Probiotics: Skincare Green or Red Flag?

Probiotics: Skincare Green or Red Flag?

When we hear the word probiotics, we commonly think of it as a way to help our gut microbiome. Probiotics are designed to increase the good bacteria. It has been suggested by many doctors to take these probiotics on a continual basis.  Thus keeping the gut microbiome optimized.  The most common forms that you will see are the family of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.

How does this relate to skincare?  

In the last decade probiotics have become a trend in skincare culture.  Why not take the same theory and information that we know for gut health and add it to skincare to help protect our largest organ.  But, does it really work?  The first thing we need to understand is that when we ingest a probiotic, we are delivering live cultures of good bacteria into our gut.  When it comes to skincare, those live cultures would become rancid quickly based on current available formulations.  

Probiotics… Yellow Flag:

At present, there is not enough compliance from manufacturers to support the characteristics of what actually makes a probiotic work.  Most companies cannot afford to run clinical studies that would scientifically prove the product to be effective.  

There are many variables to making probiotics work in skincare.  Some forms of probiotics cannot withstand moisture; some can only target a specific layer of the skin, while others can only target certain cells.  Some of them will breakdown as soon as they are exposed air.  Some of them require a carrier, like a peptide.  So, does this mean there is no point? Not exactly!

Even though science is still emerging, there is great promise in treating many skin conditions. Those who suffer with eczema, psoriasis, acne, inflammation, and sensitivities, seem to have a decrease in their conditions.  One study suggested that the pH of the skin was normalized and overall barrier function had improved.  

So, while we wait for science to catch up with the benefits of probiotics in skincare, what can you do? Start your own probiotic skincare journey with some great options Listed below.

Sorella Apothecary-Yogurt Kale Eye Concentrate

GlyMed Plus Oxygen Deep Pore Cleanser

Revision Skincare Pumpkin Enzyme Mask

Lira Clinical BIO Caviar Crème

*As always, please consult with your Pomp assigned esthetician to see which options are right for you!