Question

What factors determine the microflora of the skin?

Answer 1

Factors such as moisture, temperature, sebum production, and skin surface lipids influence the microflora of the skin.

Step-by-step explanation:

Factors determining the microflora of the skin:

The microflora of the skin is influenced by several factors:

1. Moisture: The amount of moisture on the skin affects the types of microorganisms that thrive there. Moist regions, like the underarms, provide a suitable habitat for Corynebacterium and Staphylococcus bacteria.
2. Temperature: Different regions of the skin have varying temperatures, which also affect the types of microorganisms present. Warm regions, such as the groin area, harbor more microbes compared to cooler areas like the forearms.
3. Sebum production: The presence of sebaceous glands in certain areas of the skin, like the back and folds of the nose, creates an environment conducive for Propionibacteria bacteria.
4. Skin surface lipids: The concentration of lipids on the skin surface contributes to variations in the microflora. Oily areas, like the face, can host over 500 million bacteria per square inch.

The combination of these factors determines the composition and abundance of microorganisms found on different regions of the skin.