Originally published May 2020 · Updated for clarity and current recommendations
For years we’ve talked about gut health as the foundation of wellness. Fermented foods, prebiotic fiber, mineral balance, and feeding beneficial bacteria have (rightly) become part of the conversation.
But there’s another microbiome we don’t talk about nearly enough.
Your skin.
Your skin is your body’s largest organ and its first line of immune defense. Like your gut, it hosts a complex ecosystem of bacteria and microorganisms that protect you—when they’re supported rather than disrupted.
The skin microbiome: what actually matters
Healthy skin is not about stripping, scrubbing, or “zapping” bacteria.
It’s about:
- Maintaining a resilient skin barrier
- Preserving moisture and lipids
- Supporting beneficial microbes
- Avoiding chronic irritation and over-treatment
One of the fastest ways to disrupt the skin microbiome is excessive cleansing or overuse of active ingredients. Dry, inflamed skin creates an environment where beneficial microbes struggle and opportunistic organisms take over—commonly seen in eczema, dermatitis, acne, and chronic sensitivity.
Why what you put on your skin matters
Your skin is not a sealed container.
Topical products influence the skin barrier, local immune signaling, and microbial balance. Repeated daily exposure matters far more than occasional use.
The biggest issues I see are not caused by a single “bad” product, but by cumulative exposure to barrier-disrupting ingredients—especially when layered daily.
This includes:
- Harsh surfactants
- Overuse of exfoliants and acids
- Synthetic fragrance (a major chemical loophole)
- Poorly balanced preservative systems
Synthetic fragrance in particular remains one of the most problematic and least transparent categories in personal care. I do not recommend it.
The quiet problem with modern skincare
Even within “clean” beauty, overcorrection is common.
Too many actives. Too many steps. Too much stimulation.
Skin thrives on:
- Consistency
- Simplicity
- Hydration
- Barrier support
In many cases, improving skin health means doing less—not adding more.
What I look for in skin-supportive products now
I no longer recommend skincare based on brand loyalty. I look at formulation first.
Key criteria include:
- Barrier-supportive formulations
- Thoughtful preservative systems
- No synthetic fragrance
- Minimal plant-extract or essential-oil–based fragrance only, when used
- Hydration-focused, not stripping
Brands I regularly recommend through Fullscript include options such as:
- Immunocologie
- Dr. Hauschka
- Suki
You can explore vetted skincare options available through my dispensary here:
Brands I recommend outside of Fullscript
Some excellent options are not carried on Fullscript but still meet my standards.
Herbal Face Food
Whole-plant, highly concentrated formulations designed to actively support skin repair, tone, and integrity.
Important note: Herbal Face Food products are very effective and also very active. Some people experience a warming or burning sensation on application, especially if their skin barrier is compromised or they are sensitive to botanical actives.
I recommend starting with Serum I and using it sparingly, then gradually working your way up only if tolerated. This line can be particularly helpful for minimizing hyperpigmentation and supporting skin clarity over time, but it is not a “jump in with everything at once” brand.
Shop Herbal Face Food
30% off with code: MAYWELLNESS
Crunchi
Well-formulated skincare and makeup with calming ingredients, plenty of actives, strict ingredient standards and thoughtful sourcing.
If you’re overwhelmed, start here
You don’t need a complicated routine.
Start with:
- A gentle cleanser (or oil cleanse)
- A barrier-supportive moisturizer or oil
- A sun protection option you tolerate well
That’s enough to begin restoring balance for most people.
Skin health is built gradually, not forced.
Xo,
Brenna
Related Posts
A Minimal Skincare Routine for Reactive or Compromised Skin (coming soon)
Skin Barrier Repair: Why More Skincare Isn’t Better (coming soon)
Choosing Sunscreen for Sensitive or Autoimmune-Prone Skin (coming soon)
Ingredient Safety in Skincare: What Actually Matters (coming soon)