BENEFITS OF PROBIOTICS IN SKINCARE
What is the skin microbiome?
The microbiome is made up of a collection of friendly microorganisms - bacteria, archaea, fungi - found in the skin in all parts of the human body. It supports the immune system and creates the first line of defense against harmful external factors. Millions of microorganisms inhabiting the epidermis protect the body against pathogenic microbes and allergens, among others.
Each strain of microorganisms performs a specific function - some protect against pathogens and allergens, others are responsible for regulating the pH of the skin, others break down sweat and sebum, yet others improve the production of hormones and slow down skin photoaging. Their harmonious functioning determines the condition of the skin and its healthy appearance. When the microbiome is damaged or too poor, the skin becomes more susceptible to harmful external factors. That is why it is so important to support the skin microbiome with appropriate care and carefully selected cosmetics.
So what happens when the bacterial flora of the facial skin disappears? It comes to, among others:
• multiplication of pathogens, especially those that cause acne,
• disturbances in the pH of the epidermis, which may lead to irritation,
• faster skin aging and slowing down its renewal,
• excessive dryness of the epidermis and its peeling,
• greater susceptibility of the skin to allergens and irritants, and therefore to the appearance of redness and rashes.
What is damaging the skin microbiome?
The skin's bacterial flora is very sensitive. It can be damaged by strong cosmetic treatments, chemical and laser peels, as well as high concentration of AHA acids and retinoids, especially when used systematically. Most often, however, the weakening of the microbiome occurs as a result of mistakes made during daily care.
The skin's protective barrier is mainly damaged by aggressive cleansing substances - SLS and SLES - contained in many cosmetic preparations, as well as strong antiseptic and antibacterial agents, especially those based on alcohol, which together with pathogenic microorganisms removes good bacteria from the skin surface. If we use such cosmetics every day, the skin has a serious problem with rebuilding its protective layer.
The skin’s pH is important as it plays a role in determining the health of our microbiome. The new research suggests that the ideal pH for skin is around 4.7. Unfortunately still some products can be much further into the alkaline spectrum. For example soap with a very alkaline level of pH >8 removes bacteria from your skin and disrupts the microbiome and skin barrier. Also tap water is alkaline at pH 6.5 - 9.5, at the higher end this can also temporarily negatively influence ours microbiome and acid mantle. Similarly, very low pH products can cause sensitivity and also disturb the skin barrier by exfoliating too harshly.
The microbiome is also harmed by poorly selected cosmetics that do not meet the real needs of the skin, and excessive sun exposure, especially when we do not use filters that protect against UVA and UVB radiation.
Our lifestyle is also important for our microbiome. A diet low in minerals, vitamins and essential fatty acids, lack of exercise, smoking or staying in smoky rooms reduce the skin's resistance. The condition of the skin can also be worsened by factors beyond our control - diseases, taking certain medications, stress or smog.
We have no control over many factors. This does not mean, however, that we cannot support the microbiome and maintain its balance. It is worth knowing how to properly nourish the microorganisms inhabiting the skin so that it delights with its health and radiant glow. Support can be found in cosmetic complexes developed by experts in the field of cosmetology and dermatology. Specialists have discovered that we can improve the condition of the microbiome with two types of ingredients - prebiotics and probiotics. Prebiotics are food for the bacterial flora of the skin - they feed on good microorganisms. In this way, they stimulate their activity and development and help to maintain the balance of microflora and proper pH. Probiotics increase selectively the activity and growth of beneficial 'normal' skin microbiome.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING PROBIOTIC SKINCARE?
They soothe irritated skin
Probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and soothe easily-irritated skin. If you are prone to breakouts and find they leave behind red marks, probiotic skincare may make a noticeable difference.
The defend against first signs of ageing
Probiotics improve the skin's ability to defend against environmental stressors and free radicals, which can cause premature aging such as loose skin, pigmentation, lines, and wrinkles.
They balance your skin
Probiotic skincare can help balance the skin's microbiome, resulting in a complexion that isn't too dry or too oily.
They create a natural shield
Probiotics strengthen the skin's barrier by forming a protective layer on the skin's surface, making it difficult for bacteria to penetrate and cause blemishes. Additionally, this natural shield locks in moisture to improve hydration.
Support your face care with probiotic cosmetics to nourish the skin microbiome. Kajo Cosmetics PROBIOTIC REVITALIZING CLEANSER and PROBIOTIC FACIAL MIST contain complex of Bifida Ferment Lysate and Yogurt Powder which gives it its anti-bacterial properties and balances skin’s microbiome with healthy bacteria. Additionally Kajo Cosmetics products are formulated to take into account that skin is healthier and looks better at a target pH of 4.5 to 5.They also don’t contain any aggressive cleansing substances like SLS and SLES, as well as strong antiseptic and antibacterial agents.
Give probiotics skincare a try and feel the difference on your skin!
