Expert Advice | How do Probiotics help Acne?

Restoring Balance in the Gut Microbiome

Gut-Skin Connection: The gut microbiome (the community of bacteria in your digestive tract) plays an important role in skin health. An imbalance in gut bacteria, often called dysbiosis, can increase inflammation in the body, which can lead to or worsen acne.

Reduced Inflammation: Probiotics can help restore a healthy balance in the gut by increasing beneficial bacteria. This can reduce systemic inflammation, which is closely tied to acne severity and frequency.

Improving Skin’s Microbiome and Barrier Function

Skin Microbiome Health: Like the gut, the skin also has its own microbiome. A healthy skin microbiome can help protect against acne-causing bacteria like Cutibacterium acnes (formerly known as Propionibacterium acnes).

Strengthening the Skin Barrier: Probiotics can support the skin’s natural barrier function, helping it retain moisture and resist harmful bacteria. This can reduce breakouts and improve the skin’s ability to repair itself.

Regulating Sebum Production

Balanced Oil Production: Certain strains of probiotics may help reduce excess sebum (oil) production, which is often a factor in clogged pores and acne formation. By supporting a balanced skin environment, probiotics can make the skin less prone to oil buildup and, consequently, less prone to acne.

Reducing Stress-Related Acne

Mind-Gut-Skin Axis: Stress is a known contributor to acne, as it can increase the production of cortisol, a stress hormone. The gut-brain-skin connection suggests that probiotics may reduce stress and anxiety by influencing the gut microbiome, which in turn can lead to clearer skin.

Effective Probiotic Strains for Acne-Prone Skin

Research has shown certain strains to be beneficial for those with acne-prone skin:

Lactobacillus Acidophilus: Known for improving gut health, this strain has been associated with reduced inflammation and improved immune response, both of which can positively impact skin health.
Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG: Known to help with balancing gut flora and reducing inflammation, this strain is thought to improve acne symptoms when taken as an oral supplement.
Lactobacillus Plantarum: Often found in topical probiotic skincare, it’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to support a balanced skin microbiome.

How to Use Probiotics for Acne

Oral Probiotics (Supplements and Fermented Foods)

Supplements: Choose a probiotic supplement with a range of strains, particularly those listed above, we love Optibac Everyday and Skin Clear Biome
Diet: Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha, which introduce beneficial bacteria and help support gut health naturally.

Additional Tips for Using Probiotics for Acne

Consistency: Probiotic benefits are cumulative, so consistent use over several weeks to months is essential to see noticeable improvements in acne.
Consult a Professional: If you’re new to probiotics or have underlying health concerns, consider consulting a dermatologist or nutritionist to determine the best probiotic strategy for your skin.

Summary

Probiotics can support acne-prone skin by improving gut health, reducing inflammation, balancing sebum production, and strengthening the skin barrier. With consistency, probiotics can help reduce breakouts and contribute to clearer, healthier skin.