What comes to mind when you hear the word “probiotic”?
Perhaps yogurt, fermented foods like kimchi, or even dietary supplements for gut health. Or maybe that sauerkraut recipe that popped up on your Instagram reels. But did you know that the world of probiotics goes far beyond that?
Scientifically speaking, probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in proper amounts, provide health benefits to the host. The term “probiotic” comes from the Greek pro bios, which literally means “for life.”
Today, these tiny organisms are gaining prominence not just in the field of nutrition but also in research and articles about skincare. If you want to learn how they can benefit your skin and why they’re revolutionizing the cosmetics industry, stick with me in this blog.
What are probiotics?
Before discussing their benefits for skin, let’s clarify what probiotics are. They are live microorganisms, often called "good bacteria," that provide health benefits when applied to or ingested by the body.
Probiotics help balance the microbiome, a complex ecosystem of microorganisms that live in various parts of the body, such as the gut. But did you know that your skin also has its own microbiome? Probiotics can help maintain that balance.
In skincare, probiotics are applied topically or taken orally in the form of supplements that promise to support your skin from the inside out.
What do probiotics do for the skin?
When applied topically in products designed to improve skin health, probiotics aim to accelerate and improve skin health, solving skin problems (such as acne, atopic dermatitis, rosacea, psoriasis, skin cancer, and wounds), improving skin appearance (such as anti-aging, anti-wrinkle, moisturizing, and skin treatment), or preventing skin problems.
These effects make probiotics a promising tool in skincare to tackle various concerns and promote a healthy appearance.
Here are five of their main benefits:
Strengthen the skin barrier
The skin barrier is the skin's first line of defense, made up of cells and lipids that prevent water loss and block contaminants, bacteria, and allergens.
Probiotics strengthen this barrier by balancing the microbiome, stimulating antimicrobial peptides, and promoting the synthesis of essential lipids. This not only improves hydration but also increases the skin's resistance to external aggressors and reduces sensitivity.
Balance the skin microbiota
Dealing with redness, irritation, or conditions like eczema? Probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe sensitive skin. By reducing inflammation, they help create a smoother and more even skin tone.
Control acne
Acne can be caused by an overgrowth of harmful bacteria on the skin. Probiotics help restore balance, keeping breakout-causing bacteria in check. They also reduce the redness and inflammation associated with pimples.
Improve hydration
Certain probiotic strains enhance the skin's ability to retain moisture, which is ideal for those with dry or dehydrated skin.
Protect against aging
Probiotics can even help combat premature aging by neutralizing free radicals, those pesky molecules responsible for fine lines, wrinkles, and dull skin.
Do probiotics really help the skin?
As we’ve described, probiotics have proven useful in alleviating or even preventing a wide range of skin conditions and their characteristic symptoms.
Studies suggest that they can improve skin hydration, reduce acne breakouts, and alleviate conditions like rosacea and atopic dermatitis (eczema). Moreover, their potential extends to protecting against UV-induced damage and treating superficial wounds, making them a promising ally in skincare.
One of the biggest advantages of probiotics is that they are suitable for all skin types. They help balance the skin’s microbiome, promoting a more even and healthy-looking complexion. This has led to their growing incorporation into skincare products as a key active ingredient, as well as in supplements like capsules that work from within to support skin health.
However, it’s important to note that this is a constantly evolving field. While many people find probiotics an effective solution, not everyone will achieve the same results. The key is finding the right formula and application method for your skin’s specific needs.
For this reason, it’s always advisable to consult a dermatologist before introducing probiotics into your skincare routine. A specialist can guide you toward the safest and most effective options to maximize the benefits based on your skin type and specific conditions.
The new revolution: prebiotics and postbiotics in skincare
The world of skincare has evolved beyond traditional probiotics, with prebiotics and postbiotics now taking center stage. But what are they, and how can they benefit your skin?
Prebiotics
Prebiotics are ingredients that serve as essential "food" for probiotics, helping them grow and stay active, in other words, they are the previous instance. A common example is inulin, a compound that promotes a balanced skin microbiota. Cosmetic products with inulin can enhance hydration and encourage healthier, more resilient skin.
Postbiotics
Postbiotics are produced as a result of probiotic activity during fermentation. These include short-chain fatty acids, lipopolysaccharides, and enzymes, all of which offer highly beneficial properties. For example, they can calm inflammation and reduce harmful bacteria, making them particularly effective for treating conditions like acne.
Incorporating products with prebiotics and postbiotics into your daily routine can make a significant difference, helping to strengthen your skin's health at its root and offering natural solutions to various skin issues.
How to incorporate probiotics into your routine?
Topically:
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Use a serum or cream with probiotic components.
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Pair it with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to avoid disrupting your skin’s microbiome. Our Face Reset Cleanser is ideal, as its coconut-derived compounds bind water with oil and dirt particles, providing effective cleansing while respecting your skin’s natural oils and maintaining its pH balance.
Orally:
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Combine it with a healthy diet rich in prebiotics (like bananas and oats) to feed the good bacteria.
A small world with big promises
Every day, research in the field of probiotics advances, shedding new light on the incredible benefits these microorganisms can offer for skin health. Beyond strengthening the skin barrier, probiotics play a crucial role in balancing the microbiome, promoting more resilient skin.
Their potential isn’t limited to the surface: probiotics work from the inside out, interacting with the immune system and combating factors like inflammation and oxidative stress.
The future of skincare holds even greater innovations, but one thing is clear: these tiny allies are here to transform the way we understand skin health.
