Benefits of Probiotics for Skin Care – Why are Probiotics Good for Skin? – Digital Clinic for Skin & Hair Care That Works!

Benefits of Probiotics for Skin Care – Why are Probiotics Good for Skin?

Probiotic skincare products have been growing in popularity in recent years, and there’s no sign of this trend stopping anytime soon. You may already be aware of the benefits of good bacteria in alleviating bloating, stomach cramps, and other issues many of us suffer from, largely due to yogurt drinks that took the wellness world by storm in the late 90s.

It was only a matter of time before a slew of skincare products like cleansers, moisturizers, serums, and masks containing probiotics hit the market! Let’s take some time to delve into the world of probiotics to learn what they are and how they can help you and your skin glow.

What are Probiotics?

As mentioned earlier, probiotics are bacteria and yeasts that promote gut health. They are commonly found in yogurt and supplements, and can balance bacteria levels, keep pathogens in the gut at bay, and fight the aforementioned stomach issues, such as bloating. These properties can transfer to the skin. Using topical products can help alleviate skin issues by providing your face with a large population of good bacteria that promotes skin cell growth and skin health!

Our skin has a natural bacterial ecosystem, also known as the microbiome, which is an extremely important part of the skin and provides protection against harmful bacteria, pollution, and infection. In today’s modern world and our busy lifestyles, this ecosystem can often be disrupted, causing our skin to become drier, more stressed, and more sensitive than before. By incorporating probiotics into your skin care routine, you have the opportunity to restore the balance of the microbiome and skin barrier.

If we want to get all technical and more scientific, the correct definition of probiotics is that they are microorganisms that can benefit the host. This explains how we can get probiotics from plain forms of yogurt or supplements and apply them topically to benefit the skin.

There are two main strains of probiotics found in skin care formulas: Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium longum. I don’t blame you if these words leave you speechless, but they are both very effective and beneficial to the skin’s ecosystem.

How do probiotics work?

Probiotics in skin care work on developing bacterial strains that are stable enough to be mixed into a formula. For example, when an ingredient called Lactobacillus ferment lysate filtrate is produced, it is done by stimulating Lactobacillus bulgaricus cells to secrete elements produced in response to stress. These are then isolated and added to skincare products to provide anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits to the skin. If you are still with me, I will explain to you the three main ways probiotics work for the skin:

Probiotics form a protective shield on the skin, preventing pathogenic microorganisms (bad bacteria) and free radicals from penetrating the skin and causing a response from the skin and its immune system.

They produce natural antibiotics called antimicrobial peptides that help fight harmful bacteria on the skin and in the environment.

Probiotics help strengthen the function of the skin, i.e. they fight against external skin damaging factors such as free radicals, the sun’s harmful UV rays, and daily aggressors such as pollution.

It is also worth noting that probiotics can support the skin barrier, microbiome (the natural bacterial layer on the skin), regulate pH, fight infection, boost the immune system and keep the skin plump, among other things. In the next section, we will explore why probiotics are so good for your skin.

Why are probiotics so good for your skin?

Over the years, we have become accustomed to using skincare products that make us feel “clean”, which often results in products containing antimicrobials that are too harsh on the skin in most cases and remove the bad bacteria from our bodies.

Now I want to tell you something fundamental, which is that we need these “bad” bacteria on our skin. For the skin to be at its healthiest, there must be a balance of 85% good bacteria and 15% bad bacteria. In order to maintain the balance of the natural ecosystem, both “good” and “bad” bacteria must be present on the skin at all times.

The skin’s microbiome, which is made up of trillions of different bacteria, has a very complex connection to the bacteria in our gut, proving that popular drinks and supplements like miso and kefir hold the healthy secret to a clear, beautiful complexion ahead. Not only do probiotics soothe irritated skin and restore the skin’s natural protective layer, they also protect the skin from the signs of aging.

What skin problems can probiotics help with?

Similar to calming and soothing the gut and any stomach issues, these benefits also apply to many skin issues and discomforts.

As topical probiotic research has evolved, various probiotic strains and extracts have been incorporated into skincare products, resulting in a wide variety of moisturizers, cleansers, masks, and more, all designed specifically to relieve skin concerns. This ensures that all skin types can find a product that works for them and their skin type.

Below are some examples of skin issues that have the most promise of being cured with the help of probiotics.

Rosacea

People with rosacea notice inflammation of the skin that leads to redness, primarily on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. This rash is often accompanied by bumps and pimples, and can be very uncomfortable.

By using probiotics, redness is reduced, and the skin barrier is strengthened and soothed while the breakout is soothed. The burning and itching subsides, and the skin feels less dry and more comfortable.

Eczema

Similar to the soothing effects of rosacea, eczema can also be treated with the help of probiotics. Studies have found that using probiotics can reduce inflammation and discomfort. Topical products are great for soothing existing breakouts, while taking supplements can prevent future eczema patches from appearing.

Recent studies back this up, showing that pregnant women with a family history of eczema and similar conditions can prevent their newborns from suffering. Taking probiotics can be safe throughout pregnancy and for six months after birth, especially while breastfeeding, to reduce the chances of a baby developing eczema. Since there is evidence linking eczema in infants to good gut health, expectant mothers taking this supplement can promote a balanced and healthy gut and digestion, which over time has been linked to eczema in their children.

Anti-Aging

Since the skin is under the full force of aggressors every day, it’s understandable that our skin loses its youthful, healthy complexion too quickly. Especially considering we’re used to feeling “clean” by using harsher, more chemical-based products.

Probiotic formulas can fight these environmental aggressors that often lead to sensitivity, dullness, and premature aging!

While not fully proven, probiotics have been shown to boost collagen production in the skin, making the face more firm, plump, and radiant. When the face is dry, overexposed to the sun, and pollution causes inflammation and redness, the skin can look much older than it actually is. By incorporating probiotics into your skin care routine, you can undoubtedly reverse the signs of all of these factors.

What is the difference between prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics?

It can be a bit overwhelming, but all three are vital to the skin microbiome.

Prebiotics – act as food/fertilizer that promotes the growth of microorganisms.

Probiotics – these are the microorganisms themselves.

Postbiotics – these are the fragments of dead bacterial cells that remain on the skin.

Prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics make up this complex microbiome and ensure that the existing layer of microorganisms is maintained rather than simply replaced. The easiest way to prevent this is to avoid antibacterial products and instead choose non-skin creams and oil-based cleansers. Use plenty of moisturizer and avoid long, hot showers (even in the winter months, this feels great) as well as excessive skin exfoliation.

It’s time to give up the idea that “clear skin is the goal” because you’re unknowingly damaging your skin over time.

What skin types benefit from using probiotic skincare?

Generally speaking, all skin types can benefit from introducing probiotics into their skin care routine. The soothing, regenerative properties ensure that your complexion remains clear, pH balanced, and hydrated looking, among other things!

So, at some point, we need to start educating ourselves on the importance of our skin microbiome and say goodbye to the conventional products and their harmful, skin-drying formulas that we’ve become accustomed to. It’s time to get rid of the dirty mentality. Your skin will thank you!

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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