Bacteria and many other microorganisms are often visualized as carriers of infection and disease, with the general perception that they need to be removed at all costs.  However, the actuality is that we need many of these microorganisms   to protect and strengthen the skin barrier, and to make our bodies function properly!

Yes, you heard that right! A healthy microbiome can be the key to enhancing your skin’s appearance. Similar to those in your gut, the skin ‘microbiome’ (or ecosystem) has an important role to play in protecting against invasive pathogens and maintaining skin homeostasis.

It is only when this skin flora becomes unbalanced, it can show upin the form of  inflammation expressed as acne, eczema, rosacea flares, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, or even dryness and hypersensitivity.

Why Understanding the Skin Microbiome is Important

Think of a rainforest or the ocean – it is composed of various living things that work together. Our skin is a microcosm or miniature version of the same concept –  consisting of millions of bacteria, fungi, protozoans, and viruses.

Every individual has an unique skin microbiome (in Ayurveda – this is called your ‘Dosha’).  A healthy microbiome plays a pivotal role in keeping unhealthy bacteria  and other microbes away.

A central theme in any plant based formulation is the importance of introducing ingredients to your Skin Care products that intelligently support the skin’s microbiome while also delivering vital elements that support your skins’ reconstruction and good health.

For instance, while the presence of ‘demodex mites’ on facial skin is common to everyone, rosacea patients apparently have either an overgrowth of them, or develop sensitivity to this normal microbial population (science hasn’t progressed far enough to determine this) requiring special formulations (such as our all natural SBR Line) to control these microorganisms.

Maintaining Healthy Skin Microbiome with Puraveda Organics

Living a clean lifestyle is a great way to restore a healthy skin microbiome. This includes getting enough sleep habits, staying hydrated, spending time in nature, and removing toxic elements in your home and workplace.

Puraveda Organics Skin & Haircare regimens are clean and minimalist. These formulas are made with plant oils, vitamins, and nourishing ayurvedic botanical elements that allow beneficial microbes to maintain homeostasis.

For Pitta Skin

A healthy skin microbiome of Pitta Skin (those prone to sensitivity, or conditions such as Rosacea, Eczema, Psoriasis, Blemishes) is addressed and accomplished by our SBR Line. The four important formulas of this line are made of concentrated soothing and healing botanical Skin Actives from the world over, to ease the painful and frustrating symptoms of rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, and other sensitive skin conditions.

• SBR Cleanser Removes grime, dirt, and harmful microbes, while naturally nurturing your complexion.
• SBR Hydrator/Toner restores pH balance – important to maintain homeostasis.  Cools down inflammatory reactions under the skin.
• SBR Serum – Moisturizes and treats the underlying cause of redness. Strengthens your skin’s protective barrier.
• SBR Papaya & Honey Facial Mask – Removes impurities from pores, preventing black and whiteheads, thus promoting better skin health and nutrient uptake.

For Kapha Skin

Often called the ‘oil magnet’ in Ayurveda – Kapha skin can be a breeding ground for unhealthy microorganisms (such as Acne vulgaris or Propionibacterium acnes). It is extremely important to control these microbes and maintain pH balance to minimize the chances of acne and pore enlargement (due to pore blockages). Here’s how our 4-step Pore Perfect Regimen works for you:

• Pore Perfect Cleanser removes impurities, detoxes, and reduces sebum overproduction without stripping natural oils for a healthier complexion.
• Pore Perfect Hydrator/Toner a deep down oil and hormone balancing formula. Maintains pH homeostasis and diminishes the appearance of enlarged pores.
• BioScience Peptide Complex brightens dull skin, strengthens pH barrier, and fades/prevents hyperpigmentation.
• Papaya & Honey Exfoliation Mask & Scrub has both micronized walnut shell particals and fruit-enzyme acid based skin actives. Eliminates deep seated debris and free radicals.

For Vata Skin

Normal/dry/Vata skin has some advantages over the other two when it comes to   maintaining a healthy skin microbiome. Vata Doshas are usually less susceptible to microbial-imbalance compared to Kapha or Pitta skin. However, Vata skin being dry, may sometimes become overstressed, which in turn can lead to overgrowth of microorganisms, thus resulting in clogged pores and blemishes. Here are the microbiome friendly skincare formulas for healthier Vata skin everyday:

• Daily Foaming Cleanser gently removes deep seated impurities, including sweat, makeup, and oily buildup.
• Daily Hydrator/Toner for pH balance and moisture replenishment.
• BioScience Peptide Complex + Rejuv Serum or Collagen Boost Serum strengthens skin barrier and provides excellent (and proven) anti-aging benefits.
• Papaya & Honey Exfoliation Mask & Scrub for unclogging pores, removing free radicals, and improved nutrient uptake of advanced skin treatments.

Additional Points to Note That Impacts Skin Mircrobiome

While you are using our products diligently, we advise you to address the following concerns. The following can impact/ slow down restoration of good microbiome:

• Hard water
• Overly hot water.
• Combining our products with other formulas.
• Skipping the advised regimen.
• Poor exfoliation.

Restoring a healthy skin microbiome may take some time (Here’s how quickly you can expect results). But do you need an instant solution for a sudden blemish? Our On the Spot Blemish Treatment(s) are there for you. As always, opt for a Personalized Skin Care Regimen for the most optimal results.