The present invention relates to isolated live bacterial strains of the species
Staphylococcus epidermidis selected from the group consisting of the
bacteria deposited at the CNCM under deposit numbers I-5688, I-5689, I-5904, I-5691, I-5692, I-5693, I-5694 and I-5695, as well as compositions comprising them. The present invention also relates to the use of such strains for preventing a decline in and / or strengthening the
skin barrier function in an individual, for improving
skin moisturization, for improving
skin quality, in particular the quality of
dry skin, for preventing and / or treating cosmetic signs associated with
dry skin, in particular selected from tightness,
itching, discomfort, a dull
complexion,
rough skin and pronounced microrelief of the skin, and / or for preventing and / or treating pruritus, in particular pruritus of skin affected by skin disorders, such as
atopic dermatitis, and / or for the prevention and / or treatment of
atopic dermatitis, as well as to a non-therapeutic cosmetic method for caring for keratinous materials, said non-therapeutic cosmetic method comprising at least one step of topically applying such strains or compositions to said keratinous materials.