Probiotic skincare products help to correct different types of skin conditions including premature aging, acne, hypersensitivity, dullness, rosacea and inflammation.
The bacteria of the skin microbiome has a crucial protective effect. They help maintain the immune system, repair damage, and protect against allergens and UV exposure. Bacteria also limit damage caused by oxidation and improve the hydration and elasticity of the skin. However, an unbalanced microbiome is linked to many skin conditions such as eczema, allergies, dandruff, acne or dermatitis.
Conventional care products, which are responsible for 90 percent of chemicals on the skin according the Human Microbiome Project analysis, are implicated in the increasing number of skin problems in the Western world. Common moisturisers, soaps and shampoos can undermine the skin microbiome, due to the antimicrobial preservatives they contain or their alkaline pH. An increasing number of industry experts have seized this market opportunity by developing skin care products adapted to the skin microbiome.
CLINICAL STUDIES
According to Dr. Erin Gilbert MD, Ph.D., probiotics are one of the most cutting edge concepts in skin care today ((Derm. Times, Aug.8, 2016. Dr. P. Ferris). Probiotic based topical products assist and correct different types of skin conditions including premature aging, acne, hypersensitivity, dullness, rosacea and inflammation. When taken internally, probiotics will help the digestive and immune system and therefore are beneficial for all skin types. Probiotics have proven themselves to be a powerful factor to achieve healthy, balanced and radiant skin.
Studies indicate that alterations in the skin microflora play a significant role in conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne and skin cancer. Although probiotic bacteria provide benefits to the skin, live cultures are generally not preferred in cosmetics, so many probiotic skin care products are formulated using bacteria fragments or metabolites. There is currently not any scientific research that supports the idea that live cells are more effective than products containing metabolites or fragments.
Some probiotics found in yoghurt help to increase ceramide production in keratinocytes, which are the cells that create our skin, and they can strengthen the lipid barrier of the skin and make it more resilient to dryness. ( reference Bockmuhl D. et al IFSCC 20006:9:1-5)
“For skin, probiotics work in a similar way as they do for the digestive system,” explains New York dermatologist Dr. Francesca Fusco. "They help it to remain in a balanced state." The skin microbiome cleans and protects our skin by preventing development of hostile bacteria and maintaining an optimum pH. It also boosts the skin’s immune system and increases cell metabolism. From maintaining a healthy skin microbiome to treating flare-ups and breakouts of all sizes, adding probiotic skincare to your daily routine actually works.
