A new study published in the British Journal of Dermatology has uncovered a surprising connection between your skin microbiome - the ecosystem of bacteria living on your skin - and how youthful you look.

Researchers compared women aged 40–50 who appeared younger or older than their actual age. The difference?

• The younger-looking group had a resilient, stable microbiome - a balanced skin environment that resisted external stressors.

• Those showing signs of premature aging had a fragile, disrupted microbiome, leaving their skin barrier vulnerable to inflammation, dryness, and environmental damage.

Even more fascinating, one bacterial strain called Acinetobacter was found in greater abundance on youthful skin, suggesting it may be a microbial “marker” of skin vitality.

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Retinol, the Skin Barrier & Microbiome Health

The study also showed that using topical pure retinol for just 4 weeks improved:

• Hydration

• Brightness

• Elasticity

And, perhaps most groundbreaking, it shifted the skin microbiome towards a younger, healthier profile.

At Dermalist, we’ve long known that retinol is the gold standard for collagen stimulation and anti-aging, but this research reveals a deeper benefit: supporting skin barrier health and microbial balance, two key factors in keeping skin looking and acting youthful.

That’s why our Age Defying MultiComplex Serum combines clinically dosed encapsulated retinol with barrier-supportive actives like niacinamide and peptides - so you get powerful anti-aging results without the irritation that often disrupts the skin’s ecosystem.

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Why the Microbiome Matters for Aging Skin

A healthy skin microbiome works synergistically with your skin barrier to:

• Reduce inflammation that accelerates fine lines and wrinkles

• Strengthen the barrier so skin retains hydration and resilience

• Defend against environmental stressors like pollution and UV damage

• Support cell renewal for a brighter, smoother complexion

When this ecosystem is disrupted by over-cleansing, harsh treatments, or environmental stress, the skin becomes more reactive, loses elasticity, and shows signs of aging faster.

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The Future of Skincare: Beyond the Surface

This research marks a shift in how we think about anti-aging skincare. It’s no longer just about what we see in the mirror. The real future of skin health lies in building resilience, balance, and vitality at every layer - from the surface barrier to the invisible microbial world underneath.

At Dermalist, our approach goes beyond short-term changes. Every formula is designed to:

• Protect and strengthen the skin barrier

• Support a balanced, youthful microbiome

• Deliver long-term clinical results with fewer, smarter products

Because the best skin of your life isn’t just smooth and radiant - it’s strong, healthy, and resilient from the inside out.

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Ready to take the next step in your skincare?