Much like our beloved breakfast staple, the egg, bacteria have long faced a negative perception. For years, we believed that scrubbing away bacteria was the key to achieving clear and radiant skin. However, recent scientific findings suggest that it may be time to reconsider our approach, moving away from aggressive cleansers and embracing beneficial bacteria—both topically and in our diets.
The human body hosts a complex ecosystem known as the microbiome, crucial for maintaining balance and overall health. This microbiome is home to approximately 100 trillion microbes, inclusive of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, the majority of which are found in the gut.
In recent times, extensive research into the human microbiome has revealed that not all bacteria pose a risk; in fact, many are beneficial and essential to our well-being.
The surprising link between gut health and skin
The gut serves as the control center for our body’s microbiome, but our skin has its own unique microbiome. Similar to other organs, our skin maintains its protective, temperature-regulating, and moisture-retaining functions effectively when in a state of balance. It hosts a variety of bacteria, many of which are not just harmless but also advantageous.
Research indicates a strong connection between the gut and skin microbiomes, as both share a wealth of comparable microorganisms. “Many similar organisms exist both in the gut and on the skin,” explains Gretchen Frieling, MD, a board-certified dermatopathologist.
“A balanced population of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria in the gut enables the skin to serve as an effective barrier against toxins and pathogens,” states Frieling. “When both your gut and skin are functioning optimally, your body increases the production of anti-inflammatory compounds that help tackle skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.”
Notably, research supports that a disrupted gut microbiome can result in inflammatory skin conditions. Conversely, a well-balanced microbiome can enhance skin strength, providing better protection against factors that contribute to redness, dryness, and accelerated signs of aging due to environmental stress, according to Frieling.
Enhancing beauty with probiotics and prebiotics
Elements such as dietary choices and stress can lead to an imbalance within our microbiomes. Fortunately, we can restore this balance by incorporating beneficial bacteria into our diets through probiotics.
Probiotics are “good” live bacteria that provide numerous health benefits, particularly for the digestive system. For instance, a study showed that participants taking probiotic supplements for 12 weeks experienced reduced transepidermal water loss (the evaporation of water from the skin that can lead to dryness) and noticed improvements in skin hydration. Another study highlighted the role of probiotics in enhancing skin barrier function, while a third indicated reduced skin sensitivity with probiotic intake.
Additionally, Frieiling emphasizes the importance of consuming prebiotics—special types of dietary fiber that nourish beneficial gut bacteria. “A diet high in indigestible fiber (prebiotics) is crucial to sustain the good bacteria in your gut; without a proper food source, probiotics cannot thrive,” she advises. “If you take probiotics without prebiotics, maintaining beneficial microorganisms becomes significantly more challenging.”
Topical applications of probiotics
In the past, the emphasis was on keeping our skin extremely clean from dirt, oil, and bacteria. Today, we have a deeper understanding, and many skincare products now incorporate beneficial bacteria.
Topically applied probiotics have demonstrated several advantages, including increased ceramide levels (which help retain moisture) in individuals with eczema, decreased acne lesions and harmful bacteria, and reduced sensitivity for otherwise healthy skin.
It’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider, as probiotic skincare may not be suitable for everyone. “According to ongoing research, such products are not advisable for individuals who are immunosuppressed or have low white blood cell counts,” warns Frieling.
In harmony with our microbiome, our skin’s goal is simply to achieve balance. Through the use of probiotic supplements, specialized skin care products, or a diet rich in fermented foods, we can help our skin reach its optimal state of health and radiance—thanks to our friendly neighborhood bacteria. It’s reassuring to see bacteria reclaiming its positive reputation.
Simple sources of prebiotics
If the idea of incorporating ingredients like raw chicory root or Jerusalem artichoke sounds intimidating, fear not. A plethora of more common foods, such as bananas, raw leeks, raw onions, raw garlic, apples, and flaxseeds, are rich in prebiotics.
Choosing the right probiotic for you
Before purchasing a probiotic product, it’s essential to check the specific strains included and inquire about the research supporting its effectiveness. Dermatopathologist Gretchen Frieling, MD, notes that some strains are more effective for particular skin types.
Lacking hydration for your skin?
If dry skin is a concern, consider taking a probiotic supplement containing strains of Lactobacillus paracasei NCC 2461, which has been shown to enhance skin barrier function and boost hydration.
This article was originally published in the March 2020 issue of Intomodel Canada.
