: These microscopic arachnids live in your pores and eat dead skin and oil. While usually harmless, an overgrowth can lead to conditions like rosacea.
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 skin-bugs
: 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 : These microscopic arachnids live in your pores
: They help maintain a slightly acidic pH level, which is vital for overall skin health and resilience. The Bad Guys: When Bugs Cause Trouble While the idea of microbes living on you
: Use bug repellents and protective clothing when in areas prone to biting or burrowing insects to prevent travel-related skin diseases.