The Skin Flora System
The term skin flora (also commonly referred to as skin microbiome) refers to the microorganisms which reside on the skin; typically human skin.
Many of them are bacteria of which there are around 1000 species upon human skin ,most are found in the superficial layers of the epidermis and the upper parts of hair follicles.
Skin flora is usually non-pathogenic, and either commensal (are not harmful to their host) or mutualistic (offer a benefit). The benefits bacteria can offer include preventing transient pathogenic organisms from colonizing the skin surface, either by competing for nutrients, secreting chemicals against them, or stimulating the skin’s immune system.
It’s well documented that bacteria play an important role skin’s overall health. Research has shown that good bacteria in and on our body could have a positive impact on skin disorders such as acne rosacea, reactive skins, eczema as well as aging. Microbes have an important role to play when it comes to inflammatory skin diseases. Healthy bacteria not only keep harmful bacteria in check but also help the skin’s immune system function optimally.
There are many things we do every day that upset the microbe balance in the skin
- over treating the skin
- over cleansing
- daily application of antibacterial substances has led to the adaptive immune system failing
We do live in an “over cleansing” world, the need for clean has now been shown to upset this flora system.
A Study by Richard L. Gallo, MD, PhD, professor of medicine of Dermatology and the Dermatology explains how the lack of the bacteria staphylococci on the epidermis can lead to over inflammatory response on the skin.
With this information it makes sense why we see so many changes to our clients skin once we move them over to Dermaviduals.
As Dermaviduals creates the perfect flora system of the skin all the microbes that live on the skin have a happy home and all the microbes that should not be on the skin don’t hang around as it is not a welcome environment for them
This Study has lead us to our new concept called the Dermaviduals Detox.
This 6-8 week programme will change the state of the flora system thus reducing inflammation, strengthening the skin and making the flora system a friendly one.
This is an ideal way to introduce the range to a new client especially the ones that love their Liz Earle or think washing with soap is a good idea.
Tips on how to explain why the skin needs a detox
We all know what is it to detox the body, the purpose is to eat less refined foods, alcohol, caffeine and sugar as a build-up of these foods in our digestive system cause inflammation that will make us sluggish can lead to ill health. Once you have omitted these foods your gut will work as it is meant to you will have more energy, you look and feel better .
The skin is no different as the products we often buy are not always what we think and the ingredients in them can upset the flora system of the skin. Over time this can show in the skin especially if you suffer from skin complaints such as rosacea, sensitivity, acne and premature ageing.
It is not just topical products that can upset the flora system but also things like exposure to air conditioning, central heating, swimming pools and flying. Prescription drugs, especially antibiotics and Roaccutane, can continue to upset the flora system for years after you take the drugs.
By putting a client on to the Dermaviduals Detox you are simple allowing the skin to rebuild its flora system and strengthen the Stratum Cornum. This will result in less inflamed skin that is less susceptible to acne, rosacea, sensitivity and signs of aging. Their skin will look 100% better.
Setting Expectations
Like any detox system the client will have to stop using the products she has at home- they can continue using their makeup for now. She will have to do so and follow your advice for 6-8 weeks. We advise clients to put all the products they have around the house into a box for this detox time. Out of sight, out if mind.
(If she carries on using her Clinique toner or when she stays at her boyfriend’s house she using his shower gel this detox will not work.)
After 6-8weeks there will be an improvement in the skin. Make sure to give your clients realistic expectations, this is a detox not a magic wand. The skin will not become flawless in 6-8 weeks, it will improve as to the base line of how the skin first looked. If the client complies and carries on listening to you, the skin expert, her skin will look great.
What to expect
It is possible in the first 10 days that your client’s skin may become dry. If they are spotty some new spots may appear, this is all normal. If it is winter or the skin becomes very dry you can add a sample size 5 ml OM Ointment (we charge £3.00 ) for them to add on when needed .
Do note that some of these products may not last 8weeks so do warn your client she may need an extra enzyme, active or cream
After 6-8 weeks hopefully there will be enough change for the client to trust you and trust the products. She can carry on with a detox kit or buy the product single when she runs out.
The products that you go on to recommend for her and advise her to use will depend on how her skin looks.
Sometimes a client may want to go back to the products that she used before the detox. That is fine if you feel there is nothing that could re-upset the flora system.
Add on’s
If your clients experience any dryness within the 6-8 week period you can advise her to enzyme a bit more regularly or give her a sample 5ml of OM Ointment to get her through this phase.
Further reading
http://www.corneotherapy.org/articles/118-the-anti-inflammatory-action-of-skinmicroflora
https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2009-11/uoc–sbm111709.php
