What is mixed skin flora?

Skin flora defines the presence of microorganisms on the skin, so mixed skin flora indicates the presence of multiple types of microorganisms on the skin. Skin flora is also known as the skin microbiome or skin microbiota.

The presence of multiple types of bacteria on the skin is normal, and many microorganisms balance the pH of the skin to make it less hospitable for transient flora, which can be harmful. Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Proprionibacterium acnes are some of the most common types of bacteria on the skin. A skin flora culture may be used to examine urinary tract infections or eye health.