Sunscreen || Benefits to the Skin Microbiome
In our As Above, So Below series, we discussed the skin-gut axis; the recently discovered connection suggesting that the food that we eat feeds the microbiota in our gut, and in turn can produce good bacteria that benefits our skin. However, did you know that we have multiple microbiomes? We are host to different communities of microorganisms not only in our gut, but also in our mouths, ears, genitals, and our skin!
We are constantly learning how to support our various micro communities, and new research has shown, incredibly, that sunscreen can enhance our skin microbiome.
Our skin is host to a variety of microbiota, one such example is Lactobacillus crispatus (L. crispatus). L. crispatus works in our skin to maintain balance within the microbiome, which in turn ensures our skin is resilient and maintains its barrier function. However, L. crispatus is sensitive to UV light, and so is diminished with UV exposure, which can in turn affect our skin function overall.
Research carried out by DSM, who create UV filters, tested the skin of 10 pre-menopausal subjects before and after UV exposure, comparing skin that was treated with sunscreen and untreated skin.(1) This small study found that L. crispatus was preserved in the skin that was treated with sunscreen, demonstrating that sunscreen may play not only a role in protecting our skin cells from the harmful effects of UV exposure, but also protects and supports our skin microbiome to function optimally. L. crispatus also plays a role in fighting the invasion of pathogens, and so maintaining its function also bolsters our immune system.
Not all microorganisms in our skin microbiome are created equal, and there are strains that can in fact cause skin issues. In our article for Acne Awareness Month we discussed how the bacteria P. acnes becomes overproduced in the skin and contributes to the formation of acne. New research has pointed to the potential that sunscreen may also play a role in controlling P. acnes. In vitro studies have suggested that certain sunscreen filters can reduce colonies of the acne causing bacteria while maintaining the balance of the rest of the skin’s microbiota.
It's an exciting time in the world of skincare, and we are delighted to learn and communicate the advances that are being made in this industry. This research shows us that once again, taking some time to look after ourselves has layered benefits, allowing us to maintain our health through everyday actions.
(1) Gary Scattergood. New research reveals active benefits of UV filters to preserve skin microbiome. Cosmetics Design Europe, 26 June 2023