Explore the Best Probiotics for Skin

Understanding Skin Probiotics and the Microbiome

Our skin is a natural barrier composed of epithelial cells that directly contact the outside environment and continuously distinguish between friendly and unfriendly substances. Similar to the gut microbiome, scientists have discovered that our skin also has a microbiome. Like the gut microbiome, the skin microbiome consists of billions of microorganisms living on and in our skin. Scientists have discovered a bidirectional relationship between these two microbiomes called gut-skin axis. 

The skin microbiome is crucial to our health. It is our first line of defense, stopping the invasion of unfriendly microorganisms and substances into the body. When the skin microbiome breaks down, this critical first barrier can allow unfriendly bacteria to enter. 

Because of the relationship between the skin and gut, the effective use of probiotics for skin entails a combination approach of topical and internal probiotic use. 

How Probiotics in Skincare Support Your Skin

Balancing Your Skin's Microbiome

Recent studies have seen that adding friendly bacteria both internally and externally can boost skin health. Microbial competition, when different microorganisms on the skin compete for resources, space, and nutrients, is crucial for maintaining a healthy, balanced skin microbiome. Beneficial bacteria compete with harmful ones, helping to preserve diversity and protect against pathogens. 

The process is influenced by factors like skincare products, pH levels, and environmental conditions. Probiotic interventions can alter this competitive landscape; for instance, introducing Lactobacillus strains can inhibit acne-causing bacteria. Understanding and supporting healthy microbial competition is becoming increasingly important in modern skincare approaches, as it can help address various skin issues and promote overall skin health.

Strengthening Your Skin Barrier with Probiotics

Probiotics enhance epithelial integrity by strengthening the skin barrier function, promoting a balanced microbiome. They improve moisture retention by increasing ceramide production and reducing water loss across the skin. (Ceramides trap moisture.)

These beneficial bacteria also protect against environmental stressors by forming a protective shield, combating harmful pathogens, and reducing oxidative stress caused by UV radiation and pollution. This multi-faceted approach contributes to overall skin health and resilience.

Potential Benefits of Probiotics for Skin Health

Skin aging results from internal and external factors, primarily oxidative damage. While aging is inevitable, genetics and lifestyle choices can influence its pace. Microbial dysbiosis, characterized by reduced bacterial diversity, can accelerate aging, increase inflammation, and impact overall health. 

As the body's largest organ, the skin is particularly susceptible to these microbial changes. Scientists are exploring both ingested and topical probiotics to improve skin health, with studies showing benefits in elasticity, redness reduction, wrinkle smoothing, and hydration enhancement. This research aims to leverage probiotics for overall health and skin rejuvenation.

The Science Behind Probiotics for Skin Benefits

The medical community has long recognized the benefits of probiotics for overall health. Slowly, science is beginning to overcome the myths about probiotics in skincare. 

 Recently, attention has turned to their potential in skincare. Since 2010, scientists have been applying gut microbiome research to develop probiotic formulas for skin health, focusing on restoring the skin barrier and microbiome. While initial studies show promise, researchers emphasize the need for further investigation into specific strains that can target various skin conditions.

Incorporating the Best Probiotics for Skin Care

There are three ways to increase your consumption of probiotics.

Probiotic foods –  Foods like low- or no-sugar-added yogurt, kombucha, Kimchee, miso, sauerkraut, and kefir are good sources of probiotics. Many foods today have added probiotics although it's unclear if the microorganisms added to these foods will be alive when they reach your table. 

Supplements – Carefully check the quality of the probiotic supplement you choose; most are manufactured in a factory environment and contain ingredients you might not want in your body.  Dr. Ohhira's probiotic supplements are cultured naturally for three years and fed only natural fruits, vegetables, and pure water. The three-year duration of the culturing process strengthens the microorganisms and prepares them to survive the journey from the stomach to the intestines. 

Topical probiotics –  Again, read the label of the probiotics you apply for skin benefits. Dr. Ohhira's Skin Care Products are created with the utmost purity and care using all-natural ingredients and containing no synthetic fragrances, stabilizers, deodorants, preservatives, chemicals, or artificial colors.