• Microbiome and Skin Health: Challenges and Future Prospects in Cosmetic Biotechnology
  • Fatemeh Kheyri,1,*
    1. Islamic Azad University, Tehran Medical Branch


  • Introduction: The skin microbiome, a complex ecosystem of microorganisms, plays a critical role in maintaining skin health by supporting barrier function, modulating immune responses, and preventing pathogen overgrowth. As interest in microbiome research grows, the cosmetic biotechnology industry has recognized its potential for developing novel skin care products aimed at enhancing or restoring microbial balance. This review discusses the role of the skin microbiome in skin health and cosmetic outcomes, the challenges faced in understanding and manipulating the microbiome for cosmetic use, and the future of microbiome-targeted products.
  • Methods: We conducted a comprehensive review of current literature using PubMed and Google Scholar databases to gather studies on skin microbiome composition, functions, and its implications for cosmetics. Peer-reviewed articles, clinical studies, and reviews focusing on probiotic, prebiotic, and postbiotic skin care, alongside advancements in biotechnology for microbiome analysis, were included. Additionally, regulatory perspectives on microbiome-based cosmetic products were examined through industry reports and guidelines.
  • Results: The skin microbiome is composed of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms that coexist in symbiosis with the human host. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining skin health, but individual microbiomes can differ significantly based on factors such as genetics, environment, and lifestyle. This variability presents a significant challenge for developing universally effective microbiome-targeted cosmetic products. Despite these challenges, several advancements have been made, including the introduction of probiotic and prebiotic-based skincare products. These products aim to support a healthy skin microbiome, leading to improved skin barrier function and reduced inflammation. However, regulatory barriers and a lack of standardization remain key obstacles for widespread market adoption.
  • Conclusion: The intersection of microbiome research and cosmetic biotechnology offers exciting possibilities for personalized skincare. Probiotic, prebiotic, and postbiotic formulations have shown promise in enhancing skin health by targeting microbial imbalances. Despite the challenges posed by individual variability and regulatory hurdles, continued advancements in biotechnological tools for microbiome analysis and manipulation will drive the future of the cosmetics industry. Personalized skin care based on individual microbiome profiles may soon become a reality, allowing for more tailored and effective cosmetic solutions.
  • Keywords: Skin microbiome, cosmetic biotechnology, probiotics, personalized skincare, prebiotics