Prebiotics - Skin Microbiome 101

Most skincare conditions must be treated from the inside out.

The acne, rosacea, or dryness that’s been plaguing your skin could very well be the result of a much deeper issue—an unbalanced microbiome, either in the skin or gut. This imbalance indicates that the "bad" bacteria in the microbiome have outweighed the "good.” 

A variety of factors may contribute to this, including daily intensive hygiene, which scrapes off the "good" bacteria in your skin, a poor diet, and certain medications and cosmetics. Implementing prebiotics skincare into your daily routine stimulates the repopulation of "good" bacteria in your skin’s microbiome resulting in a healthy, strong and hydrated complexion.

How are gut health and skin health related?

There’s growing evidence that the health of your skin is highly dependent on the health of your gut. This direct connection of gut to skin is known as the gut-skin axis.

Scientists have discovered a direct correlation between gut health and skin conditions such as acne, eczema and rosacea. According to a 2012 study, patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) may develop lesions and other skin conditions. Additionally, a 2017 study found individuals with rosacea have a higher incidence of gastrointestinal disease. This demonstrates why it's critical to maintain the health of your gut in relation to the health of your skin.

The skin, like the gut, has a microbiome. This microbiome is a thriving ecosystem of microorganisms that protect the skin and body against external invaders while maintaining a healthy equilibrium. Problems with your skin arise when this equilibrium is disturbed and thrown off balance. It’s the job of pre and probiotics to ensure this doesn’t happen or correct it if it does.

Eating prebiotics-rich foods such as onions, leeks, avocado and asparagus and probiotics-rich foods such as yogurt, kombucha and kefir stimulate the “good” bacteria that support the vitality of your skin and gut.