These days many of us know about the wonders of topical probiotics and that we should be taking them as a supplement to improve our gut health. But did you know that they have just as many benefits when applied topically to skin? Because of this, many cosmeceutical brands are starting to incorporate them into their products. But what is it about topical probiotics that makes them so great and what can they do for your skin?
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Our guts contain trillions of cells, including healthy bacteria and yeast, that make up something called a microbiome. And, as it turns out, so does our skin. In order to have healthy, radiant skin you need to have a healthy skin microbiome. It can, however, be thrown off balance quite easily due to environmental factors such as pollution, skin conditions that affect barrier function and also the skincare products that we use, many of which contain harsh ingredients that strip skin of necessary natural oils. These products generally contain preservatives that kill any living bacteria, such as the bacteria on your skin, which can have a negative impact on your skin’s health.
Related: The link between your gut health and your skin
Related: Your skincare-ingredient guide
Some skincare products with topical probiotics probiotics contain living cultures while others don’t, but they are all formulated to establish a healthy skin-pH level. This, in turn, can reduce redness, inflammation, pigmentation and environmental damage. Even those with chronic skin issues such as psoriasis and eczema can benefit from investing in probiotic skincare. It’s essentially a way of using your skin’s own ecology to fight off irritation rather than using harsh chemicals. And if it’s good for the inside, it’s good for the outside too!
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