Skin Care with Probiotics

Just as the morning egg has become a breakfast staple, bacteria have also shed their negative reputation over time. For years, people were advised to scrub away bacteria to achieve clear, glowing skin. However, current scientific findings suggest that we may want to reconsider harsh cleansers, instead opting to incorporate beneficial bacteria into our skincare routine and diet.

Our bodies are home to a microbiome that is crucial for maintaining balance, known as homeostasis. This microbiome comprises approximately 100 trillion microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, with the majority residing in our gut.

Recent research has revealed that not all bacteria are harmful; in fact, many play a beneficial role in our health.

The Gut-Skin Connection: A Surprising Link

While the gut serves as the control center for our microbiome, the skin possesses its own unique microbiome. Like other organs in the body, skin functions optimally when in a state of homeostasis. It is home to a diverse array of bacteria, most of which are beneficial and harmless.

Research indicates that the gut and skin microbiomes are closely interconnected. Dr. Gretchen Frieling, a board-certified dermatopathologist, explains, “There are many similar microorganisms found both in the gut and on the skin’s surface.”

According to Frieling, maintaining a balance of “good” and “bad” bacteria in the gut is essential for skin health, aiding it in acting as an effective barrier against toxins and pathogens. A healthy gut and skin contribute to the production of anti-inflammatory molecules, helping to combat conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.

Moreover, studies have shown that an unhealthy gut microbiome can lead to inflammatory skin issues. Conversely, a balanced microbiome can strengthen the skin’s resilience against environmental stressors, reducing symptoms like redness, dryness, and visible aging signs, as noted by Frieling.

Probiotics and Prebiotics: Nourishing Your Skin from Within

Diet and stress can disrupt our microbiome balance, but introducing beneficial bacteria, particularly through probiotics, can help restore it.

Probiotics are live, beneficial bacteria that support the digestive system. One study found that participants who took probiotic supplements over a period of 12 weeks experienced reduced transepidermal water loss (leading to hydrated skin). Another study revealed that probiotics improved skin barrier function, while a third noted a decrease in skin sensitivity.

Prebiotics, a specific type of dietary fiber that nourishes beneficial gut bacteria, are equally important, according to Frieling. “To support your gut’s good bacteria, you need a diet rich in indigestible fibers,” she says. “Without food sources, probiotics struggle to thrive.”

Topical Probiotics: A Game Changer for Skin Care

The belief that we must scrub our skin clean of all dirt, oil, and bacteria is outdated. Today, there are skincare products enriched with beneficial bacteria.

Topical probiotics have demonstrated an ability to boost ceramide levels (which retain moisture in the skin) in individuals with eczema, reduce acne lesions and harmful bacteria, and alleviate skin sensitivity.

It’s important to speak with a healthcare professional, as probiotic skincare may not suit everyone. “Current research indicates these products should be avoided by those who are immunosuppressed or have a low white blood cell count,” warns Frieling.

Ultimately, both our microbiome and skin aim for balance. This balance can be achieved through probiotic supplements, topical products, or a diet rich in fermented foods. Once our skin finds this equilibrium, it will become calmer, stronger, and more radiant, thanks to our friendly bacteria.

Simple Sources of Prebiotics

If the idea of integrating chicory root or Jerusalem artichoke into your diet sounds intimidating, fear not! More accessible prebiotic sources include foods like bananas, raw leeks, raw onions, raw garlic, apples, and flaxseeds.

Choosing the Right Probiotic for Your Skin

Before purchasing a probiotic product, explore the specific strains it contains and inquire about the research that supports its effectiveness. Different bacteria strains are more effective for various skin types, according to Dr. Gretchen Frieling.

Hydration for Dry Skin

If you struggle with dry skin, consider taking a probiotic supplement that includes Lactobacillus paracasei NCC 2461. This strain has been shown to enhance skin barrier strength and increase hydration levels.

This article was originally published in the March 2020 issue of alive Canada.