Not all acne has to do with hormones, excess oil, or inadequate facial cleansing. Although these factors can influence its appearance, there is another element that dermatology is paying increasing attention to: the skin microbiome. An invisible ecosystem that participates in maintaining skin health and whose imbalance can promote the appearance of imperfections.
And acne is far more common than we think. According to data from the Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (AEDV) collected by Eucerin, between 78% and 90% of people will experience acne at some point in their life, with higher incidence during adolescence, especially between ages 14 and 16. In addition, this condition accounts for approximately 24–25% of dermatology consultations.
What exactly happens in our skin when pimples appear? And what role do the bacteria that naturally live on it play? Research on the skin microbiome is helping to better understand some of the mechanisms related to acne and has opened the door to new dermocosmetic solutions.
What is the skin microbiome and why does it influence acne
Although we often associate bacteria with something negative, the truth is that our skin needs to coexist with a multitude of microorganisms to stay in good condition. Bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms are part of what we know as the skin microbiome, an ecosystem that helps protect the skin and maintain its natural balance.
When this ecosystem functions properly, it helps preserve the conditions necessary for healthy skin. However, in acne-prone skin there can be alterations in the diversity and composition of its microorganisms, favoring certain inflammatory processes.
One of the most studied bacteria is Cutibacterium acnes, naturally present on human skin. The interesting thing is that not all its strains behave the same. While some are associated with the development of acne, others are usually found on healthy skin and can contribute to the balance of the skin ecosystem.
This discovery has changed the way we understand the role of bacteria in facial care. It is no longer only about eliminating them, but also about understanding which ones are beneficial and how we can promote a balanced microbiome.
That said, it is worth remembering that acne is a multifactorial condition. The microbiome is one piece of a process in which sebum production, follicular blockage, inflammation, and hormonal changes also play a role.
Eucerin presents PROBIOM8, its new live probiotic proposal
This growing interest in the microbiome is also transforming the cosmetics industry. One of the latest brands to bet on this line of research is Eucerin, which has just presented PROBIOM8, a dermocosmetic protocol designed for acne-prone skin that incorporates live topical probiotics.
Dermopure Probiotics by Eucerin.
According to the brand, behind this launch there are 20 years of research, more than 30 scientists involved, and nine patents. A body of work that has allowed identifying two strains of Cutibacterium acnes, known as CA-31 and CA-81, present naturally on healthy skin.
These strains have been selected for their ability to help modulate certain bacterial populations related to microbiome imbalance. From them, the brand has developed TopiC.A, a complex of live probiotics that constitutes the central element of the new proposal.
What is interesting about this approach is that it does not focus exclusively on correcting the visible signs of acne, but seeks to promote the balance of the skin’s ecosystem. In this way, skin care is not limited to reducing pimples, but also pays attention to the environment in which they develop.
An eight-week routine to improve the skin’s appearance
The new Eucerin proposal is designed as an eight-week protocol that combines different products and steps aimed at cleansing, restoring the microbiome balance, and hydrating the skin.
The first step consists of using the Purifying Cleansing Gel, both in the morning and at night, to remove impurities, excess sebum, and residues that accumulate on the face.
Dermopure Purifying Cleanser by Eucerin.
During the first three nights, a mask is incorporated that is applied to clean skin, left on for three minutes, and then rinsed. This step is designed to help restore the microbiome balance.
However, one of the most innovative aspects comes with the use of TopiC.A, the live probiotic concentrate. Each night ten drops must be mixed with a dose of the hydrating hydrogel, a combination that activates the microorganisms before application.
The aim is to address acne: pimples, comedones, excess sebum, visible pores, redness, and the marks left by blemishes. In addition to skin discomfort and the impact this condition can have on self-esteem.
Other brands that also bet on acne-prone skin care
Although the microbiome has become one of the major protagonists of dermocosmetic research, other brands have been developing lines precisely for oily and acne-prone skin for years.
Effaclar Ultra Concentrate Serum by La Roche-Posay.
This is the case of La Roche-Posay and its Effaclar range, which brings together products designed to cleanse, control excess oil, and improve the appearance of blemishes. One of its best-known offerings is Effaclar Duo+M, a treatment formulated for acne-prone skin that also pays attention to the skin microbiome.
Sébium Kerato+ Serum by Bioderma.
Another option is Sébium by Bioderma, a line developed for the needs of combination, oily, and acne-prone skin. Among its products we find Sébium Gel Moussant Actif, a cleansing gel containing salicylic acid and glycolic acid that helps to unclog pores, as well as Sébium Kerato+, designed to improve the appearance of pimples and blemishes.
