Abstract

The outermost borders of the skin are guarded by an intelligent community of microorganisms. This multi-cultural society relies on an efficient organisation that keeps all the microbial members save under all environmental circumstances. The human skin is directly benefiting from this balance. The skin microbiota is the first line of defence against the harsh environment. Little to no evidence exists of what can protect this microbial layer, nor what and how cosmetic ingredients influences the species of the skin flora.
The influence of cosmetic products, such as alcohol containing lotions, on the skin microbiota has been investigated for the very first time. This kind of research is crucial as a disturbed skin microbiota can lead to skin barrier disruption.
The restoring/balancing effect of a certain type of Inulin on the skin microbiota has been clearly demonstrated in ex vivo and in vivo experiments. This specific type of Inulin restores the damaging effect of the antimicrobial ethanol in 4 hours on the cutaneous microbiota.