Get Rid of Acne Naturally: The Power of Probiotics
Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, and poor diet. While there are many treatments available, ranging from over-the-counter creams to prescription medications, many people are turning to natural remedies to get rid of acne and achieve healthy glowing skin. One such remedy that has gained popularity in recent years is the use of probiotics. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They are found in many fermented foods, such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. In this article, I will explore the power of probiotics in treating acne naturally both topically and with ingestibles.
Indeed there is a remarkable connection between probiotics and skin health and I will discuss how probiotics work, which types are most effective, and how to incorporate them into the diet for optimal results. I will also touch upon the work being undertaken by the UK company Deepverge with their Labskin and Skin Trust Club and the role of personalised medicine for the future.
Understanding acne and its causes
Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages. It is characterised by the presence of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads on the face, neck, chest, and back. Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes can also contribute to the development of acne.
The causes of acne can vary and may include genetics, hormonal imbalances, and poor diet. Hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation, and pregnancy can all contribute to the development of acne. A diet high in sugar and processed foods may also increase the risk of developing acne.
What are probiotics and how do they work?
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They help to keep your gut healthy by restoring the natural balance of bacteria in your gut. This can help to improve digestion, boost the immune system, and reduce inflammation.
Probiotics can also be beneficial for the skin. When taken orally, probiotics can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to reduce the severity of acne. When applied topically, probiotics can help to improve the skin’s natural barrier function, which can help to prevent the growth of bacteria that can contribute to the development of acne.
If you’re interested to learn about some of the top products with probiotics included, then you may wish to check out this top 6 product review.
Benefits of using probiotics for acne treatment
There are several benefits to using probiotics for acne treatment. Firstly, probiotics can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to reduce the severity of acne. Secondly, probiotics can help to improve the gut microbiome, which can help to improve overall health and reduce the risk of developing acne.
Thirdly, probiotics can help to improve the skin’s natural barrier function, which can help to prevent the growth of bacteria that can contribute to the development of acne. Lastly, probiotics can help to reduce the side effects of antibiotics that are often prescribed for acne treatment.
Studies and research on probiotics and acne
Several studies have been conducted on the use of probiotics for acne treatment. One study found that taking a probiotic supplement for 12 weeks resulted in a significant reduction in acne lesions. Another study found that applying a probiotic cream to the skin for 8 weeks resulted in a significant reduction in acne lesions.
Another study found that taking a specific strain of probiotics called Lactobacillus acidophilus for 12 weeks resulted in a significant reduction in acne severity. These studies suggest that probiotics may be an effective treatment option for acne.
Who should take probiotics for acne
Probiotics may be beneficial for anyone who suffers from acne. However, they may be particularly beneficial for people who have a history of antibiotic use. Antibiotics are often prescribed for acne treatment, but they can have side effects such as upset stomach, diarrhoea, and yeast infections.
Taking a probiotic supplement can help to restore the natural balance of bacteria in the gut and reduce the side effects of antibiotics. Probiotics may also be beneficial for people who have a history of digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
How to incorporate probiotics into your skincare routine
Probiotics can be incorporated into your skincare routine both topically and with ingestibles and there are now many supplements available. I recently provided a run down of what I think are the ‘top 5 probiotic supplements for skincare‘.
For ingestibles
There are several types of probiotics that can be taken for acne. Look for probiotic supplements that contain Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Streptococcus thermophilus. These strains have been shown to be effective in reducing acne severity.
When choosing a probiotic supplement, be sure to read the label and avoid supplements that contain artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives. These ingredients can irritate the gut and exacerbate acne symptoms. It is also important to choose a supplement that is shelf-stable and does not require refrigeration.
Foods that contain probiotics such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut can also be beneficial for acne. Be sure to choose plain, unsweetened varieties to avoid added sugars that can exacerbate acne symptoms.
For topical probiotics
When it comes to topical probiotics, look for skincare products that contain Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Streptococcus thermophilus. These strains have been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and preventing the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
Other skincare ingredients that work well with probiotics for acne include niacinamide, tea tree oil, and salicylic acid. These ingredients can help to reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
It is important to avoid skincare products that contain harsh ingredients such as alcohol, benzoyl peroxide, and sulphates. These ingredients can irritate the skin and exacerbate acne symptoms.
Labskin and Skin Trust Club
Deepverge, a UK-based company, has developed a system called Labskin. Labskin is a living skin model that can be used to test the efficacy of skincare products. The system uses artificial intelligence to analyse the microbiome of the skin and determine which products are most effective for different skin types.
The Skin Trust Club is a platform that allows consumers to access personalised skincare recommendations based on their skin microbiome. Consumers can submit a skin swab and receive a personalised report that includes recommendations for skincare products that are tailored to their skin type. This really is the future for skincare with personalised health planning.
Conclusion
Probiotics are a natural and effective treatment option for acne. When taken orally, probiotics can help to improve gut health, reduce inflammation, and reduce the severity of acne. Applied topically, probiotics can help to improve the skin’s natural barrier function, prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria, and reduce inflammation.
When incorporating probiotics into your skincare routine, be sure to choose products that contain strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Streptococcus thermophilus. Be sure to also avoid products that contain harsh ingredients such as alcohol, benzoyl peroxide, and sulfates.
With the work being undertaken by companies such as Deepverge with their Labskin and Skin Trust Club, there is an increasing focus on personalised skincare that is tailored to an individual’s skin microbiome. This approach could revolutionise the way we approach skincare and help us to achieve clearer, healthier skin.