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Skin microbiota: balance, protection & natural care
“October 2025 update: latest research confirms key role of skin microbiota in cell regeneration.”
Invisible but essential, the skin's microbiota plays a key role in the health and beauty of your skin. At Lucia Rapetti, We consider the microbiota to be the first ally of balanced skin. natural cosmetics and our natural face creams respect its ecosystem and support its harmony on a daily basis.
The skin's microbiota, also known as the cutaneous microbiota, is essential to the balance and natural beauty of the epidermis.
What is the skin microbiota?
Le skin microbiota, also known as cutaneous flora, refers to all the micro-organisms - bacteria, yeasts and fungi - that live naturally on the surface of the epidermis.
This living ecosystem acts as a defence barrier: it protects the skin against external aggression, maintains its physiological pH and contributes to cell regeneration.
Like the intestinal microbiota, the skin's microbiota reflects the body's overall balance. When it is disturbed (pollution, stress, aggressive cleansers, hormonal imbalance, etc.), the skin becomes more sensitive, prone to redness or imperfections.
How can the skin's microbiota be kept in balance?
To preserve this delicate balance, it is essential to use gentle, non-stripping care.
Formulas containing prebiotics or probiotics reinforce the diversity of the microbial flora and help the skin to maintain its natural hydrolipidic film.
Avoid products containing aggressive surfactants, synthetic fragrances or silicones: these ingredients damage the skin barrier.
Choose natural cosmetics formulated to respect the skin microbiome, to restore the skin's vitality and softness.
The Lucia Rapetti approach: science and nature at the service of the microbiota
For over 25 years, Lucia Rapetti studies skin mechanisms and interactions between the skin and its microbiota.
Our natural face creams combine biotechnological innovation and ingredients of plant origin to support the balance of the skin's flora.
Each formula is dermatologically tested and formulated without parabens, silicones, PEGs, mineral oils or colourants, to guarantee optimal tolerance and proven efficacy.
Skin care inspired by the biology of the skin
Our ranges Life, Purifying or Sensitive promotes a healthy microbiota thanks to patented bioactive complexes that act in synergy with the skin's natural defences.
By restoring the skin barrier and by maintaining a balanced pH, they contribute to more resistant, radiant and comfortable skin day after day.
A balanced skin microbiota, is stronger, more beautiful skin.
When you choose Lucia Rapetti skincare products, you are offering your skin a unique combination of science and nature: an approach that is both natural and effective. ethical and responsible cosmetics, for the well-being and health of the skin.
🔹 Source: Study on the role of skin microbiota in skin health, Journal of Dermatological Science, 2022 - PubMed ID 34987753.
🔹 Article written by Laboratoire Lucia Rapetti, experts in natural dermocosmetics since 1998.
The role of the skin microbiota
A protective barrier
Good bacteria prevent undesirable micro-organisms from developing. They form a natural defence that protects the skin against infection and irritation.
Maintain pH and hydration
A balanced microbiota maintains Slightly acidic pH, It is essential for protecting the skin. It also helps to limit water loss and keep skin supple and radiant.
Immune support
The microbiota interacts with the skin's natural defences and helps it to react correctly to aggressions (pollution, UV rays, oxidative stress).
Beauty and radiance
Harmonious skin flora promotes a more even complexion, reduces imperfections and helps slow down visible ageing.
The causes of an imbalance in the skin's microbiota
External aggression
- Pollution and fine particles.
- UV rays that damage the skin barrier.
- Overly aggressive or stripping cosmetics.
- Washing too often or inappropriately.
Lifestyle
- Stress and lack of sleep.
- Unbalanced diet, too rich in sugars and fats.
- Medications such as antibiotics, which deplete the skin's flora.
Signs of an unbalanced microbiota
Tight skin, redness, imperfections, excess sebum, lack of radiance: these are all signals that reveal a weakened microbiota.
How can I keep my microbiota in balance naturally?
Gently cleanse the skin
Avoid stripping products. Choose gentle, pH-modifying products that cleanse without damaging the skin.
Choosing products containing prebiotics and probiotics
These active ingredients nourish the good bacteria and restore the skin's balance. Skin care Lucia Rapetti combines science and nature to respect the skin's flora.
Moisturise and protect
Well-moisturised skin provides a favourable environment for its microbiota. Plant oils and botanical extracts reinforce this natural barrier.
Nourishing your microbiota from within
A diet rich in fibre, natural probiotics (yoghurt, kefir, kombucha) and antioxidants (fruit, vegetables, green tea) supports skin balance from within.
Unbalanced microbiota: what are the risks for the skin?
- Redness, irritation, hypersensitivity.
- Acne and blemishes.
- Eczema and atopic dermatitis.
- Accelerated ageing: loss of firmness, wrinkles, dull complexion.
Practical advice for boosting your skin microbiota
To do
- Clean with gentle care.
- Moisturise morning and evening.
- Protect your skin from the sun with respectful filters.
- Eat a diet rich in probiotics and antioxidants.
- Use skincare products enriched with natural prebiotics.
What to avoid
- Aggressive cleaning and alkaline soaps.
- Exfoliants that are too frequent or abrasive.
- Products rich in alcohol or irritating fragrances.
- Excess sugar and fibre deficiencies.
- Lack of sleep and neglected stress management.
FAQ on skin microbiota
What is the difference between skin and intestinal microbiota?
The cutaneous microbiota lives on the surface of the skin, while the intestinal microbiota is found in our digestive system. Both are essential to our overall balance and interact with each other.
How can I tell if my skin microbiota is out of balance?
Redness, tightness, increased sensitivity or recurring blemishes may indicate a weakened microbiota.
What treatments are best for rebalancing the microbiota?
Gentle, surfactant-free skincare products enriched with prebiotics and natural active ingredients that nourish the protective flora.
Are cosmetic probiotics effective?
Yes, they strengthen the skin barrier, promote good balance and reduce skin disorders.
Does skin microbiota change with age?
Yes, it evolves over the course of a lifetime: it is built up at birth, stabilises in adulthood and then weakens over time.
Glossary of skin microbiota
Skin microbiota
All the micro-organisms living on the surface of the skin.
- Prebiotics
- Ingredients that nourish the skin's good bacteria.
- Probiotics
- Live micro-organisms that reinforce the balance of the skin's flora.
- Skin flora
- Another term for the skin's microbiota.
- Skin barrier
- All the natural mechanisms that protect the skin against external aggression.
The skin's microbiota is much more than just an invisible detail: it is the guardian of the skin's health and beauty. Taking care of it means giving it the means to protect itself, regenerate and reveal all its radiance.
At Lucia Rapetti, At the heart of our formulas is respect for the skin and its microbiota. Our skincare products combine nature and science to support every skin type, preserve its deep balance and reveal its natural beauty.
See also our article : How to strengthen your skin microbiota on a daily basis
