Now, you might be wondering – what is a microbiome?

A microbiome supports a diverse community of microorganisms. These microorganisms train the immune system, support the immune system, and fend off pathogenic threats. When the microbiome falls out of balance, this can lead to irritation and a damaged skin barrier. But, probiotics like lactobacillus can help to prevent imbalance because they support the microbiome. 

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are body-friendly bacteria that restore the body’s natural flora. Without causing disease, “flora” are the bacteria or microbes that thrive in a healthy human body.

Conversely, probiotics prevent the growth of microbes that are harmful. There is evidence that topical applications of probiotic bacteria can enhance the skin's natural defense barriers and help the skin to eliminate the bad stuff. They can even help to produce antimicrobial peptides that get rid of pathogens. 

Studies have also shown that some probiotics interact with the immune system to help fight infection. For instance, topical probiotics are known to block the release of inflammatory cytokines, and thus, they help to reduce skin inflammation.   

What are inflammatory cytokines?

An inflammatory cytokine or proinflammatory cytokine is a type of signaling molecule secreted from immune cells, and they promote inflammation. Fortunately, topical probiotics have been shown to help regulate them. Likewise, they can help the skin barrier to improve and recover more quickly.

What type of probiotics are used in skincare?

Some common probiotics used in skincare are lactococcus, bifida, streptococcus thermophilus, saccharomyces, lactobacillus, and leuconostoc. “Prebiotics” are also used in skincare. 

You can read here to learn how probiotics in vegan skincare are made. 

What is the difference between prebiotics and probiotics? 

Prebiotics are compounds that foster the growth or activity of beneficial microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. In cosmetic formulations, prebiotics are applied to the skin to support the growth of 'normal' skin flora.

However, little is known about the efficacy of topically applied prebiotics. Research generally addresses the health benefits of ingesting prebiotics rather than applying them.

Who is probiotic skincare for?

Probiotic skincare is known to help with inflammation, redness, hydration, and adult acne. We have some vegan and cruelty-free suggestions here that Cassandra loves.

PURE’AM Amino Acid Mild Cleanser- $23

Overall, this is a very soothing, probiotic cleanser. This works well for sensitive, irritated, or dry skin. This can work for oily skin too, but some may want a cleanser that is more clarifying.

The PURE'AM amino acid cleanser exfoliates, thoroughly cleanses, and soothes the skin with tea tree leaf extract.

How do the ingredients work?

Tea Tree

Tea tree is a plant extract known to help with inflammation and decreasing c acnes bacteria. 

Lactic Acid

The PURE’AM Amino Acid Mild Cleanser also contains apple amino acids. Apple contains lactic acid, one of the most gentle exfoliants. Exfoliating is very important because a lack of it can also lead to build-up and inflammation. 

However, lactic acid is not only exfoliating, it’s also very hydrating being that it pulls water into the skin. 

Rosemary

This cleanser includes rosemary, which can improve circulation in the skin. Rosemary also has calming and antimicrobial properties. Plus, its an amazing antioxidant. Antioxidants help to protect the skin from damage, and they reduce redness. 

Probiotics

The probiotic, lactobacillus ferment filtrate, not only soothes the skin; it allows the other hydrating ingredients like glycerin to absorb more deeply into the skin. 

Phyla Acne-fighting Probiotic Serum

The Phyla Acne-fighting Probiotic serum contains bacteriophages, an ingredient classified as a probiotic by the World Health Organization. Phyla formulated this probiotic serum to target C acnes bacteria, the bacteria that causes acne. While C acnes bacteria is normal to the body, in excess, it can cause breakouts.  

Now, that you have an overview of how probiotics work in skincare, it will be easier to create a skincare routine that boosts your skin's microbiome!