Your skin is home to a community of microorganisms known as the skin microbiome. These microorganisms are a normal part of our bodies.

And everyone's microbiome is different. Think of your skin as a landscape: some areas are oilier, some drier, others warmer or more moist. Each creates a different environment for microorganisms.

The microorganisms living on our skin aren't simply passengers. Some resident bacteria produce substances that can help keep particular unwanted microbes in check. Skin microbes also interact with our immune system and take part in the chemistry happening on the skin's surface.