Probiotics have emerged to be the ‘go-to’ product for general wellness. The impact of probiotics on digestion and other aspects of well-being are well-documented and well-known. But did you know that using probiotics for acne can be highly effective as well?
Well, scientific research and people’s recommendations are something to believe in, then it is pretty good to use probiotics for acne. So, how should you use probiotics for treating your acne and what is the best probiotics for acne? We would take a look at things like that but before we get to that,
let us know a little bit about probiotics first
Did You Know?
The effects of probiotics were discovered by Élie Metchnikoff, way back in 1907. Metchnikoff was a Nobel laureate and known as the ‘father of immunity.’
What are Probiotics?
In the year 1989, Roy Fuller defined probiotics as “A live microbial feed supplement which affects the host by improving its intestinal microbial balance.” Put, probiotics technically refer to the bacteria that are cultured to impart health benefits to us, their host.
However, when we say ‘probiotics,’(1) we refer to the supplement that we take. When we take those supplements, the bacteria colonize our gut, and their effect could be felt throughout the body. In some cases, you also have topical probiotic medication, which you can directly apply to the affected area.
So, is it instrumental in using such probiotics for acne treatment? Let us take a quick look at what modern research says about the subject.
[Also Read: Natural Ways to Treat Acne]
Using Probiotics for Acne – What Does Research Say?
Let us take a look at what modern research says about using probiotics for acne. Several research and studies have been conducted to know about the possible effects of probiotics on acne.
Acne might be caused by several reasons. Some of the most common reasons are Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and oxidative stress.
Recent research conducted by scientists in New York states that probiotics can help to combat both these issues, thereby helping you to fight against acne.
Similarly, a 2014 study has indicated that probiotics can have a significant impact on treating chronic acne. Research has also found that probiotics have excellent anti-inflammatory properties which help you to cope with the redness and irritation often associated with acne scars.
Today, you have certain topical probiotics available in the market that have been shown improvement in people suffering from acne.
So, research does establish that using probiotics for acne is indeed useful. So, let us take a look at some of the ways in which you can use probiotics. But first, let us take some of the best probiotics for acne(2).
[Aslo Read: Benefits of Using Turmeric for Acne]
What are the Best Probiotics for Acne?
Now that we know that using probiotics for acne is a good option let us take a look at some of the strains that you can use.
Acne is often caused by the excessive growth of the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes (also known as Propionibacterium acnes). However, according to Dr. Huiying Li, an associate professor of molecular and medical pharmacology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), it’s not just one strain but several strains that might cause acne.
So, technically, any probiotic that helps you to fight against these ‘acne-causing’ bacteria would be the right candidate when you are looking for the best probiotics for acne
Lactobacillus Acidophilus or L. Acidophilus is one of the best probiotics used for acne treatment. Several studies have shown this strain to be beneficial for treating acne. Another useful strain of probiotics for acne treatment is Lactobacillus Bifidobacterium or L. Bifidobacterium.
However, when you are looking to use probiotics for acne, it is recommended that you get in touch with your doctor before you start.
Probiotics are generally safe, but in some cases, they might cause side effects that range from mild to severe. So, you need to know whether you have a condition that would expose you to risks when you are using probiotics.
[Also Read: Benefits of Epsom Salt for Acne]
How to Use Probiotics for Acne?
Can probiotics help acne? You can use probiotics for acne in two of the following ways. One way is not necessarily better than the other and to get positive results, it is better to combine the two:
Eating probiotic foods every day: This is something that you need to do to see lasting benefits. You need to do it every day as they pass through your digestive system pretty quickly. You also need to pair them with prebiotics (non-digestible carbs that feed the bacteria, like bananas, onions, garlic, etc.) for getting the best results.
Use topical probiotic skin care products: Probiotic foods might help your skin from the inside, but to get a protective shield from the outside, then you need to go for Probiotic skincare products. They strengthen your skin barrier to keep your skin hydrated, and that helps to prevent infection, breakouts, and irritation.
[ Read: Acne Causing Foods ]
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Long Does It Take for Probiotics to Affect My Acne?
The efficacy of probiotics differs from people to people. So, it comes down to you. Your dermatologist or physician would be able to tell you how long it would take to have any effect.
2. What Are the Side Effects of Probiotics?
Probiotics are known to cause side effects in some cases. Some of the most common side effects include:
- Bloating
- Stomach issues
- Skin rash
- Allergies in people intolerant to gluten, soy, eggs, dairy, or lactose
3. How Often Do I Need to Use Probiotics?
If you are taking oral supplements, then you need to make it daily. Even if you are topical probiotic cream on your face, you need to use it at least four times a week.
Probiotics have a lot of health benefits, and their effect on acne is just one of them. If you are using probiotics for acne, then you can surely expect some good results in comparatively less time.
However, you need to get your doctor’s advice before you start using it. As they say, it is always better to stay safe than sorry. We hope that this article was of help to you and you can now use probiotic effectively in your fight against acne.
