Sometimes, the balance shifts, or unwanted guests arrive, leading to irritation or disease:
: Some friendly bugs produce oils and substances like hyaluronic acid that keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from drying out. skin-bugs
Your skin is home to a bustling ecosystem of trillions of "bugs," including over 1,000 species of bacteria and 80 species of fungi. While the idea of microbes living on you might seem unappealing, these residents—known as the —are essential for maintaining a healthy protective barrier. The Good Guys: Your Skin's Best Friends Sometimes, the balance shifts, or unwanted guests arrive,
Not all microbes are harmful. In fact, many "good" bacteria actively work to keep your skin glowing: The Good Guys: Your Skin's Best Friends Not
: Scabies mites are a more serious "bug" that tunnels under the skin to lay eggs, causing intense itching and red bumps. How to Keep Your Microbiome Healthy
: Deep within your skin, these microbes "talk" to your immune system, helping it launch protective responses against invading pathogens.
: Use bug repellents and protective clothing when in areas prone to biting or burrowing insects to prevent travel-related skin diseases.