Why you think you know your skin, but you don’t.

Welcome to Episode 01 of Skin As It Should Be Podcast! In this conversation, host Geoff Paton interviews master chemist Trevor Steyn about the science of skincare and the crucial role of the skin microbiome.   He shares his journey from chemistry to ethical skincare, critiques the industry’s reliance on petrochemicals, and explains how microbiome research has transformed his approach. They discuss the dangers of “strip and replace” skincare, the importance of microbial diversity, and practical tips for supporting healthy skin.   The conversation highlights the need for microbiome-friendly products and a shift toward long-term, science-based skin health. This is a roadmap for anyone seeking real, lasting skin health.         ⏱ Timestamped Overview  01:19 - Discovering Chemistry and Early Influences  02:31 - Entry into Skincare and Industry Critique  03:55 - Petrochemicals in Skincare  05:02 - Building an Ethical Skincare Brand  06:04 - Organic Certification and Early Product Development  07:12 - Impact of the Human Microbiome Project  08:17 - Complexity of Treating Skin as an Ecosystem  08:44 - Single Molecule Applications and Unintended Consequences  09:41 - Short-Term vs. Long-Term Skincare Thinking  10:43 - Human Microbiome Project Explained  12:46 - Reformulating Products for the Microbiome  14:06 - Cost and Challenges of Microbiome-Friendly Formulation  16:34 - Differences Between Gut and Skin Microbiome Research  18:22 - Legacy Skincare vs. Microbiome Science  21:44 - Consequences of Stripping the Skin Microbiome  23:58 - Skin Health Issues from Modern Skincare  25:54 - Restoring Skin Ecology: Practical Advice  27:42 - Live Microbes and Probiotic Skincare  29:20 - Benefits of Restoring the Skin Microbiome  30:29 - Frustrations and Progress in the Skincare Industry  33:02 - Future of Skincare: Biotherapeutics and Innovation  35:25 - Key Takeaway: Treat Skin as an Ecology        💬 Quote of the Episode  “Skin should be robust, alive, diverse, and beautiful. It’s not something you can just strip and sterilize and expect to have a good long-term outcome.” – Trevor Steyn        🌐 Connect with ESSE Skincare  🔗 Website: https://www.esseskincare.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/esseskincare_/ 🎧 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/esseskincare   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EsseSkincareSA   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/esse-skincare