Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial to your health, especially your gut health. Probiotics are commonly found in fermented foods and supplements. However, research has shown that probiotics can also benefit your skin.
Probiotics and Skin Health:
The skin is the largest organ in the human body, and it serves as a barrier against harmful microbes, toxins, and other external factors that can damage your body. Maintaining your skin health is essential, as it plays a vital role in protecting your body from infections and diseases. However, various factors can negatively impact your skin health, including stress, poor diet, pollution, aging, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and excessive makeup use.
The use of probiotics can help you maintain a healthy skin microbiome. The skin microbiome is the community of microorganisms that live on your skin’s surface. These microorganisms work together to protect your skin from harmful microbes, support your immune system, and maintain your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Most of the studies on probiotics and skin health have focused on the benefits of topical probiotic skin care products. However, recent studies have also shown that consuming probiotics orally can have a positive effect on your skin health.
The Surprising Benefits of Probiotics for Your Skin:
Here are some of the surprising benefits of probiotics for your skin:
1. Reduces Inflammation:
Inflammation is a natural response by your body’s immune system to fight off infections and repair damaged tissue. However, chronic inflammation can damage your skin’s collagen and elastin fibers, leading to premature aging signs like fine lines, wrinkles, and dull skin. Studies have shown that consuming probiotics can reduce skin inflammation, improving the overall appearance of your skin.
2. Treats Acne:
Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages. It is caused by inflammation and bacterial overgrowth in your skin’s pores. Probiotics help reduce inflammation and restore the balance of good and bad bacteria in your skin’s microbiome, reducing the likelihood of acne flare-ups.
3. Repairs Sun Damage:
UV radiation from the sun damages your skin’s DNA, leading to premature aging signs like wrinkles, sunspots, and uneven skin tone. Probiotics can help repair the DNA damage caused by UV radiation, reducing the appearance of sun-damaged skin.
4. Hydrates Your Skin:
Adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Low levels of moisture can cause dry, flaky skin, and may even lead to eczema and psoriasis. Probiotics can support your skin’s natural moisture barrier, keeping it hydrated and healthy.
5. Reduces Redness and Irritation:
Redness and irritation are often caused by inflammation in your skin. Probiotics can help reduce inflammation, which in turn reduces redness and irritation, leaving your skin looking and feeling healthy and radiant.
The Bottom Line:
Probiotics offer a wide range of benefits for your skin. They can help reduce inflammation, treat acne, repair sun damage, hydrate your skin, and reduce redness and irritation. To enjoy the benefits of probiotics, you can include fermented foods in your diet, consume probiotic supplements, or use probiotic skin care products. However, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider if you have any underlying medical conditions before using probiotics.
