired bacteria and skin bacteria as their primary colonizers. In the first months of life, the skin microbiome develops very dynamically and reacts sensitively to external influences such as breastfeeding, skincare products, or antibiotics.
Childhood to puberty
In early childhood, microbial diversity continues to increase. The skin flora stabilizes and effectively protects against many pathogens. During puberty, hormonal conditions change, particularly due to an increase in sebum production. This creates new ecological niches in which lipophilic bacteria such as Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes ) can dominate – often associated with the development of acne.
Adult skin: stability and environmental factors
In adulthood, the skin microbiome is largely stable, but highly dependent on external factors. UV radiation, air pollution, diet, lack of sleep, stress, and the choice of cosmetic products all significantly influence the skin's microbial composition. Individual behavior—such as how often one showers or what clothing one wears—also plays a role.
Age-related changes in the skin microbiome
With age, not only the structure and function of the skin changes, but also its microbiome. Sebum and sweat production decreases, making living conditions more difficult for certain microorganisms. Studies show that microbial diversity on the skin tends to decrease with age, while some opportunistic bacteria may increase.
Particularly striking is the decline in Cutibacterium acnes in older people—a bacterium that, paradoxically, can both promote acne and protect against harmful germs. At the same time, the population of staphylococci, particularly Staphylococcus epidermidis , but also pathogenic members such as Staphylococcus aureus , often increases .
These changes make the skin of older people more susceptible to infections, inflammation, and impaired wound healing. Furthermore, a less diverse microbiome contributes to increased skin dryness, itching, and sensitivity.
Factors influencing the aging skin microbiome
Hormonal changes
With age, the production of estrogen and testosterone—hormones that directly influence the sebaceous and sweat glands—decreases. Less skin oil means less food for certain microbes. The result is an impoverishment of the microbial ecosystem.
Skin physiology and pH value
The skin's natural acid mantle often becomes more unstable with age. An elevated pH promotes the growth of unwanted microorganisms and weakens the skin's defense mechanisms.
Medicines and care products
Older people are more likely to take medications—such as antibiotics, antihistamines, or corticosteroids—that can also negatively impact the skin microbiome. At the same time, many use conventional skincare products containing alcohol, parabens, or harsh surfactants that disrupt the balance of the skin's flora.
Immune system and tendency to inflammation
With age, the immune system becomes sluggish, a process known as immune senescence. This makes the body less able to respond effectively to microbial imbalances, leading to chronic inflammatory processes—a condition also known as "inflamm-aging."
How to support your skin microbiome as you age
Microbiome-friendly skincare
Opt for gentle cleansing products with a skin-neutral pH, free of sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances. Products containing prebiotic or postbiotic ingredients—nutrients that promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms or directly contain microbial metabolites that have a protective effect—are particularly helpful.
Fermented cosmetics and biotechnology
Fermented skincare products contain bioactive substances created through microbial fermentation that strengthen the skin barrier and nourish the microbiome. They're proven to improve skin elasticity, reduce redness, and promote a healthy microbial balance—ideal for mature skin.
Nutrition for a strong skin microbiome
The skin is also cared for from within. A gut-friendly, plant-based diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and prebiotics can positively influence the skin microbiome. Fermented foods such as yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kefir, in particular, help promote a healthy microbiota systemically.
Stress reduction and sleep
Chronic stress and sleep deprivation promote the release of cortisol, which activates inflammatory processes and destabilizes the skin microbiome. Adequate sleep, relaxation exercises, and mindful routines are simple but effective ways to protect the skin and microbiome.
Minimize the impact of the environment
Air pollution and UV radiation are among the main factors that impact the skin microbiome as we age. Antioxidant skincare products, mineral sunscreens, and avoiding highly polluted environments can help stabilize the skin flora.
Conclusion: The skin microbiome ages with us – but you can support it
The skin microbiome is a highly complex, sensitive ecosystem that changes throughout the lifespan. Microbial diversity and resilience decline particularly with age, which can lead to increased susceptibility to skin problems. However, through targeted measures – from microbiome-friendly skincare to a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle – the skin microbiome can be positively influenced even in old age.
Understand your skin as a living ecosystem that needs to be cared for and supported. By paying attention to the balance of your skin microbiome, you're investing not only in aesthetic beauty but also in your holistic health.
