Are probiotics good for the skin?

Are probiotics good for the skin?

Probiotics, living micro-organisms often associated with gut health, are gaining in popularity in the skin care field. Incorporating probiotics into a skincare routine could offer a variety of skin health benefits, particularly for sensitive skin prone to skin problems. This article explores the impact of probiotics on the skin and how they can play a key role in a skincare routine.

The importance of skin microbiota

The cutaneous microbiota, often referred to as cutaneous flora, is a complex ecosystem of micro-organisms living on the surface of our skin. It plays a crucial role in skin health and appearance. Here's why skin microbiota is so important:

1. Protection against infection

The skin's microbiota acts as a protective barrier, preventing colonization by pathogenic micro-organisms. The good bacteria present on the skin, such as those of the Staphylococcus genus, produce antimicrobial substances that inhibit the growth of bad bacteria and other pathogens.

2. Reinforcing the skin barrier

A balanced microbiota contributes to the fortification of the skin barrier. This barrier is essential to prevent transepidermal water loss and protect the skin from external aggressors such as pollution and chemicals.

3. Regulation of the immune system

The skin microbiota plays a key role in modulating the skin's immune system. It helps prevent excessive inflammatory responses that can lead to inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

4. Prevention of inflammation and irritation

Beneficial micro-organisms help maintain the balance of skin inflammation. An imbalance in the microbiota can lead to chronic inflammation, causing skin problems such as acne, redness and irritation.

5. Influence on skin pH balance

The cutaneous microbiota helps maintain the skin's slightly acidic pH, which is essential for barrier function and limiting the growth of pathogenic micro-organisms.

6. Production of nutrients and vitamins

Certain bacteria in the skin microbiota can synthesize essential vitamins and other nutrients beneficial to the skin, contributing to its radiance and overall health.

7. Impact on skin appearance and aging

A healthy microbiota can help slow skin aging by reducing inflammation and strengthening the skin barrier. This can contribute to a more youthful appearance and better skin texture.

8. Interdependence with intestinal microbiota

The skin microbiota and the gut microbiota are interconnected. Gut health can influence skin health and vice versa. A balanced gut flora promotes healthy skin, while an imbalance can manifest itself in skin problems.

What cosmetics are often found in cosmetics?

1. Lactobacillus
  • Properties: Known for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Use: Often used in products for sensitive or acne-prone skin, anti-redness care and moisturizers.
  • Benefits: Helps balance skin microbiota, soothes irritation and strengthens the skin barrier.

2. Bifidobacterium

  • Properties: Helps moisturize and protect the skin.
  • Use: Commonly found in serums, anti-aging creams and moisturizers.
  • Benefits: Reduces skin sensitivity, strengthens the cutaneous barrier and improves resilience against external aggressors.

3. Streptococcus thermophilus

  • Properties: Known for their ability to increase ceramide production in the skin.
  • Use: Found in moisturizers and repair creams.
  • Benefits: Improves moisture retention, strengthens the skin barrier and helps repair dry, damaged skin.

4. Bacillus ferment

  • Properties: Bacillus ferment provides enzymes beneficial to the skin.
  • Use: Used in cleansers, masks and exfoliants.
  • Benefits: Helps gently exfoliate, cleanses pores and improves skin texture.

5. Saccharomyces ferment

  • Properties: A type of yeast used for its nutritive and moisturizing benefits.
  • Use: Found in serums and moisturizing essences.
  • Benefits: Helps nourish skin, improves hydration and adds radiance.

6. Lactococcus lactis

  • Properties: Known for its positive effects on cell renewal.
  • Use: Integrated into regenerating and revitalizing products.
  • Benefits: Stimulates cell renewal, strengthens the skin barrier and improves skin texture.

7. Bifidobacterium longum

  • Properties: Specifically beneficial for reducing skin sensitivity.
  • Use: Used in anti-aging and sensitive skin care products.
  • Benefits: Reduces redness, strengthens the skin barrier and protects against external aggressors.

8. Enterococcus faecalis

  • Properties: Has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Use: Sometimes used to treat acne.
  • Benefits: Reduces inflammation and fights acne-causing bacteria.

How can you incorporate probiotics into your beauty routine?

1. Choose products formulated with probiotics

Look for products specifically formulated with probiotics. These products are often labeled as "probiotics" or "contains ferments".

  • Cleansers: Use a gentle cleanser containing probiotics to cleanse the skin without disturbing its natural microbiota. Our cleansing gel is specially formulated to balance your microbiota.

  • Toners: Apply a probiotic toner to balance your skin's pH and prepare it for the next steps.

  • Serums: A probiotic serum can penetrate deeply and deliver concentrated benefits.

  • Moisturizers: Use a moisturizing cream formulated with probiotics to help strengthen the skin barrier and hydrate the skin.

  • Masks: Apply probiotic masks once or twice a week for intensive care.

2. Probiotic food supplements

Incorporating dietary supplements containing probiotics can improve your skin's health from the inside out by balancing your gut microbiota.

  • Capsules: Taking one probiotic capsule a day can help maintain a healthy gut microbiota, which is often reflected in healthier skin.

  • Fermented foods: Incorporate fermented foods such as yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi into your diet for a natural supply of probiotics.

3. Avoid microbiota disruptors

To maximize the benefits of probiotics, avoid products and habits that can disrupt your skin microbiota.

  • Aggressive cleansers: Avoid cleansers containing sulfates and drying alcohols, as they can upset thebalance of the skin's microbiota.

  • Exfoliating too often: Limit the use of abrasive exfoliants to avoid disrupting the skin barrier.

4. Adopt a gentle, regular skincare routine

Consistency is the key to seeing the benefits of probiotics on the skin. Adopt a gentle, regular skincare routine.

  • Morning and evening: Cleanse and moisturize your skin morning and night with probiotic products.

  • Hydration: Keep your skin well hydrated to support the skin barrier.

  • Sun protection: Use sunscreen every day to protect the skin from UV damage, which can harm the skin's microbiota.

5. Observe and adjust

Every skin is unique, and it may be necessary to adjust your routine according to your skin's reactions.

  • Listen to your skin: observe how your skin reacts to probiotic products and adjust your routine if necessary.

  • Consultation: For persistent skin problems, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.

Example of a care routine incorporating probiotics

Morning and evening:

  1. Cleaning: Use a mild probiotic cleaner.

  2. Tonic: Apply a balancing tonic with probiotics.

  3. Serum: Apply a probiotic serum for targeted benefits.

  4. Moisturizing: Use a moisturizing cream containing probiotics.

  5. Sun protection: Apply sunscreen.

Weekly :

  1. Mask: Apply a probiotic mask once or twice a week for intensive care.

By following these tips, you can effectively integrate probiotics into your skincare routine and enjoy their many benefits for healthy, balanced skin.

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