Science Weekly
Secrets of the microbiome: the skin
Jan 30, 2024
Discover the secrets of the skin microbiome, including its impact on our immune system, wound healing, and odor production. Explore the effect of Western lifestyles on the skin microbiome and the rise of inflammatory skin disorders. Learn about the complex ecosystems of the skin and the role of the skin microbiome in conditions like eczema and its potential connection to the gut microbiome.
15:36
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Quick takeaways
- Different areas of the skin have varying microbial populations, contributing to the complexity of the skin microbiome.
- The skin microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining the skin's barrier function, promoting wound healing, and shaping the development of the immune system.
Deep dives
The Variety of Microbes on Our Skin
The skin is populated with diverse microbes across different layers, such as the epidermis and dermis, and appendages like sweat glands and hair follicles. The areas vary in terms of sebaceous glands, which produce unique lipids that serve as food for skin microbes. For example, the face and back have more bacteria than yeast, while the arms and legs have less abundance of sebaceous lipids. Scalp has large hair follicles housing yeast and mites, while feet have more fungi. The different ecosystems on our skin contribute to the overall complexity of the skin microbiome.
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