Probiotics and Skin Health: Can They Help Treat Acne and Eczema?
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial for our health. They are known to promote gut health by restoring the balance between good and bad bacteria. Recent studies have suggested that probiotics can benefit not just gut health, but also skin health. Acne and eczema are two common skin conditions that people battle with, and research has shown that probiotics can help in treating them to a considerable extent.
Probiotics and Acne
Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles are clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This can lead to pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads on the face, chest, and back. Acne can be triggered by various factors such as hormonal changes, stress, and diet. While there are many treatments available for acne, probiotics are a relatively new approach that has shown promising results.
Studies have suggested that certain probiotics can reduce the severity of acne by reducing inflammation and improving the skin’s barrier function. Probiotics achieve these effects by:
- Reducing the number of harmful bacteria on the skin
- Stimulating the production of anti-inflammatory compounds in the skin
- Strengthening the skin’s natural barrier function and preventing the colonization of harmful bacteria
A study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that a topical application of Lactobacillus acidophilus reduced acne lesions in individuals with mild to moderate acne. Another study published in the Journal of Dermatological Science demonstrated that a combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacterium bifidum improved the skin’s barrier function and reduced the severity of acne in individuals with oily skin.
Probiotics and Eczema
Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Eczema can be triggered by various factors such as genetics, allergies, and environmental factors. While there is no cure for eczema, probiotics have shown promise in reducing the severity of symptoms and improving the skin’s barrier function.
Studies have suggested that certain probiotics can reduce the severity of eczema by reducing inflammation and improving the skin’s barrier function. Probiotics achieve these effects by:
- Reducing the number of harmful bacteria on the skin
- Stimulating the production of anti-inflammatory compounds in the skin
- Strengthening the skin’s natural barrier function and preventing the colonization of harmful bacteria
A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that a daily oral dose of Lactobacillus rhamnosus significantly reduced the severity of eczema in infants. Another study published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology found that a combination of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium lactis improved the skin’s barrier function and reduced the severity of eczema in adults.
The Bottom Line
Probiotics have shown promise in improving skin health and treating acne and eczema. While more research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind probiotics’ effects on skin health, the evidence so far is encouraging. Adding probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut to your diet can be a good way to improve your gut and skin health. Topical application of probiotics can also improve skin health and reduce the severity of skin conditions such as acne and eczema. If you are suffering from skin conditions, consult a dermatologist before incorporating probiotics into your routine.
