Skin microbiome and next-gen topical care: from probiotics to barrier engineering Recent research has sharpened our understanding of the skin microbiome’s role in inflammation and barrier integrity. Studies now show that dysbiosis — reductions in commensal species and overgrowth of pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus — correlates with flares in atopic dermatitis and other chronic dermatoses. This has sparked trials of microbiome-targeted approaches: topical bacterial transplants, prebiotic emollients that support beneficial strains, and formulations designed to restore lipid-rich barrier function. Early clinical data suggest some microbiome-informed topicals can reduce pathogen load and improve symptoms when combined with standard therapy, although evidence is still emerging. The practical message for clinics is to prioritise gentle, pH-balanced cleansers and routine barrier repair while watching for validated microbiome products that demonstrate clinical endpoints (reduced flares, improved symptoms) rather than only lab changes.