Skin Care Column

By JUNE ENGLISH, LE

Today many people are aware that probiotics can be found in sources like Greek yogurt and supplements. However the benefits of probiotics can be found beyond the dairy case and vitamin shelves.

Topical probiotics have been shown to enhance the skin’s natural defense barriers, as well as increase immune responses. Immunity is important not just for fighting infection but for overall skin function, including the production of collagen.

Certain strains of lactic acid bacteria have been shown to modulate growth factor production. It seems that topical probiotics can benefit any skin type. Whether you are treating aging skin, acneic or sensitive skin, probiotics have been shown to help. They improve barrier function, decrease inflammation, activateimmunity, decrease transepidermal water loss and help improve skin resistance.

As the skin industry focuses on probiotics use, acneic conditions are at thecenter of this research. Maintaining healthy bacteria on the skin has been shown to decrease levels of acnes, and can be seen as a healthier alternative to stripping the barrier with harsh ingredients.

Not only has it been proven to be an effective treatment but also a preventative one for acne.This is due to increased ceramide production, increased immune function and improved barrier health, leading to faster healing and therefore clearing of acne.

Inflammation is common in most skin conditions, and can magnify the effects of acne, rosacea and hyperpigmentation. The topical application of probiotics decreases inflammation in the skin, and has even helped lessen reactivity in the skin. Some forms of dermatitis have also been shown to benefit due to the increased immune function in the skin.The reduction of inflammation helps rosacea sufferers and reduces their sensitivity. It also reduces the possibility of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation often associated with acne.

Dermatologists recommend keeping probiotics on the surface of theskin, so products can be added as a finishing treatment to a facial. This allows the beneficial bacteria more time to work its magic.

June English is a licensed esthetician and owner of Professional Skin Care Choices LLC, at 127 East Gate Dr., in Los Alamos. For more information, visit www.myskincarechoices.com or call 505.507.0124.