Just a few years ago, the skin microbiome was mainly a scientific curiosity and a fashionable marketing term. Today, it is increasingly becoming a real point of reference in the design of modern cosmetics. Skin is no longer seen merely as a surface to be cleansed – it is a complex, living ecosystem in which microorganisms play essential protective and regulatory roles.
The skin’s microflora co-creates the epidermal barrier, influences hydration levels, resilience to external factors, and overall comfort. When this balance is disrupted – for example by harsh detergents, improper pH, or excessive antibacterial action – the skin becomes more prone to dryness, hypersensitivity, and irritation. This is why modern cosmetics are moving away from “sterility” and toward biological balance.
What Do Microbiome-Friendly Ingredients Really Mean?
As knowledge about the microbiome has evolved, the concept of microbiome-friendly ingredients has emerged. It does not refer to a single raw material, but rather to a group of solutions designed to support the skin’s natural environment instead of disrupting it.
The most commonly used ingredients include:
Prebiotics
Substances such as inulin or oligosaccharides that act as “nutrients” for beneficial microorganisms. They support the growth of commensal microflora while also improving skin hydration.
Postbiotics and Fermented Derivatives
Valued for their stability and gentle, predictable performance. They are well tolerated even by sensitive skin and help support the skin barrier.
Bioferments and Lysates
These combine biological activity with high skin compatibility. Their advantage lies in delivering ready-made metabolites produced during fermentation, which enhances bioavailability.
Microbiome-Friendly Means More Than a Single Ingredient
In formulation practice, microbiome-friendly is not about adding one trendy raw material. It is a holistic approach to product design that includes:
- maintaining an appropriate pH aligned with the skin’s natural acid mantle,
- using mild cleansing systems,
- well-designed preservation,
- ingredients that support the skin barrier and user comfort.
Only such a comprehensive approach ensures that a cosmetic product is not only safe and stable, but also biologically compatible with the skin’s ecosystem.
A New Dimension of Quality in Cosmetics
The microbiome is no longer a trend – it is becoming a new dimension of product quality. Alongside efficacy, safety, and sensorial performance, a new question arises: How does a product affect the skin’s natural balance?
It is at the R&D and manufacturing stage that decisions are made which have a real impact on the end user’s experience. Raw material selection, formulation design, and control of technological parameters determine whether a product will support the skin or place an additional burden on it.
We understand that skin is a living ecosystem – which is why at MG Evolution® we develop cosmetics that are safe and effective, designed to respect the natural balance of the skin microbiome.
Looking to create a microbiome-friendly product? Let’s talk about your formulation.
