How probiotic therapy affects skin aging and restores the skin's natural protective functions.
Probiotics are “healthy bacteria” that live in and around us. They can be found in the soil, in water, and all over our bodies, and their numbers range from 10 million to 1 billion. Since there are so many different types, it’s reasonable to assume that not all probiotics are the same. In fact, many different strains are currently used in the form of supplements to treat a wide range of conditions, from gastrointestinal disorders to various forms of acne.
Topically applied probiotics are used to treat a variety of skin conditions, such as rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, and acne, as well as to prevent premature skin aging. They help restore the proper balance of the microbiome, which can be disrupted by a number of exogenous factors. Some of the most common causes include harsh cosmetic products with a high pH and excessive cleansing and scrubbing of the skin, which disrupt and damage the skin barrier’s normal function.
Research confirms that topical probiotics are highly effective when used in conjunction with other treatment protocols. Today, there are products available that are specifically designed to integrate successfully with established forms of treatment and significantly improve the overall outcome of therapy. The trend suggests that the frequency of probiotic use as an exclusive form of treatment is expected to increase in the future.
The topical application of probiotics is relatively new, but it is rapidly gaining popularity due to its versatility and ability to restore the bacterial balance in all skin types. Recently, probiotics have been documented to significantly improve atopic eczema and atopic dermatitis, burns, and scars, as well as rejuvenate the skin and boost its immunity. They successfully restore the skin’s acidic pH, alleviate oxidative stress, reduce photoaging, and improve the skin’s resistance to harmful environmental factors.
Probiotics reduce the signs of aging by stimulating collagen production. In addition, they limit the harmful effects of sun exposure by delaying the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
In patients with acne and rosacea, live microorganisms on the skin are recognized as foreign by the body’s immune system. The immune system is activated to counter this potential threat, leading to inflammation and redness. Topical probiotics prevent skin cells from recognizing the “bad” bacteria and parasites that can trigger an immune response. This, in turn, has a soothing effect on acne flare-ups.
Some of the main concerns patients have are uneven skin tone and loss of radiance. Probiotic products improve and enhance the skin’s natural ability to renew and rejuvenate itself.
Since the use of probiotics in skin care is a relatively new concept, the technology, product formulations, and ingredients will continue to evolve and be optimized in the near future.
Based on my experience, I recommend the product line from Snowborn for a number of reasons.
First and foremost, I would highlight the fact that it can be used on all skin types—dry, dehydrated, sensitive, and oily—and delivers exceptional results.
For patients with very dry skin, the Back to Balance moisturizing cream restores the skin’s normal pH, hydrates it, and restores its natural balance within a few weeks. It has a lower pH and gently exfoliates the skin daily, leaving it renewed in less than a month.
I recommend the Spots Never Again Active Fluid for highly sensitive or irritated skin. Its formula contains niacinamide, which soothes the skin while also reducing sebum production, minimizing pore size, and counteracting skin pigmentation. It is clinically proven to eliminate blackheads, microcysts, and inflammatory lesions. The soothing and anti-inflammatory effects are rapid and long-lasting, which is the primary goal of any dermatologist—regardless of the type of treatment.
The Glow Skin Detox Cleansing Gel is suitable for all skin types, as it balances the skin’s pH, provides natural protection, and improves the skin’s resilience. It does not dry out or leave the skin feeling greasy. On the contrary, the seawater and green algae in its formula optimally hydrate the skin, while ginger and grape seeds cleanse the skin of impurities and provide a gentle anti-inflammatory effect.
In my experience, for patients with acne, rosacea, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, the Restore to Defense protective lipid cream reduces skin imperfections, brightens, illuminates, and evens out the skin tone. It also reduces the appearance of age spots, fine lines, and other signs of aging by stimulating skin renewal—leaving the skin looking young and radiant.
My favorite product in the line is the Back to Balance micellar water. It cleanses deeply, reducing the need for frequent exfoliation, which can significantly dry out the skin. It balances sebum production, which is of paramount importance for patients with acne. It reduces the need for stronger products such as retinol, zinc oxide, and benzoyl peroxide.
I can tell you that it’s amazing how a series of topically applied probiotic products can help address a number of issues we encounter in our daily dermatology practice!
For more information and insights from leading dermatologists, visit www.snowbornskin.com
Dr. Temelkova, M.D.
Practicing physician at the Clinic of
Dermatology and Venereology
MI Ministry of Interior Hospital – Sofia
