Probiotics, these live micro-organisms, are now increasingly present in our vocabulary when it comes to skin health. But what exactly are probiotics? How can they help improve skin health, especially for those who suffer from skin problems? In this article, we will explore the role of probiotics in cosmetics, their impact on skin flora, and the benefits they offer for overall skin health.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics, often referred to as "good bacteria" or "friendly bacteria," are live microorganisms with beneficial effects on human health. Their main role lies in maintaining the balance of our body's microbial flora, which has a significant influence on our general well-being.
These microorganisms are found naturally in various parts of our body, with a notable presence in the digestive system. They are also present on the skin and in other mucous membranes, where they help prevent the proliferation of bad bacteria.
Probiotics are closely associated with fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and miso. These foods are rich in lactic acid bacteria, natural probiotics. However, it is important to note that food supplements contain specific strains of probiotics, designed to strengthen the intestinal flora and promote general health.
The benefits of probiotics span various aspects of human health, including:
- Improved digestion
- Strengthening the immune system
Probiotics play an essential role in strengthening the immune system. They stimulate the production of antibodies and promote the activity of immune cells, helping the body defend itself against infections.
- Mental health support
Recent studies suggest a link between the gut microbiota and mental health. Probiotics may influence the brain via the gut-brain axis, potentially reducing stress and anxiety, and improving mood.
- Infection prevention
Probiotics help prevent infections by preventing the proliferation of bad, disease-causing bacteria. This can reduce the risk of gastrointestinal and urinary infections.
- Maintaining skin health
Probiotics have a growing role in cosmetics, where they promote the balance of skin flora. They reduce inflammation, strengthen the skin barrier and help maintain healthy skin.
In conclusion, probiotics, these living microorganisms, are essential allies for health, acting both inside our body and on its surface. Their positive influence extends well beyond digestion, affecting immunity, mental health, infection prevention, and even skin beauty. Incorporating probiotics into your diet and skin care routine can significantly contribute to your overall well-being.
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What are probiotics used for in cosmetics?
The skin's surface is a complex environment that harbors a wide variety of microorganisms, including good and bad bacteria. The balance of the skin microbiota is crucial to maintaining healthy skin . Probiotics, as good bacteria, help prevent microbiome imbalance, which can lead to a variety of skin issues .
Probiotics in cosmetics have the power to strengthen the skin barrier, thus improving the health of the skin in general. They accomplish this in several ways:
- Rebalancing of the skin flora
Skin flora, composed of bacteria and yeast, plays an essential role in skin health. Probiotics help keep this flora in balance by preventing the proliferation of bad bacteria. This reduces the risk of skin infections and inflammations.
A skin imbalance can cause the appearance of blackheads, acne and imperfections. The presence of probiotics and prebiotics in a range of treatments therefore makes it possible to limit their appearance.
- Improvement of the skin barrier
Probiotics strengthen the skin barrier by promoting the production of essential amino acids and lipids. A healthy skin barrier retains hydration, prevents transepidermal water loss, and protects against external aggressions, such as pollution and UV rays.
- Reduction of inflammation
Probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties that help calm sensitive, irritation-prone skin. This can be particularly beneficial for people with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. They will limit tightness and irritation.
- Support for the skin's immune system
Probiotics strengthen the skin's immune system by activating immune cells that fight infections. They help the skin to defend itself against external aggressions.
In what treatments are probiotics found?
Probiotics are increasingly present in a range of cosmetic products. Here are some of the skincare categories where you can find products containing probiotics:
- Moisturizers
Many moisturizers are now formulated with probiotics. These products help maintain a healthy skin barrier, prevent moisture loss and provide soft skin.
- Serums
Serums containing probiotics are designed to penetrate deeper into the skin, providing additional benefits. They are ideal for those looking for targeted improvement in skin health.
- Facial cleansers
Probiotic-based facial cleansers help maintain the balance of skin flora while gently cleansing the skin.
- Care mask
Moisturizing facial masks containing probiotics are perfect for occasional use. They limit dehydration and protect the skin. Applied following an exfoliation, it can balance dry skin, oily skin, combination skin and the most sensitive skin.
- Hair care
Probiotics aren't just for the skin. Shampoos and hair care products containing probiotics can promote a healthy scalp, reducing hair problems such as dandruff and itching.
What are the best natural probiotics in cosmetics?
Probiotics, these live micro-organisms that are full of benefits, are revolutionizing the world of skin care. Their ability to promote healthy skin by rebalancing the skin flora, strengthening the skin barrier, the hydrolipidic film and reducing inflammation is increasingly popular. If you are looking for the best natural probiotics integrated into cosmetic treatments, here is an overview of the essentials such as Lactobacillus and many others.
- Lactobacillus: The Superstar of Probiotics in Cosmetics
Lactobacillus is a rising star among probiotics in cosmetics. This beneficial bacteria promotes the balance of the skin microbiome by preventing the proliferation of bad bacteria responsible for various skin problems, such as acne. To find out more about what to do for oily skin, click here !
Lactobacillus also helps to strengthen the skin barrier. This barrier plays a fundamental role in preserving the skin's hydration, preventing transepidermal water loss. A strong skin barrier is essential to protect the skin from external aggressions, such as pollution and UV rays.
Skincare products containing Lactobacillus are designed to improve skin health, while reducing inflammation and promoting a radiant appearance.
- Bifidobacterium: The Anti-Aging Ally
Bifidobacterium is another renowned probiotic in cosmetics that prevents skin aging and premature skin aging. It is often included in anti-aging products because of its regenerative properties for the skin. This beneficial bacteria stimulates the production of amino acids and lipids essential to the skin barrier. As a result, the skin retains its hydration and defends itself more effectively against environmental aggressions. Combined with collagen and hyaluronic acid, it leaves skin nourished and restores elasticity to all skin types.
Additionally, Bifidobacterium promotes a reduction in skin inflammation, which is particularly beneficial for people dealing with sensitive or inflammatory skin conditions.
- Streptococcus: A Harmonious Skin Balance and a healthy glow effect
Streptococcus is another strain of probiotics commonly used in cosmetics. It plays a key role in maintaining the balance of skin flora, preventing bad bacteria from taking over. This microbiotic stability results in a reduction in skin problems, such as acne, eczema and rosacea.
Streptococcus also helps stimulate the production of skin growth factors, promoting cell regeneration and skin renewal. This gives a boost to the skin's healing process and improves its overall appearance.
- Lactic Acid: A Gentle Exfoliant
Lactic acid is a derivative of Lactobacillus, commonly used in exfoliating cosmetic products. It works gently to remove dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin. This gentle exfoliation is ideal for sensitive or irritation-prone skin.
Additionally, lactic acid promotes moisture retention, which is essential for healthy skin. It helps maintain the pH balance of the skin, which helps reduce skin problems.
What ingredients can we combine probiotics and prebiotics with?
It depends on your skin type and the desired action!
By combining them with salicylic acid, you will find a purifying and exfoliating action to eliminate impurities and fight against dull complexion by eliminating dead cells from the stratum corneum of the epidermis.
If you are looking for skin soothing and intense hydration, combine them with treatments enriched with aloe vera, jojoba oil, sweet almond or glycerin.
For very dry skin, a facial moisturizer formulated for sensitive skin, rich in probiotics and collagen and without perfumes will have the appearance of a nutritional cream sought after to combat dryness.
Conclusion
Probiotics included in cosmetic treatments are valuable allies for skin health. Probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Streptococcus are commonly used to balance skin flora, strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation. Additionally, derivatives such as lactic acid act as gentle exfoliants to improve skin texture.
Incorporating skincare products containing probiotics into your beauty routine can contribute to radiant, healthy skin. However, it is important to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your skin care routine to ensure probiotic products are suitable for your specific skin type and needs. With the right probiotics in cosmetics, you are on the path to beauty and healthy skin.