The fact that the human body has more microbial cells than human cells is a recent discovery, dating back 20 years. It is estimated that there are 39 trillion microbial cells versus 30 trillion human cells (blood, skin, bone cells, etc.).
Think about that for a moment...
This means that for centuries, human biology has focused on human cells and largely ignored the existence of trillions of microbial cells and their role in human health. Consequently, advances in microbiome science raise questions about current medicine.
Over the last two decades, microbiome and epigenetic sciences have opened new frontiers in human biology, leading to innovative and more effective ways to target diseases.
So far, we have only scratched the surface of the microbiome world. We are still mapping the different strains, understanding the derivatives produced by the microbiota, and their overall role in human health. But one thing is clear: microbiomes are essential for human health, and this depends on the coexistence of human and microbial cells.
Acne is a perfect example of this crossroads. Traditionally, acne has been treated with medications targeting human skin cells and killing skin and gut bacteria, with bacteria being considered bad. This is an archaic approach that predates microbiome and epigenetic sciences. Since 2021, Skin Diligent has existed to challenge these deeply ingrained old sciences. Skin Diligent has introduced an innovative approach to targeting acne through a multifaceted approach combining dietary supplements and skincare that respect the skin microbiome and boost the skin's natural ability to perform its defense and repair work, for healthy skin.
Microbiome vs. Microbiota
Microbiota refers to the collection of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, archaea, and fungi present in an environment (e.g., skin microbiota or gut microbiota). Microbiome refers to the entire genetic material of all these microorganisms. In other words, the microbiota and its genes. These terms are often used interchangeably.
The Role of the Gut Microbiome in Human Health
So far, we know that the gut microbiome influences or produces certain hormones (estrogen, progesterone, corticosterone, serotonin, etc.), produces certain vitamins (vitamin K and some B vitamins), regulates the immune system (by training and directing the human immune system and inflammation, so that your body does not overreact by creating allergies, for example), and ensures the proper functioning of our metabolism (digestion, nutrient absorption, nutrient utilization for energy and normal body function).
Recent research has suggested that the gut microbiome may also play a role in mental health. The gut is sometimes referred to as the "second brain" because it contains a complex network of neurons and neurotransmitters. Some researchers believe that the gut microbiome may be involved in regulating mood and behavior through this gut-brain connection.
The gut microbiome is incredibly diverse, with hundreds of different species of microorganisms living in the gut. The composition of the microbiome varies from person to person and can be influenced by factors such as diet, age, genetics, and lifestyle.
Research has shown that imbalances in the gut microbiome, such as a reduction in beneficial bacteria or an increase in harmful bacteria, can be associated with a range of health problems, including inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, diabetes, skin problems, and even mental health disorders.
Therefore, there is growing interest in understanding the gut microbiome and its role in health, as well as in developing treatments, such as probiotics and prebiotics, aimed at promoting a healthy microbiome and preventing or treating diseases.
The Role of the Skin Microbiome
The skin microbiome is unique to each individual and can vary depending on factors such as age, gender, diet, lifestyle, and geography. However, in general, the skin microbiome is dominated by bacteria, particularly species like Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Corynebacterium, and Propionibacterium.
The skin microbiome has many important functions, including:
- Protecting the skin from harmful pathogens
- Regulating the skin's immune system
- Maintaining the skin's pH balance
- Breaking down sebum and other skin oils
- Preventing excessive inflammation and allergic reactions
Imbalances in the skin microbiome can lead to various skin conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. Therefore, understanding and maintaining a healthy skin microbiome is an important aspect of overall skin health.
Maintaining a healthy skin microbiome can be achieved through practices such as using gentle skincare products, avoiding over-cleansing or over-exfoliating, and having a balanced and nutrient-rich diet.
This is why all Skin Diligent natural skincare products respect the skin's microbiome, its pH, and the integrity of the skin barrier to better resolve skin problems.
Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Postbiotics
Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms, usually bacteria or yeasts, that are beneficial to human health. Previously, scientists believed that probiotics acted by colonizing the gut with beneficial microorganisms, but new studies now show that probiotics are more transient. However, during their transit, probiotics play an important role in producing enzymes and fatty acids that help maintain a healthy intestinal wall, in other words, they help repair and prevent intestinal hyperpermeability.
The good bacteria found in many fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut are not necessarily called probiotics. The term "probiotics" is reserved for strains with proven beneficial effects, such as lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.
Prebiotics: Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers and carbohydrates that serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria. They are found in many plant-based foods such as onions, garlic, bananas, asparagus, and whole grains. Prebiotics work by promoting the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Postbiotics: Postbiotics are the byproducts of probiotic metabolism, including enzymes, peptides, organic acids, and short-chain fatty acids. They result from the fermentation of prebiotics by probiotic bacteria in the gut. Postbiotics can have beneficial effects on the host, such as reducing inflammation, improving intestinal barrier function, and strengthening immune function. Postbiotics can also be obtained from fermented foods and dietary supplements.
In summary, probiotics are live microorganisms that can improve gut health by colonizing the gut with beneficial bacteria, prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that serve as food for beneficial bacteria in the gut, and postbiotics are the byproducts of probiotic metabolism that can exert beneficial effects on the gut and overall health.
Potential Benefits of Probiotics for Skin Health:
They help prevent and treat acne: Probiotics have been found to decrease the severity and frequency of acne by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria on the skin.
They help reduce eczema symptoms: Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause redness, itching, and dryness. Probiotics can improve these symptoms by restoring the balance of beneficial bacteria on the skin and reducing inflammation.
They help improve skin hydration: Probiotics can help improve the skin's natural hydration capacity by strengthening the skin barrier function and increasing ceramide production.
Helps reduce signs of aging: Probiotics reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by improving skin elasticity and reducing inflammation.
Overall, probiotics can be a useful addition to a skincare routine as they can help promote healthy skin by supporting the skin's natural microbiome and reducing inflammation. However, more research is needed to fully understand the specific strains and dosages of probiotics that are most effective for different skin types and conditions.
Is it easy to formulate skincare with probiotics?
No, because skincare products require preservatives, and by definition, preservatives kill all microorganisms that can grow inside products during their shelf life. Since probiotics are bacteria, they are also affected by preservatives. This is why there are not many products containing probiotics on the market. Very technical formulations are needed to create a skincare product containing live probiotics.
Have you tried our Triple Action Cleanser which gently cleanses and exfoliates while delivering a dose of probiotics? Its very technical and preservative-free formulation is ideal for skincare. Follow with the Cellular Hydration Serum to flood cells with water and improve cellular health thanks to probiotics, prebiotics, hyaluronic acid, and the patented ingredient, vitamin D agonist, which is the equivalent of D3 (cholecalciferol) on the skin without UVs!