AN INTRO TO PROBIOTIC SKINCARE

An Introduction to Probiotic Skincare 

(Keep Calm and Yakult On) 

So we know that probiotics are linked to fabulous levels of gut health, but did you know that gut health is linked to good skin? Ergo, probiotics = the new frontier in beauty. To start with, probiotics are live bacteria and yeast (ew) that keep your gut healthy by playing the role of ‘good’ bacteria in your body. Probiotics keep your gut microbiome healthy and balanced, which means it keeps the rest of your body happy too- especially your skin. Studies have been linked to a balanced microbiome reducing acne, eczema, and dry skin. 

How do you use them 

Probiotics are a dual benefit bacteria, i.e. inside and outside health. 

With probiotics, beauty begins inside (the belly, specifically). Eating a nutrient-rich diet, with wellness practices like exercise, meditation, and even journaling all help in kick-starting a healthy gut, and also improve our lives in small and positive ways, which then helps our skin to heal and glow. For example, fermented foods are a godsend for yummy probiotic foods- so our favorites kimchi, miso, and those daily Yakult shots are all helping to improve your gut health. 

As for the outside, probiotic enriched topical beauty products like moisturizers and serums have biome balancing properties. Our skin is its own, thriving ecosystem, which probiotic products help flourish by regulating natural balance, and harnessing the good bacteria to help your skin cells live their best lives.   

Perks of using probiotics

If we haven’t convinced you to use probiotics yet, here’s our final shot at it. Probiotics have a whole host of advantages for our skin. Read on to find out more: 

1. They protect our skin barrier: Bio-fermented Lactobacillus is a type of probiotic that is microbial and helps in bolstering our skin’s natural defenses, reducing skin damage. It also protects against environmental damage and free radicals. 
2. They reduce inflammatory skin issues: Not only do they protect our physical skin barrier but also our immunological barrier, which helps wounds heal faster, and calms inflammation. Probiotics have a calming effect on other living microorganisms on your skin and prevent them from attacking each other. Acne breakouts, eczema, and rosacea are all skin issues that can be controlled by a good probiotic product.  
3. Smooths and brightens: Due to the presence of AHAs (Alpha-Hydroxy Acids) which occur naturally in probiotics, it encourages smooth cell turnover, which leads to smoother and brighter skin. Natural AHA’s also help in removing dead skin cells gently, without damaging the skin barrier.
4. Hydrated and rebalances: Glowing skin requires pH levels and hydration levels that are balanced with the skin’s natural moisture levels. Topical probiotics help to do just that- they nourish and hydrate the skin’s surface, protect the stored hyaluronic acid, and prevent moisture loss- important for those with sensitive skin. 

And there you have it! Probiotics have a ton of health and skin benefits, perfect for your insides and outside, to make you the true That Girl of your dreams. 

Remember, consistency is key with anything, and that’s especially important with probiotics. But probiotics don’t always work for everyone and are not a necessity in your routine. So as always, you do you!