The skin is the largest organ of the human body and has multiple functions. This physical barrier offers protection against damaging environmental factors such as ultraviolet light, germs, and injury. The skin also helps to regulate the body’s:
- Temperature
- Water balance
- Responses to invading bacteria and viruses
In addition, a diverse range of friendly microorganisms reside on the skin, known as the skin’s microbiome. This component of the skin also has important functions. These microbes have a two-way relationship with skin cells, the immune system, and even the gut microbiome.1 They also affect the skin’s ability to function as a barrier, to heal wounds, and to potentially influence the health of other body systems
