Natural beauty, inner calm

WELLBEING PRACTITIONER, HEALTHWELL SOLUTIONS & BECALMED SPA

By Caroline Hurley

I.I.H.H.T. ART(Reg)

Our skin is constantly under attack both internally and externally, therefore maintaining the natural biodiversity of your microbiome is incredibly important. The microbiome is an ecosystem of microorganisms that live both on, and inside, our body. It is as unique to us as a fingerprint, and is determined by genetics, age, hormones, stress, diet, and environmental factors.

Skin microbiome Most of us are aware of the importance of maintaining a balanced gut microbiome for our overall health. But do you realise how crucial the microbiome of our skin is to its overall health and appearance? It is the first line of defence in protecting our skin against external damage such as heat, moisture, skin pH, skin type, sebum and sweat. The microbiome of our skin works with its own complicated ecosystem, communicating with our immune system. This is one of the reasons why, when there is a problem with our overall bacterial health, our skin shows the signs on the outside How to look after the microbiome The microbiome of the skin works best in an acidic environment with an optimum pH level between 4.5 and 5.5. At this level, our skin inhibits pathogens, limits damage from UV exposure, and keeps the skin protected. Excessive cleanliness, antibiotics, soaps, and chemicals can damage both the microbiome of the skin and of the gut. This can lead to problems such as acne, eczema, fungal infections, dandruff, rosacea and increase premature signs of ageing. Therefore, we do not recommend the use of soap or wipes on your skin as they have a high pH level which will damage the skin’s microbiome. Just as nurturing our mental and physical wellbeing has become an imperative, so too a healthy appearance has become our chosen signifier of youth. Consequently, ESPA Skincare has embraced the new wave of scientific skin care with its pre and probiotic skincare products. The ESPA Tri-Active™ Resilience ProBiome range respects, nurtures and supports the skin’s delicate microbiome. It is the first line of defence against environmental aggressors while keeping skin hydrated, which maintains effective barrier function.

This range provides your skin with ingredients full of natural antioxidant properties, helping to support your skin’s natural defences against environmental factors and oxidative stress.

Signs you should be using the Resilience range: • Dehydrated, tight, uncomfortable skin. • Redness • Dull and tired looking skin • Imperfections, visible pores • Unbalanced, reactive and stressed skin. • Uneven skin tone and texture

So how can you achieve natural beauty and inner calm? Make sure you are looking after the natural biodiversity of your microbiomes - both on the inside with a healthy diet and on the outside with skincare designed to protect you.