Nu Allumé Blog

The skin microbiome is influenced by a variety of factors, both intrinsic (internal) and extrinsic (external). Here’s a detailed look at the key factors affecting the skin microbiome:Intrinsic Factors1. Age: The skin microbiome changes throughout different life stages: Infancy: Newborns have a unique microbiome influenced by the mode of delivery (vaginal birth vs. cesarean section). Adolescence: Hormonal changes during puberty can alter the microbiome, often increasing oil production and changing microbial composition. Adulthood: The microbiome stabilises but can be influenced by lifestyle and health. Elderly: Aging can lead to changes in skin structure and immune function, affecting the microbiome. 2. Gender: Hormonal differences between males and females result in different skin microbiomes. For instance, males typically have higher sebum production, which can influence the types of bacteria present.3. Genetics: Individual genetic makeup affects skin properties such as oil production, moisture levels, and immune responses, all of which influence the microbiome.4. Skin Site: Different areas of the body have distinct microbiomes due to variations in skin environment (e.g., oily vs. dry areas, presence of hair follicles).Extrinsic Factors1. Environment: Climate (humidity, temperature), pollution, and UV exposure can significantly impact the skin microbiome.Urban vs. Rural: People in urban environments may have different microbiomes compared to those in rural areas due to varying levels of pollutants and lifestyle differences.2. Hygiene and Skincare Practices: The frequency of washing, the use of soaps, lotions, and other skincare products can disrupt or support the natural microbiome.Antibacterial Products: Overuse can kill beneficial bacteria along with harmful ones, disrupting the microbiome balance.3. Diet and Nutrition: Diet can influence the microbiome by affecting skin health and immune function. For instance, diets high in sugar and fat may promote conditions like acne, which are associated with specific microbial changes.4. Health Status and Medical Conditions: Chronic conditions such as diabetes, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis can affect the skin microbiome. Immunocompromised individuals often have altered microbiomes.5. Medications: Antibiotics and other medications can disrupt the skin microbiome. Antibiotics, in particular, can reduce microbial diversity by killing both harmful and beneficial bacteria.6. Lifestyle Factors: Exercise, stress levels, and sleep can indirectly affect the skin microbiome by influencing overall health and immune function.7. Contact with Others: Close physical contact with other people or animals can lead to the transfer of microbes, influencing one's skin microbiome.Understanding these factors is crucial for developing strategies to maintain a healthy skin microbiome, which is essential for overall skin health and disease prevention.

Aging is a beautiful journey, one that brings wisdom, strength, and a deeper understanding of oneself. For women over 50, embracing a holistic approach to self-care can significantly enhance quality of life, ensuring not just physical wellness, but also mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Holistic self-care emphasises the interconnectedness of all aspects of our being, advocating for a balanced lifestyle that nurtures every part of who we are. Here’s how women over 50 can embrace holistic self-care to thrive in this enriching stage of life.1. Nourish Your BodyProper nutrition is the foundation of holistic self-care. As metabolism slows down and nutritional needs change, it's essential to adapt your diet accordingly.Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats.Hydration: Stay well-hydrated to support bodily functions and maintain skin elasticity. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day.Supplements: Consider supplements to address specific needs, such as calcium and vitamin D for bone health, omega-3 fatty acids for heart and brain health, and probiotics for digestive wellness. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.2. Stay ActiveRegular physical activity is crucial for maintaining strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. It also plays a significant role in mental and emotional well-being.Exercise Routine: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week, combined with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week.Flexibility and Balance: Incorporate exercises like yoga or Pilates to improve flexibility, balance, and reduce the risk of falls.Enjoyable Activities: Engage in physical activities you enjoy, whether it's dancing, gardening, swimming, or hiking, to ensure you stay motivated and consistent.3. Mental and Emotional WellnessEmotional health is as vital as physical health, particularly as life brings new challenges and transitions.Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness and meditation to reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance emotional resilience. Apps like Headspace or Calm can guide beginners.Therapy and Counselling: Seeking professional help when needed is a strength, not a weakness. Therapy can provide support for dealing with grief, anxiety, depression, or life changes.Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a therapeutic way to process emotions and reflect on your journey.4. Social ConnectionsStrong social ties are essential for emotional health and longevity.Stay Connected: Maintain relationships with family and friends. Regular social interactions can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.Join Groups: Participate in community groups, clubs, or classes to meet new people and stay engaged in activities you love.Volunteer: Giving back to the community can provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment.5. Spiritual HealthSpirituality can provide comfort, purpose, and a sense of connection to something greater than oneself.Explore Spiritual Practices: Whether through religion, meditation, nature walks, or creative expression, find practices that resonate with you and nurture your spirit.Gratitude: Cultivate a gratitude practice to focus on the positive aspects of your life. Writing down three things you're grateful for each day can shift your perspective and enhance well-being.6. Skincare and BeautyTaking care of your skin is an important aspect of self-care, especially as you age.Skincare Routine: Adopt a skincare routine that includes gentle cleansing, moisturising, and sun protection. Look for products that are microbiome friendly and address the specific needs of mature skin, such as increased hydration and collagen support.7. Sleep and RestQuality sleep is essential for overall health and well-being.Sleep Hygiene: Maintain a regular sleep schedule, create a restful environment, and avoid screens before bedtime.Relaxation Techniques: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or listening to calming music to improve sleep quality.8. Lifelong LearningKeeping your mind active and engaged is crucial for cognitive health.New Hobbies: Explore new hobbies or revisit old ones. Learning new skills keeps the brain sharp and provides a sense of accomplishment.Educational Pursuits: Take up courses, attend workshops, or join book clubs to continue learning and expanding your knowledge.Holistic self-care for women over 50 is about nurturing every aspect of your being, physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. By embracing a balanced lifestyle that caters to all these areas, you can enhance your well-being and enjoy a fulfilling, vibrant life. Remember, self-care is a personal journey, and what works for one person may not work for another. Listen to your body, honour your needs, and cherish the beautiful journey of aging gracefully.

Dry Skin During Menopause: Causes, Barrier Changes and How to Support It Dry skin during menopause is commonly linked to declining oestrogen levels, which can reduce lipid production and weaken the skin barrier. As hydration decreases and water loss increases, skin may feel tight, flaky and persistently dry. If you are searching for dry skin menopause, why does menopause cause dry skin, post-menopause dry skin, perimenopause dry skin or menopause skincare for dry skin, you are experiencing one of the most common menopause skin changes. Here is what is happening beneath the surface. Why Does Menopause Cause Dry Skin? Menopause can contribute to dry skin because oestrogen supports hydration, collagen production and lipid balance. As oestrogen declines, sebum production may decrease, natural lipid levels can fall and the skin barrier may become less efficient, which can increase transepidermal water loss. Lipids act like mortar between bricks in the outer skin layer. When lipid levels decline, water can escape more easily, leaving skin feeling dry and tight. This process can begin during perimenopause and continue into post-menopause. What Is the Skin Barrier and Why Does It Matter? The skin barrier is the outermost layer of the skin that helps prevent moisture loss and helps protect against environmental stress. During menopause, barrier integrity may weaken, water retention may decline and skin can become more reactive. When people search for menopause dry skin, they are often experiencing barrier vulnerability rather than simple dehydration. Supporting the barrier is central to improving comfort. Perimenopause Dry Skin vs Post-Menopause Dry Skin Perimenopause dry skin can appear gradually. You might notice products that previously felt fine now feel insufficient or irritating. Post-menopause dry skin can feel more constant, as oil production often continues to decline. In both stages, dryness may present as rough texture, flaking, fine lines appearing more visible and increased sensitivity. For a broader overview of menopause skin changes, see our complete guide to menopause skin changes. Why Moisturiser Alone Sometimes Isn’t Enough Moisturiser can provide relief, but if the skin barrier is not supported, water loss may continue. Effective menopause skincare for dry skin often focuses on supporting lipids, maintaining hydration and avoiding over-cleansing. Switching to a gentle cleansing crème that does not strip natural lipids can support comfort. Explore our Postbiotic Papaya Cleansing Crème. During the day, many women benefit from a barrier-supportive moisturiser formulated for hormonally changing skin. Explore our Aloe & Snow Peach Postbiotic Day Moisturiser. In the evening, a richer moisturiser can provide additional comfort overnight. Explore our Postbiotic Berry Night Moisturiser. Does the Skin Microbiome Change During Menopause? Emerging research suggests hormonal changes may influence the skin microbiome, the community of microorganisms that supports barrier function and overall skin health. When hydration and oil production shift, skin pH may fluctuate and microbial diversity may change. While research continues to evolve, maintaining a supportive skin environment during menopause remains a practical approach. How to Support Dry Skin During Menopause If you are experiencing dry skin during menopause, consider these practical steps: Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser Apply moisturiser to slightly damp skin Choose barrier-supportive formulations Avoid unnecessary antibacterial products Maintain consistent sun protection Frequently Asked Questions About Menopause Dry Skin Why is my skin suddenly so dry during menopause? Declining oestrogen can reduce lipid production and weaken the skin barrier, which increases water loss and can lead to persistent dryness. Can perimenopause cause dry skin? Yes. Hormonal shifts during perimenopause can affect hydration and barrier function years before menopause is complete. Does post-menopause dry skin improve? Some changes can stabilise, but reduced oil production may continue, which means consistent barrier support can remain important. What is the best skincare routine for menopause dry skin? A menopause skincare routine for dry skin often includes gentle cleansing, barrier-supportive moisturisation and consistent sun protection. The Bottom Line Dry skin during menopause is a common change associated with hormonal transition. It can reflect declining oestrogen, reduced lipid production and increased water loss. Understanding the reasons behind menopause dry skin helps you choose skincare that supports hydration, barrier function and overall comfort. For a complete overview of how hormones can affect the skin, explore our guide to menopause skin changes.Updated December 2025

The skin biome, also known as the skin microbiome, plays several crucial roles in maintaining the health and functionality of the skin. Here are some of its key functions:Protection Against Pathogens: The skin microbiome acts as a barrier against pathogenic microorganisms. By competing for nutrients and space, beneficial microbes prevent harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi from colonising the skin.Immune System Modulation: The skin microbiome interacts with the skin's immune system, helping to train and modulate immune responses. This interaction ensures that the immune system can effectively respond to pathogens without overreacting and causing inflammation or other issues.Maintenance of Skin Barrier Function: The microbiome helps in maintaining the skin’s pH and integrity. By producing fatty acids, they contribute to the skin’s natural barrier function, keeping it moisturised and preventing dryness and irritation..Regulation of Inflammation: The skin microbiome helps to regulate inflammatory responses. By maintaining a balanced microbial community, the skin can avoid chronic inflammation, which is associated with various skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.Production of Antimicrobial Substances: Some skin microbes produce antimicrobial peptides and other substances that directly inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms, adding an extra layer of defence.Nutrient Production and Utilisation: The skin microbiome can produce certain nutrients and metabolites, such as vitamins and fatty acids, which are important for skin health and function.Influence on Skin pH: The microbiome helps maintain an acidic skin pH, which is crucial for preventing the growth of pathogenic bacteria that prefer a neutral or alkaline environment.Repair and Wound Healing: Some microbes in the skin microbiome play a role in wound healing by promoting tissue repair and reducing the risk of infection during the healing process.The skin microbiome is integral to the overall health and function of the skin, performing a myriad of essential roles. From acting as a barrier against pathogens to modulating immune responses, maintaining skin barrier integrity, and regulating inflammation, the skin microbiome is a dynamic and complex ecosystem. It produces antimicrobial substances, essential nutrients, and helps maintain the skin's acidic pH, which collectively contribute to its protective and reparative functions.The interplay between the skin microbiome and the body's immune system highlights its importance in preventing infections and promoting wound healing. Understanding and preserving the delicate balance of the skin microbiome is crucial for preventing and managing various skin conditions, ultimately contributing to overall skin health and resilience.

Our mission is to research, develop, and test formulations for optimal microbiome health. One of our main goals is to address skin dysbiosis, an imbalance in the skin's microbiome that can cause dryness, redness, acne, and other issues. Understanding what causes dysbiosis is essential for creating skincare products that restore balance and promote healthy skin.Recent advances in genetic sequencing have allowed us to analyse the skin microbiome in great detail. This helps us identify the specific strains of bacteria and other microorganisms on the skin, which we use to develop customised skincare products.Microbiome-focused skincare is more than just choosing 'organic' or 'natural' ingredients for marketing. We aim to ensure every element of a product serves a specific purpose. Depending on the product's goal, we include beneficial compounds such as:Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs): These are produced by beneficial gut bacteria and offer health benefits like reducing inflammation, promoting a healthy gut microbiome, and improving metabolic health. In skincare, SCFAs strengthen the skin barrier, improve hydration, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.Postbiotic Peptides: These are small chains of amino acids produced by probiotic microorganisms. They help stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and improve skin elasticity and firmness.Bio-Fermented Botanicals: Using our advanced strain-specific fermentation, we optimise the fermentation process to produce high-quality and effective botanicals. This is especially useful for extracting difficult or poorly absorbed bioactive compounds.During fermentation, microorganisms consume sugars and other compounds in the botanical material, producing metabolites like organic acids and enzymes. These enhance the bioavailability of the active compounds, making them more easily absorbed and effective.Fermented botanical actives also benefit the microbiome. Some microorganisms produce compounds that support the growth of beneficial bacteria on the skin, promoting a healthy and diverse microbiome.Overall, using strain-specific fermentation to produce fermented botanical actives is an innovative way we create effective and safe natural ingredients for our skincare range.

The answer isn’t straightforward. Many natural skincare and clean beauty advocates support the use of essential oils. However, when examined through the lens of microbiome science, essential oils are not universal solutions for healthy skin. A healthy skin microbiome depends on balance and diversity of microorganisms. In carefully controlled concentrations, certain essential oils have been shown in studies to exhibit anti inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and may influence oil production and overall skin appearance. However, essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Without careful formulation, they may increase the risk of irritation, sensitisation, photosensitivity and dryness. Their broad spectrum antimicrobial activity may also disrupt beneficial skin microorganisms and affect the skin’s protective barrier and pH environment. For a brand formulated around the microbiome–menopause connection, this matters. We therefore choose not to include essential oils in any Nu Allumé formulations. As product developers, our responsibility is to select ingredients in appropriate concentrations that support the specific needs of perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause skin. Our microbiologists draw on decades of industry expertise and global research to guide formulation decisions. Advanced microbiome analysis, including next generation DNA sequencing, informs our understanding of how ingredients interact with the skin ecosystem. Essential oils can offer potential benefits, but they also carry risks, particularly for hormonally changing skin. At Nu Allumé, we prioritise microbiome-focused, evidence informed ingredients selected to support the skin barrier and overall skin health.