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Is your skin throwing a party of its own with uninvited guests like pimples and redness? Fear not; the probiotics rescue squad is here!
Preparing for your dream date in the coming week? Uh-oh! But what to do about the sudden skin breakout? Though you can hope creams and lotions would make them disappear, what if they come out again unexpectedly? Don't let skin problems ruin your special day. Probiotics are the answer!
Yes, you heard it right. Probiotics aren’t just meant for your gut but also support your skin health. Wondering how? Read this blog to uncover probiotics’ benefits for skin and say hello to a radiant, healthier complexion!
Understanding probiotics for skin health
By now, you might be familiar with probiotics and how these beneficial bacteria confer numerous health benefits. Though they’re known for balancing your gut microbiome and promoting digestive health, did you know countless microorganisms also reside on your skin, making up the skin microbiome?
Like how probiotics control the growth of harmful bacteria and pathogens, they help protect the skin’s ecosystem by strengthening the skin barrier and reducing inflammation. With a strong skin barrier comes a lesser chance for harmful substances to creep in. So, you can rest assured that you won’t have to deal with surprise skin flare-ups.
Are supplements and foods the only sources of probiotics for skin health? You can also find these beneficial bacteria in several skincare products, which can help balance your skin microbiome and make you look your best. Let’s take a closer look at probiotics’ benefits for skin health!
Benefits of probiotics for skin health
The occasional outbursts of pimples and dark spots can dampen your spirits. Imagine addressing an audience with redness on your face or continuously scratching your hands! Though these symptoms might erupt out of the blue, wouldn’t it be better if you’re prepared to tackle them head-on? And who would’ve thought probiotics can be a game-changer in skincare? Let’s understand the benefits of probiotics for skin health:
- Improves skin barrier function: Does your skin feel so dry and dull? The outermost layer of the skin acts as a barrier against harmful environmental pollutants. However, you might experience extreme skin dryness, irritation, and sensitivity, when its defence falls. Probiotics fortify the skin barrier by producing antimicrobial peptides, which help kill harmful bacteria and moisturise your skin.
- Reduces inflammation: Inflammation leads to several skin problems, such as acne, psoriasis, and rosacea. Probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties, so they help reduce redness and swelling associated with these skin conditions.
- Fights ageing: Do you often get mocked due to your pale ageing skin? Probiotics boost collagen production, enhancing skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles. They also mitigate oxidative stress and prevent the harmful effects of UV-induced damage, making the skin look more youthful and resilient.
- Helps manage skin diseases: Are you tired of dealing with chronic skin issues like eczema and psoriasis? Probiotics can restore and maintain the delicate balance of skin microbiota. This balance is crucial in alleviating symptoms like redness, itching, and irritation, leading to noticeable relief and comfort.
Watch the insightful video below to manage psoriasis. Our expert talks about why it happens and what you can do to improve the condition.
Even if probiotics offer a natural approach to improving skin health and managing various skin conditions, then are they safe? Do they have any side effects? Let’s find out!
Side effects of taking probiotics for skin health
Are you obsessed with achieving flawless skin? Despite trying out several creams and lotions, you’ve finally found respite through probiotics. It’s easy to get lost in probiotics’ benefits for the skin, but remember, the effects of probiotics can vary among individuals. So, do not overlook their side effects, or your skin will suffer!
Considerations while using oral probiotics
Like those vitamin supplements, you can conveniently intake probiotics for skin health orally. Though taking them does not cause significant issues, you might experience mild digestive disturbances like bloating and gas. These symptoms are typically temporary and would pass off as soon as your body adjusts to changes in gut bacteria. In rare cases, probiotics can lead to constipation, nausea, or abdominal cramping. Interestingly, some might feel increased thirst, particularly with yeast probiotics.
Considerations while using topical probiotics
Since probiotics benefit the skin, you can also find forms to apply. They nourish your skin microbiome, so chances are minimal for you to experience digestive issues. However, they can cause allergic reactions, especially if you have sensitive skin. It's wise to start with a patch test, where you can apply the product to a small area and observe for at least 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions.
Also, check product labels for possible allergens like soy, lactose, or eggs, as these can be present in some probiotic products. If you’re allergic to these foods, take special note of the product you choose. You can also consult a dermatologist for more detailed guidance.
So, you’ve seen the two sides of probiotics for skin care. Now, which probiotic should you choose? Discover the best probiotic strains that help nourish your skin!
Best types of probiotics for skin
Skin problems are unlike any other health condition; you might face difficulty facing others since they're visible. This might make you desperate for long-lasting and quick solutions. Though probiotics seem to be an ideal pick, are all probiotics the same? If you wish to address your skin problems effectively, look for the following strains in the skincare products:
- Lactobacillus plantarum can improve skin hydration and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus is known for its moisturising properties and effectiveness in reducing acne lesions. It also helps protect the skin from UV-induced damage.
- Bifidobacterium longum helps calm sensitive skin and reduce irritation.
- Streptococcus thermophilus increases ceramide levels, easing the symptoms of eczema.
- Staphylococcus epidermidis prevents the growth of infection-causing bacteria on the skin.
Do you know which strains target different skin problems? Now, it’s time to use them and see the results. But wait—are you confused by the different probiotic options? Let’s see how you can use them for skincare!
How to use probiotics for skincare?
Have you ever had to choose between your two favourite dishes—biryani and fried rice? When the options are diverse, your mind will be conflicted. Are you in a similar situation now, confused about choosing oral or topical probiotics for skin health? Look at the following ways to use probiotics, and the answer will pop up on its own:
- Oral consumption: Oral consumption is easy and convenient; you just need to swallow a pill or incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, etc., into your diet. The main advantage of supplements is you get a concentrated dose of beneficial bacteria. Moreover, as they’re ingested orally, they do not just improve your skin but also enhance your gut health.
- Topical consumption: Besides nourishing your skin from within, topical probiotics have gained popularity as a way to directly influence your skin's health. As you apply topical probiotics, they have a better effect on your skin microbiota. They form a protective layer on your skin, preventing its contact with harmful microbes, thus reducing the symptoms of acne, redness, and inflammation. You can find topical probiotics in the following forms:
- Creams
- Serums
- Masks
- Foundations
- Balms
- Gels
- Cleansers
However, the best way to use probiotics is a combination of both. Combining oral and topical probiotics helps tackle skin issues from multiple angles. While oral probiotics help manage systemic issues and bolster gut health—which indirectly benefits the skin—topical applications work their magic directly on the skin.
If you think maintaining a youthful and radiant complexion is a far-fetched dream, probiotics are here to make it a reality. From combating signs of ageing to finding relief for various skin conditions, the benefits of probiotics are truly remarkable. But do not expect to see results in a day or two; patience and consistency are key.
If you’re convinced of probiotics’ benefits for the skin, you must be ready to try them out. Visit The Good Bug’s website to discover a range of high-quality probiotic supplements for your skin and gut. Let us join in your journey towards better health and skin. Contact us today to mould a happier, healthier version of you!
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10385652/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8955881/
https://www.healthline.com/health/probiotics-skin-care
https://skinkraft.com/blogs/articles/benefits-of-probiotics-in-skin-care
https://www.healthshots.com/beauty/skin-care/probiotics-for-skin-benefits/
https://www.medicinenet.com/how_do_probiotics_improve_skin/article.htm
https://dermatrichs.com/7-benefits-of-probiotics-for-your-skin/
https://www.prevention.com/health/a40027827/probiotics-benefits-for-skin/
