The Impact of Probiotics on Modern Skin Care Solutions

How Probiotics are Transforming the Future of Skin Care

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Introduction

Acne and Atopic Dermatitis (AD) are chronic inflammatory skin conditions that significantly affect patients' lives. Current treatments have adverse effects and are not curative. This paper reviews skin microbiome changes in acne and AD, exploring probiotics as potential treatments. Research was conducted through major databases between September 2015 and June 2016. Acne involves excessive growth of Propionibacterium acnes, while AD is linked to increased Staphylococcus aureus during flare-ups. Some probiotics can prevent and compete with pathogenic microorganisms, positively impacting inflammation. Notably, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Lactococcus, Lactobacillus, and Enterococcus show potential against acne, while Vitreoscilla filiformis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species are promising for AD treatment. More in-depth studies are needed to confirm probiotics' efficacy and safety.

Skin Microbiome

The skin hosts diverse bacteria, fungi, and viruses, influenced by various factors. Acne and AD require long-term treatment, with current methods leading to adverse effects. Restoring skin microbiome balance could improve outcomes and reduce side effects. Future treatments may involve microbial formulations to balance the skin ecosystem. Understanding the microbiome's interaction with factors like hygiene and lifestyle is crucial for developing new topical treatments.

Methodology

The review involved a bibliographic search of relevant literature in major databases using keywords related to acne, AD, skin microbiome, and probiotics, considering publications from 2006 to 2016.

Results and Discussion

Acne

Acne affects the pilosebaceous unit due to hormonal, immunologic, and bacterial factors, primarily involving P. acnes. Current treatments have significant side effects and do not utilize endogenous molecules, which could minimize side effects and antibiotic resistance. Probiotics like Streptococcus salivarius and Enterococcus faecalis have shown potential in inhibiting P. acnes. Probiotics may offer direct and indirect benefits by reducing P. acnes growth and inflammation, and mitigating treatment side effects.

Atopic Dermatitis

AD is characterized by pruritic, erythematous lesions, often linked to microbial diversity loss and increased S. aureus. Probiotics may restore skin microbiome balance and reduce inflammation. Studies show potential benefits from probiotics like Vitreoscilla filiformis and Lactobacillus species in reducing AD symptoms and S. aureus colonization. Future research should focus on confirming probiotics' efficacy and safety in dermatologic conditions.

Conclusion

Probiotics show promise in treating acne and AD by competing with pathogenic microorganisms and addressing inflammation. Further research is needed to standardize strains and evaluate long-term effects. Probiotics may offer a less aggressive alternative to conventional treatments, with fewer side effects, particularly for immunocompromised patients.