Skin microbiome and epidermal barrier

The skin microbiome and epidermal barrier represent an integrated biological system essential for maintaining cutaneous homeostasis and protecting against environmental stressors. The epidermal barrier, primarily composed of the stratum corneum and tight junctions, provides a physical and chemical shield, while the microbiome consists of a diverse community of commensal microorganisms that modulate host immunity and inhibit pathogen colonization (Byrd et al., 2018). Dysregulation of this system, characterized by barrier defects or microbial dysbiosis (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus overgrowth), is a primary driver of inflammatory conditions such as atopic dermatitis and acne (Kong et al., 2012). Therapeutic approaches targeting this system do not typically hit a single receptor but rather aim to restore the ecosystem through the use of emollients, prebiotics, probiotics, and targeted antimicrobials (Dréno et al., 2016). Because this entity encompasses a complex environment of host cells and microbial species, it is classified as a biological system rather than a discrete molecular target (Elias, 2005).

Other names

Cutaneous microbiomeSkin floraSkin barrier systemStratum corneum barrier

Modulation of the cutaneous microbial ecosystem and reinforcement of the physical stratum corneum barrier to restore homeostasis.