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Power of Probiotics for Perfect Skin Balancing Your Skin Microbiome

Probiotics in skincare products are not typically live because most skincare products require the use of preservatives to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms. Instead, probiotics in skincare products are typically in the form of bacterial lysates or bioferments.

May 10, 2023

Probiotics have been making waves in the wellness industry, and now they are taking the beauty world by storm. These beneficial bacteria, commonly found in our gut, are being incorporated into skincare products to provide a more holistic approach to skin health.

The concept is simple: by balancing the microbiome on our skin, we can help regulate oil production, reduce inflammation, and support overall skin health.

With a growing body of research supporting the role of probiotics in promoting skin health, it’s no wonder that these innovative products are becoming increasingly popular. So, whether you’re a skincare enthusiast or simply looking for a way to support your skin from the inside out, it’s time to embrace the power of probiotics in skincare!

2. Probiotics in skincare products

3. Prebiotics and postbiotics are also the buzzwords in the skincare world, but what do they actually mean?

4. Benefits of probiotics in skincare products

5. Should you incorporate probiotics into your skincare routine?

6. Here are the top 3 ingredients that protect your skin microbiome.

7. But is it enough to use a skincare product that has those ingredients in the INCI list?

1. What does it mean that ingredients protect the skin microbiome?

The skin microbiome is a diverse group of microorganisms that exist on the skin’s surface and have a vital role in maintaining healthy skin. A balanced skin microbiome provides protection against harmful bacteria, inflammation, and environmental stressors. However, exposure to pollution, harsh skincare products, and stress can disturb the skin microbiome’s equilibrium.

To preserve a healthy balance of these microorganisms, it is important to use ingredients that safeguard the skin microbiome. Prebiotic, probiotic, and postbiotic ingredients can promote the growth and activity of beneficial microorganisms while hindering harmful ones, leading to a balanced skin microbiome and a stronger, more resilient skin barrier.

In essence, maintaining a healthy skin microbiome is essential for promoting healthy, glowing skin and preventing common skin issues such as acne, inflammation, and premature aging.

Check our Skin Journal to learn more about skin microbiome:
How the health of our skin microbiome influences everything from dryness to acne

2. Probiotics in skincare products

Probiotic skincare products are those that contain various strains of probiotics in their ingredients.

It’s important to note that the term “probiotics” is often used to describe any product that contains beneficial microorganisms, regardless of whether or not the microorganisms are live.

Some skincare products may contain live cultures of probiotics, but these are typically not shelf-stable and must be stored in a refrigerated environment.

Bacterial lysates

Bacterial lysates are a type of probiotic that are made by breaking down the cell walls of beneficial bacteria. They contain a variety of beneficial compounds such as enzymes, peptides and other nutrients that can help to support the health of the skin microbiome.

Bioferments

Type of probiotic that are made by fermenting a mixture of beneficial bacteria and yeast. They contain a variety of beneficial compounds such as lactic acid, enzymes, and other nutrients that can help to support the health of the skin microbiome.

Both forms of probiotics contain similar benefits and can be used in skincare products. They are often used in combination with other skin-loving ingredients such as Vitamin C, Niacinamide or Hyaluronic Acid. Even though probiotics might not be live, they can still provide benefits to the skin.

The mechanism of action of probiotics involves binding to the surface of the skin, neutralizing pathogens, creating substances that reduce excessive microorganisms, and increasing immunomodulating properties.

3. Prebiotics and postbiotics are also the buzzwords in the skincare world, but what do they actually mean?

Prebiotics

Commonly known as food for probiotics, as they help to nourish and support the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the gut and on the skin. The best forms of prebiotics used in skincare products are typically polysaccharides and oligosaccharides, which are a type of carbohydrates that feed the probiotics.

Postbiotics

The metabolic byproducts produced by probiotics, which can offer a range of skin-loving benefits, such as boosting hydration levels and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Probiotics, prebiotics and postbiotics
work together to help maintain a healthy skin microbiome, leading to a clearer, smoother, and more youthful-looking complexion.

4. Benefits of probiotics in skincare products

Improved Skin Barrier Function

Probiotics can help to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, making it more resistant to harmful external factors such as pollution, UV rays, and bacteria.

Reduced Inflammation

Probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties, making them beneficial for those with conditions such as acne, rosacea, and eczema.

Improved Hydration

Probiotics can help to improve the skin’s hydration levels, leaving it feeling soft, supple, and well-moisturized.

Brightened Skin Tone

Probiotics have been shown to improve skin brightness, giving it a more radiant and youthful appearance.

Balances Skin Microbiome

The skin microbiome is the collection of microorganisms that live on the skin, and probiotics can help to maintain a healthy balance of bacteria, keeping skin healthy and protected.

Stimulates Collagen Production

Probiotics can help to stimulate collagen production, resulting in firmer, more youthful-looking skin.

Supports Antioxidant Defense

Probiotics can help to support the skin’s antioxidant defense system, reducing the damaging effects of free radicals and helping to prevent signs of aging.

5. Should you incorporate probiotics into your skincare routine?

Skin care products with probiotics are suitable for people of all ages and skin types, especially those with skin concerns such as acne, inflammation, dryness, and aging.

People who have undergone cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels or laser treatments can also benefit from using these products to support their skin’s healing process.
Individuals with compromised skin barriers, sensitive skin, or weakened immune systems may also benefit from the protective and restorative properties of probiotics in skincare products.

Probiotic skincare products are innovative and worth considering as they improve the skin’s condition, protect it, and treat or support the treatment of various skin conditions.

6. Here are the top 3 ingredients that protect your skin microbiome

Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide
Prebiotic

A prebiotic ingredient that helps preserve the skin’s ecosystem by maintaining the microbiota balance. This active ingredient of a natural origin strengthens and conditions the epidermis by forming a protective barrier, guarding against environmental stressors and irritation. Additionally, this potent emollient is an excellent ingredient for the skin exhibiting initial signs of aging, as it aids in preventing premature skin aging. Provides antioxidant properties that reduce the appearance of skin damage caused by oxidative stress. Has soothing, nourishing, and hydrating properties. Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide will benefit all skin types including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Perfect for:

all skin types including sensitive skin,
skin with first signs of aging,
acne-prone skin,
skin with an unbalanced microbiome,
irritated & compromised barrier,
over-exfoliated skin,
dull skin,
dehydrated & dry skin

Found in our:

That’s Calm – Hyaluronic Acid Day Cream
Pure Pure – AHA BHA Face Cleanser / Face Mask

Avena Sativa Kernel Extract / Oat Kernel Extract
Prebiotic, Probiotic, and Postbiotic Properties

Avena Sativa Kernel Extract is a biotechnology-based oat extract that is fermented by Lactobacillus bacteria. This ingredient balances the skin microbiome with pre-, pro-, and postbiotic properties. Oat Kernel Extract releases antioxidant compounds. It contains pantothenic acid (B5) and niacin (B3), which accelerate the recovery of the skin barrier and aid in sebum regulation, providing significant protection from free radicals. This humectant has great moisturizing properties, improves skin firmness, and reduces trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). The form of this ingredient used in our skincare formulas has a natural origin.

Perfect for:

all skin types including sensitive skin,
acne-prone and oily skin,
dehydrated & dry skin
irritated & compromised barrier,
skin with first signs of aging,
over-exfoliated skin,
dull skin,
skin with an unbalanced microbiome,

Found in our:

That’s Calm – Hyaluronic Acid Day Cream
Summer C – Vitamin C + Niacinamide Face Serum
Think Sleep – Peptide Night Cream

Lactobacillus Ferment
Probiotic

Lactobacillus Ferment is a non-living probiotic ingredient that is made by the fermentation of the microorganism Lactobacillus. This biotechnology-based ingredient has strong soothing and hydrating properties, helping to keep the skin microbiome balanced. With its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s a suitable ingredient for acne-prone skin. Recent studies have shown that Lactobacillus Ferment works faster than salicylic acid in reducing the size and redness of acne lesions. The form used in skincare formulas is derived from a natural source.

Perfect for:

all skin types including sensitive skin,
acne-prone skin,
dehydrated & dry skin
irritated & compromised barrier,
over-exfoliated skin,
dull skin,
skin with an unbalanced microbiome,

Found in our:

That’s Calm – Hyaluronic Acid Day Cream
Summer C – Vitamin C + Niacinamide Face Serum
Think Sleep – Peptide Night Cream

7. But is it enough to use a skincare product that has those ingredients in the INCI list?

Unfortunately, seeing those ingredients in the INCI list is not enough. The overall formula of the skincare product can still include ingredients that are harsh for your skin barrier and microbiome. Or the ingredients that are supposed to protect your skin microbiome may not have been used in the proper concentration level.

To make sure that the skincare product protects your skin microbiome, look for products that have undergone third-party laboratory tests to confirm that the skincare formula is beneficial and safe for the skin microbiome.

In our formulas, you will find all the top 3 ingredients to protect your skin microbiome, and to ensure that the product works, we conducted laboratory tests with a third-party laboratory.

The studies were performed using biochemical identification methods, and the effectiveness of the product on the skin microbiome was assessed based on a long-term 28-day up to 42-day to include a full skin cycle.

Simplifying Your Skincare Routine | 6 Steps to Skinimalism

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22 May 2023

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KNOW hyd.