Reasons To Consider Probiotics For Acne
No one likes to wake up and discover their skin has broken out overnight! Perhaps you have tried all sorts of treatments and so-called miracle cures, yet your acne just keeps coming back.
According to theMayo Clinic, acne outbreaks can be very persistent! Even worse, acne isnt a skin problem that goes away after your teenage years as doctors once thought.
Today, medical professionals and researchers know that many different events can trigger acne and that breakouts can continue to happen throughout your life. This has led to new research to find better solutions for persistent acne, including the use of probiotics!
One Piece Of The Puzzle: Probiotics For Acne Eczema And More
New skin care products aim torestore balance to your skin bacteria in a couple of ways. Probiotic creamscontain live cultures of good bacteria. Others, called prebiotics, containingredients that fuel the growth of the helpful germs that already live on yourskin.
If youve got skin thats naturally glowing and happy, you dont need to add an extra step to your skin care routine. But if you have skin problems such as acne, eczema, rosacea or dryness, its worth considering, says Dr. Khetarpal.
Probiotic products probablywont solve these skin issues completely, she adds. There are likely severalfactors that contribute to your symptoms. But an imbalance of the skinsbacteria might be one piece of the puzzle, she adds.
Is It Possible To Develop Acne After Taking Antibiotics
Although they are often prescribed to treat persistent acne, antibiotics can deplete the natural friendly bacteria living in the gut resulting in dysbiosis and inflammation24, both potential contributing factors in the development of acne. To help support the gut when taking antibiotics, consider a probiotic supplement researched for use during and after antibiotic therapy such as Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM® which has been shown to restore balance in the gut microbiome after antibiotic treatment.
To learn more about protecting the gut when taking antibiotics, read this article about taking probiotics with antibiotics.
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Topical Probiotics And Eczema
Research shows that the bacteria colonies living on the skin are different in those who have eczema compared to those who don’t. As with the gut, it seems the skin’s microbiome isn’t as diverse in people with eczema. This can leave it vulnerable to so-called “bad” bacteria, such as Staphylococcus, to proliferate.
Staphhas been linked to eczema flare-ups, as it can trigger an inflammatory response on the skin. Those who have eczema tend to have much larger populations of Staph on their skin.
The idea behind topical probiotic therapy for eczema is to build a healthier, more diverse skin microbiome by introducing more of the right strains of bacteria onto the skin. The multitude of “good” bacteria help keep the harmful “bad” strains of bacteria in check.
How Do Probiotics Impact Acne
Because medical research isnt completely clear yet about just how probiotics do what they do, it isnt possible to explain in great detail the interaction between taking probiotics and experiencing a reduction in acne flare-ups.
However, the research is clear that there is a link between taking probiotics and helping your skin heal from acne!
As of 2014, theAmerican Academy of Dermatology announced in an official press release that probiotics could very well be the most promising future treatment for both acne and rosacea.
Researchers studying the use of probiotics to reduce acne are looking at two applications: topically and internally .
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Probiotics For Childhood Constipation
There are many reasons why a child may suffer from regularity issues, such as a low-fibre and/or high-sugar diet, dehydration, medications, and stress/anxiety. The NHS states 3 or fewer bowel movements a week may mean your child has constipation7. Rather than laxatives, trying probiotics for kids’ constipation can be a good natural option that may help in numerous ways, including aiding the movement of the colon, known as peristalsis.
One of the most researched probiotic strains for occasional constipation is Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12®, which has also been researched in children8. In clinical trials, individuals who took B. lactis BB-12® had significantly more bowel movements per week9 without causing loose stools10. The strain Bacillus coagulans Unique-IS2 has also been shown to reduce occasional constipation and straining in children25.
Another strain, Bifidobacterium breve M-16V®, has been shown to improve stool consistency in young children28. In one clinical trial, children who took B. breve M-16V® for 12 weeks had a softer stool consistency compared to the control group. If after a few days your child has still not had a bowel movement or they often suffer from regularity issues, then consult with your childs doctor.
Practitioners may also like to read Best Probiotics for Constipation on the Probiotic Professionals site.
Probiotics For Skin Glow And Increased Dermal Thickness
Theres a growing body of research from both mice and human trials showing that different strains of lactic acid bacteria are beneficial for the skin. One of these benefits being that it produces that glowy skin indicative of overall health were all envious of and trying to achieve.
One of the first studies that illustrated this involved feeding mice probiotic yogurt which resulted in noticeably shinier fur and increased dermal thickness after only 7 days!
Quick aside: beside testing probiotic yogurt, they also examined isolated lactobacillus strains by adding it into drinking water and found similar results. That is, it gave mice lustrous fur and significantly thicker skin , in addition to stronger and healthier hair growth.
In other words, probiotics will turn your pet mouse into a beautiful unicorn. But what good does that do you, right? Youre not a mouse. Who cares?
Luckily, we have some human trials to go off of as well.
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Delays Signs Of Aging
Remember that topical probiotics help increase moisture retention in the skin. When your skin is properly hydrated and moisturized, it fights against all those visible signs of aging.
Lactic acid in the probiotics helps to minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, while also tightening pores. It even gently exfoliates the skin to remove dead cells and bring forth that radiant glow waiting just underneath, instead of leaving you looking dry and dull. Probiotics may also soothe sun damaged skin to prevent the formation of wrinkles and fine lines caused by sun exposure, as well as reduce the appearance of sunspots.
What Are The Benefits Of Probiotics
When used for treating acne, medical researchers from the American Academy of Dermatology cite three potential benefits you may experience by taking probiotics topically, orally or both.
Skin Protective Shield
When used topically by being applied to the skins surface, probiotics can form a protective barrier or shield to keep away undesirable microorganisms such as bad bacteria, fungi and toxins.
The topical probiotics literally sit between the skins surface and the unwelcome toxins to prevent them from coming into contact with the skin and provoking an immune system response in the form of acne.
Antimicrobial action
When used topically and/or taken internally as a supplement , probiotics have demonstrated that they can literally attack and kill bad bacteria.
This is where the term anti-microbial comes from. The probiotics fight back against harmful microbes, or microorganisms, to prevent them from creating skin inflammation that leads to acne.
Calming the gut/brain/skin connection
As theJournal of Gut Pathology explains, researchers know there is a link between what happens in the gut, in the brain and in the skin. When harmful microbes are present in the body, this triggers the immune system to jump into action to fight back. The battle produces inflammation as the immune system clashes with the invading microorganisms.
Taking probiotics topically, internally or both is thought to calm that inflammatory response and reduce the incidence of acne breakouts.
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Using Probiotics And Prebiotics To Treat Skin Conditions
The combined usage of probiotic and prebiotic solutions has been shown to treat certain skin conditions by positively impacting the skin microbiome and the microorganisms that live within that ecosystem17.
Both skincare solutions and foods that contain probiotics and prebiotics can be used to relieve variety of skin conditions, including:
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Acne Studies have shown that topical solutions which contain the probiotic lactobacillus plantarum can help reduce acne lesions and repair the skin barriers of these suffering from acne18.
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Eczema Scientific reviews have suggested that probiotic supplements, taken by mouth, can reduce the severity of those suffering from mild to severe eczema19.
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Psoriasis Recent research has illustrated that certain strains of the probiotic lactobacillus can help reduce skin inflammation, showing promising signs that probiotics can control the effects of psoriasis20.
Iris says: Probiotics are beneficial for treating other skin issues, such as hypersensitivity, wound protection and repairing skin that has been damaged by the suns UV rays.21
Probiotic Best Practices To Keep In Mind
You should always remember that probiotics have a short shelf life. They are living organisms, which means they have a death date too. Avoid getting probiotics that are past their prime, that have been stored in sunlight, or that arrive in packaging that is loose.
Its also an excellent idea to consult your dermatologist or doctor before starting any kind of probiotics, including topical skin products. Always better to be safe than sorry! You can also expect to try more than one product before finding the right fit.
Your skins microbiome is uniquely you and the products you use must be tailored to your skins needs. When you find the right one, youll be amazed at the many benefits youll see by using probiotics for the skin. And yes, its totally worth it!
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Best Probiotics For A Child On Antibiotics
Unfortunately, taking antibiotics can wipe out lots of friendly bacteria as well as bad bacteria, this can lead to a microbial imbalance.11 If your child needs to take antibiotics and is already taking a daily probiotic supplement, you can continue giving them this but just leave a two-hour gap between the antibiotic and probiotic.
If they are not already taking a probiotic supplement, or if its more convenient, then alongside the medication you could give them a specific probiotic designed to be taken with antibiotics. There is a unique combination of extensively researched probiotic strains, Lactobacillus acidophilus Rosell 52 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus Rosell 11, which have been trialled alongside antibiotics and shown to survive to reach the gut alive 12.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG® is a very well-known probiotic strain which has been trialled for antibiotic associated diarrhoea . In one clinical trial, children who took L. rhamnosus GG® had significantly increased stool consistency and reduced stool frequency during antibiotic therapy by the 10th day compared to the control group29.
For more information on this topic, you can read Probiotics with Antibiotics
What Exactly Are Probiotics
Probiotics are present in various types of food and readily available in pill or tablet form, but they significantly differ from other supplements by their very nature: probiotics are live, healthy bacteria. These so-called friendly microorganisms are responsible for restoring balance in our bodies by making sure that the bad bacteria are kept under control and prevented from causing illnesses. Apart from that, they are known to successfully fight gut inflammation, help bodies absorb certain types of nutrients and keep the immune system in optimum shape. There are also many probiotic benefits for the skin. Probiotics can improve skin conditions and seem to have the power to prevent wrinkles and increase skins hydration, among other things.
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Should I Try Probiotics
If you are interested in adding probiotics to your diet, its worth a conversation with your healthcare provider. Many providers may suggest giving them a try to see if they help with your general health. It is important to remember that not all probiotics behave the same way and have the same effects. Each has their own individual benefits. They generally dont cause harm. One easy way to start can be by simply introducing probiotic-rich foods into your diet, like yogurt.
Before you start any supplements, make sure you talk to your healthcare provider. Your provider may be able to point you in the right direction, helping you figure out the best probiotic to take, how much to take and when to take it. A conversation is always worth the time when it concerns your health.
Probiotics For Skin Health
While we know that our overall immune health begins in our gut and that probiotics help our gut health, you might be hesitant to put microbes on your skin. Can probiotics cause the skin to be itchy or break out? Probiotics ingested or topical are not linked to skin reactions or rashes. In fact, probiotics are good for our skin health. We can get probiotic benefits from both taking them internally and applying them topically.
The use of naturally probiotic-containing foods, such as yogurt, clay, and dirt, have long been a part of natural approaches to skincare, including for bathing and topical application. Recent research has indicated that the microbiome has a significant impact on overall human health, including skin health. Skin conditions like rosacea, acne, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis can impair the skins barrier function that protects against bad bacteria. Applying probiotics directly on the skin forms a protective shield preventing skin cells from being in contact with bad bacteria and parasites. This prevents inflammation, redness, acne, rosacea, and other symptoms. Differences in the colonization of microbes in the gut and on the skin have been found in those with chronic skin conditions, such as acne, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis.
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Related: The Best Probiotics For Dogs In 2022
As you explore probiotics, check out our always up-to-date list of the best probiotics for dogs. With so many brands on the market, we did our research to make picking the right one for your dog easy!
- Constant scratching and biting at hot spots
- Sores, scabs and eczema-like skin irritation
- Widespread hair loss
- Chronic ear infections
- Gastrointestinal problems
Depending on what type of allergy is causing skin irritation, veterinarians usually prescribe antihistamines, hydrocortisone, cortisone or a combination of medications. Unfortunately, these drugs only treat the symptoms and not the source of the allergya poorly functioning immune system and GI tract. To avoid medicating their dogs with drugs that often cause unhealthy side effects, pet owners are now relying on supplementation with beneficial bacteria instead, a natural, healthier method of treating the root cause of painful, itchy skin inflammation.
Probiotics For Eczema And Allergies In Childhood
Children with allergies often exhibit a more inflammatory profile, dysbiosis and leaky gut18,19 and unfortunately, allergies and eczema often go hand in hand. The gut-skin axis is starting to be explored and we can see that conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis are linked to gut health. Probiotics can help to support gut health and modulate immune function to alleviate these issues.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG® has been shown to increase antibodies in saliva, thus potentially improving immune responses in those with hay fever20. A similar gold standard study was conducted over the birch pollen season using a combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM® and Bifidobacterium lactis Bl-04®. The strains were given to 47 children with hay fever. Generally, fewer children reported runny and stuffy noses, plus white blood cells associated with allergy were reduced in the probiotic group21.
You can find more information about probiotics for eczema in this article: Baby Probiotics.
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Probiotics Prebiotics And Skincare
Looking after your skin is important. After all, its the largest organ in your body and works incredibly hard to help keep you happy and healthy, protecting you from the suns dangerous rays and ensuring any bad bacteria are kept out and vital moisture kept in.
Of course, not all the bacteria your skin is exposed to is harmful. Just like your gut, your skin is home to hundreds of varieties of bacteria, along with other microorganisms, many of which can be classed as helpful or good and which form the skin microbiome. These bacteria contribute to a healthy complexion, working together in perfect balance to ensure a functioning ecosystem on and in your skin.
To ensure your skin is in peak condition respect the skin pH, and maintain and nurture the balance of the microbiome. There are several ways to do this, most of which centre around the skincare products you use and the foods you eat. The ingredients within these products and foods matter, so its important to be aware of what goes into your body, as well as what goes on it.
Prebiotics are non-living ingredients that are used to support the growth, survival and balance of bacteria on your skin – helping to keep your skin microbiome healthy.
Learn more about the benefits of probiotics and prebiotics, as well as how to bring these into your everyday skincare routine, including:
Benefits Of Using Probiotics For The Skin
Probiotics are not only gaining the reputation as a supplement for the good bacteria that help the digestive system it also slowly finding its way as a cosmetic product for skin. Manufacturers have discovered the intense potential good bacteria has on the skin and they are gradually experimenting adding small extracts of probiotics on their cosmetic products such as lotions, soaps, cleansers, peels, and moisturizers. Clinical research into the benefits of probiotics for the skin discovered that it could be used to
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Probiotics And Childhood Eczema Prevention
Eczema is common in babies and children, possibly due to the fact that their immune systems are still developing and are, therefore, more vulnerable to this condition.
While research on the use of probiotics as a treatment for childhood eczema is somewhat limited, the available studies have produced conflicting results.
In a review published in Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, for example, scientists analyzed 19 clinical trials on the effectiveness of probiotics in treating atopic dermatitis in children and concluded that there is not enough evidence to support their use.
A study published in Pediatrics in 2017 examined the effect of probiotics on eczema, asthma, and rhinitis in high-risk infants. Newborns were given Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG for six months. The researchers found that early supplementation with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG did not prevent the development of eczema or asthma at age 2.
However, there’s some evidence that children whose mothers used probiotic supplements while pregnant may have a reduced risk for eczema. In a research review published in the British Journal of Nutrition, investigators looked at seven previously published clinical trials and found that the use of certain probiotics during pregnancy helped prevent eczema in children ages 2 to 7.
The review’s authors noted that, while Lactobacilli bacteria appeared to protect against eczema, supplements containing a mixture of various probiotic strains did not affect eczema development.
