Boost your “good bacteria” for a glowing skin
The probiotic awakening over the last few years has motivated health-conscious people to include more ‘good’ bacteria in, not just their daily diets, but also in their skincare routines.
Research proving the extent of the protection provided by the skin’s microbiome has gained momentum over the last few years. We now fully appreciate that the healthier the skin, the better it looks.
Good bacteria don’t just reside on the skin’s surface but can also be found down in the subcutaneous fat layer, impacting overall health and immunity. Studies have shown that when the skin is stripped of its flora, by cleaning, it can cause acne breakouts, irritation and hyperpigmentation flare-ups. Stripping the skin’s natural barrier can also impair the immune system’s interaction with other parts of the body.
Every person’s microbiome is unique. It will differ depending on where you live, the type of skin you have, and your age. For instance, if you have oily skin – your microbiome will be significantly different to someone with dry skin, and country dwellers will differ from those living in the city.
Age also impacts on the body’s ability to produce molecules such as hyaluronic acid and collagen, both of which are essential for hydrated, smooth skin, and also affect the microbiome.
The beauty of skin, however, is that it adapts to each individual’s environment. After a skin breakout, the skin will attempt to rebalance itself.
As in gut health, skincare products containing prebiotic and probiotic ingredients will feed and encourage good bacteria to flourish. With these reinforcements, the skin’s natural barrier layer of defence is improved and can keep the bad bacteria at bay.
Prebiotics are the foods that promote bacterial growth and probiotics are the live microorganisms. Plant extracts that are used in probiotic ingredients are good for the microbiome, as they help to boost the skin’s defences.
Probiotics function for the skin, the same way as they do for the digestive system.
Dr Francesca Fusco, a New York dermatologist, says, “They assist in maintaining a balanced state.” This translates to a complexion that is neither too dry nor too oily and a skin that successfully repels inflammatory environmental conditions.”
So, for a flawless complexion, one must start by feeding your skin’s flora.