When you suffer from certain skin conditions, it can be pretty frustrating trying to find ways to get a healthy, dewy, and glowing complexion.
Perhaps you have tried benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, azelaic acid, and topical antibiotics with little or no results? Or maybe you spend hours in front of the mirror trying to cover it up with concealers and makeup?
Well, chances are your microbiome is all out of whack, especially if youโve tried the above methods.ย
Donโt worry, you have found your way here for a reason!
In this post, you will learn about the microbiome, why itโs important, and how to keep it flourishing so you can get your healthy complexion back.
This post contains affiliate links and any purchase made through those links may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
What is the microbiome?
The microbiome refers to the collection of microorganisms that live on and in the human body, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes.ย
As long as itโs protected, it will protect your skin from invaders, keep your skin balanced, keep bad bacteria and fungi from taking over, and keep your skin healthy.
ย If youโve been to a dermatologist, then they should have stressed how important it is to keep your microbiome intact. Any little disruption in this microscopic ecosystem can cause a very noticeable imbalance in your skin.
According to an article published on nature.com, an imbalance in the skinโs microbiome can not only lead to skin diseases but may also play a role in systemic disease.ย
So, when it comes to your skin and its microbiome, itโs the first line of defense against disease-causing pathogens.
Is there a difference between the skinโs microbiome and microbiota?ย
The terms microbiome and microbiota are often used interchangeably, but there is a slight difference between them. Microbiota refers to the collection of microorganisms that inhabit a particular environment, while microbiome includes both the microorganisms and their genetic material, as well as the environmental factors that influence them.
How to keep your microbiome healthy
While there are products you can use to keep your skinโs microbiome healthy, which I will get to, there are other ways you help your microbiome flourish and keep your skin healthy.
1. Maintain a balanced diet:ย Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins provides essential nutrients for your skinโs microbiome. These nutrients support the growth of beneficial bacteria and help maintain a healthy skin barrier.
2. Stay hydrated:ย Drinking enough water throughout the day helps maintain the skinโs moisture levels, which supports the skinโs microbiome. Adequate hydration also helps flush out toxins and supports overall skin health.
3. Avoid harsh cleansers and soaps:ย Overusing harsh cleansers or soaps can disrupt the skinโs natural pH balance, which can negatively affect the skinโs microbiome. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers that remove dirt and oil without stripping the skin of its natural moisture.
4. Moisturize regularly:ย Using a moisturizer that contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin can help maintain the skinโs barrier function and support the growth of beneficial bacteria on the skin.
5. Protect your skin from UV radiation:ย Excessive sun exposure can damage the skinโs microbiome and increase the risk of skin cancer. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, wear protective clothing, and avoid excessive sun exposure to protect your skinโs microbiome.
6. Limit antibiotic use: Overuse of antibiotics can disrupt the balance of bacteria on your skin, leading to an unhealthy microbiome. Only use antibiotics when prescribed by a healthcare professional and follow the instructions carefully.
7. Manage stress:ย Chronic stress can negatively impact your skinโs microbiome by increasing inflammation and weakening the skinโs barrier function. Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to help maintain a healthy skin microbiome.
8. Get enough sleep:ย Adequate sleep is important for overall health, including the health of your skinโs microbiome. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support skin health and the growth of beneficial bacteria.
9. Exercise regularly:ย Regular exercise can help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and support a healthy skin microbiome. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.
10. Consider probiotics and prebiotics:ย Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help support a healthy skin microbiome, while prebiotics are substances that feed these good bacteria. Consider taking a probiotic supplement under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Additionally, consuming prebiotic-rich foods like garlic, onions, and bananas can support the growth of beneficial bacteria on the skin. And yes, the gutโs bacteria have an influence on the skinโs bacteria.
Probiotic and Prebiotic Skincare (Number 11)
While some ways listed above may be hard to implement, this one should be the easiest.ย
As I said before, probiotics are the good bacteria and prebiotics are the food for the good bacteria.
So, what are the benefits of probiotic and prebiotic skincare?
1. Enhance skin barrier function:ย Probiotic and prebiotic skincare products help strengthen the skinโs natural barrier by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. This improved barrier function helps protect the skin from environmental stressors and harmful microorganisms.
2. Reduce inflammation:ย Probiotics and prebiotics can help reduce inflammation in the skin by balancing the skinโs microbiome. This can be particularly beneficial for those with inflammatory skin conditions, such asย eczema, rosacea, or acne.
3. Improve skin hydration:ย Prebiotic and probiotic skincare ingredients can help improve skin hydration by promoting the production of natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) and maintaining the skinโs natural pH balance.
4. Promote wound healing:ย Certain probiotic strains have been shown to speed up wound healing by reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of new skin cells.
5. Anti-aging benefits:ย Probiotic and prebiotic skincare can help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by supporting collagen production and maintaining the skinโs elasticity.
6. Decrease skin sensitivity:ย By balancing the skinโs microbiome and strengthening the skin barrier, probiotic and prebiotic skin care can help reduce sensitivity and redness in individuals with reactive or sensitive skin.
7. Fight acne-causing bacteria:ย Some probiotics produce antimicrobial substances that can inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria, helping to prevent breakouts and improve overall skin clarity.
8. Support a healthy skin microbiome:ย Probiotic and prebiotic skincare products help maintain a balanced and diverse skin microbiome by nourishing and supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria on the skin.ย
9. Improve overall skin health:ย By addressing multiple aspects of skin health, including hydration, inflammation, and bacterial balance, probiotic and prebiotic skincare can contribute to a healthier, more radiant complexion.
10. Environmentally friendly:ย Many probiotic and prebiotic skincare products are formulated with natural, eco-friendly ingredients, making them a more sustainable choice for consumers who prioritize environmentally responsible beauty products.
GlowBiotics, what makes them different?
GlowBiotics products differ from other probiotic and prebiotic skincare products because of the science thatโs behind their formulations, while also avoiding the use of harsh chemicals and unhealthy ingredients.
Probiotic Derived Bioactives (PDBs)
These are produced when good bacteria are fermented and can be applied to the skin to improve its health and appearance. PDBs can balance the skinโs microbiome, strengthen the skinโs barrier, and optimize collagen and elastin levels.
GlowBiotics products contain these strains :ย
Bacillus Ferment, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Lactobacillus/Saccharomyces/Rice/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate, Rice/Saccharomyces Lyce/Lactobacillus Ferment Filtrate, and Lactobacillus Ferment
Smart Retinoid (Glyceryl Diretinoate/GDR)
We all know how retinol or retinoids (vitamin A derivative) are touted as the โholy grailโ for acne and anti-aging. However, they can break down the skin barrier and irritate the skin.
GDR is patented and exclusive to GlowBiotics and is the byproduct of the reaction of retinoic acid with glycerin. What this does is deliver the ingredient needed to where it is needed without the irritation you would get from regular retinol or tretinoin.
In other words, GDR is a smart high-performance retinoid that doesnโt irritate your skin.
Smart Peptides (Lipo-Oligopeptides)
Peptides are chains of amino acids that make up proteins and are important for communication between cells. Peptides can act as neuromodulators, neurotransmitters, and hormones. They work by binding to receptors on the surface of cells, which triggers changes in gene expression and the release of messenger molecules to neighboring cells. Lipo-oligopeptides are a type of peptide that has fatty acids attached for better delivery. GLOWBIOTICS uses various lipo-oligopeptides for specific functions in their products.
DNA/Microarray Assay Testing
GlowBiotics is one of the first medical skincare companies to use this type of testing. Itโs basically a way to prove that their products are working and how well they are working.
GlowBiotics for all skin types or conditions
GlowBiotics is a revolutionary skincare brand that caters to the diverse needs of all skin types (normal, oily, sensitive, dry, and combination) and concerns, offering effective solutions for a wide range of issues including, but not limited to, acne, redness, and rosacea.
This innovative brand understands that each individualโs skin is unique and requires personalized care, which is why their products are carefully formulated with the perfect balance of potent ingredients and soothing elements.
By harnessing the power of probiotics and other skin-loving components, GlowBiotics provides a gentle yet efficacious approach to addressing various skin concerns, ensuring that everyone can achieve a healthy, radiant complexion regardless of their skin type or condition.
Imagine how much time youโll save and how much better youโll feel each day with a new, clear, and radiant complexion!
What are you waiting for?
Take the skin quiz to get a customized probiotic skincare regimen!ย
All comments, questions, and suggestions are welcome!
Siobhan,
Thank you for providing this plethora of knowledge and expertise regarding skincare solutions. Lately, I am noticing a major change in my skin. It appears patchy and very dry; more so on my facial areas. Although I am trying to transition to a healthier lifestyle, my diet is full of unhealthy drinks and processed foods. After reading your article. I am going to consider making a few dietary changes. Looks like I finally have a solution for my skin problems.
Rachele
Sugary drinks, caffeine, and processed foods will take a toll on your skin. All of those have been proven to break down collagenย and slow the production of more.
As for the patchy and dry areas, it sounds like there may be a disruption in your microbiome, and using a probiotic skincare product would be of value for you.
I stumbled upon the article โ11 Ways to Combat Acne, Redness, Rosacea, and Eczemaโ, and I must say itโs a gem of a resource! The information provided is not only informative but also practical and easy to implement. I appreciate how the article delves into the triggers that can worsen rosacea and offers helpful suggestions for managing flare-ups. Additionally, it clarifies the distinctions between eczema and rosacea, which can be confusing for many. Overall, I highly recommend this article to anyone seeking effective strategies for dealing with common skin concerns.
Thank you for sharing your experience with the article โ11 Ways to Combat Acne, Redness, Rosacea, and Eczemaโ. Itโs great to hear that you found the information informative, practical, and easy to implement. Iโm glad that the article provided helpful suggestions for managing flare-ups and clarified the distinctions between eczema and rosacea. I appreciate your recommendation and hope that others will find this article helpful as well.