Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While its causes are well known, not many people are aware of the connection between probiotics and acne.
Recent studies have shown that consuming some types of probiotics can help reduce acne symptoms.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are beneficial to the body, especially the digestive system. They help improve the balance of friendly bacteria in the gut, reducing the risk of harmful bacteria growth.
Probiotics are found in certain foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and other fermented foods. They are also available in supplement form.
The Connection Between Probiotics and Acne
Experts have speculated for years that there is a connection between gut health and acne. Recent studies have confirmed this notion by showing that certain types of probiotics can help reduce acne symptoms and improve skin health.
The reason behind this is because probiotics help improve gut health. A healthy gut means that there is a lesser chance of toxins being released into the body, leading to better skin health overall.
Types of Probiotics for Acne
Not all types of probiotics are created equal when it comes to acne treatment. Researchers have studied various types of probiotics and found that some strains work better than others in improving skin health.
Here are some of the best types of probiotics for acne:.
1. Lactobacillus acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus is a type of probiotic found in the gut that helps reduce inflammation. One study showed that consumption of Lactobacillus acidophilus reduced acne by 80% in participants over a 12-week period.
2. Bifidobacterium bifidum
Bifidobacterium bifidum is another type of probiotic that helps reduce inflammation. It also helps improve gut health, which leads to better skin health.
One study found that consuming Bifidobacterium bifidum reduced acne by 52% in participants over a 12-week period.
3. Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a probiotic that has been shown to improve skin hydration levels. One study found that consuming Lactobacillus rhamnosus improved skin hydration levels in participants by 45% over a two-week period.
4. Streptococcus thermophiles
Streptococcus thermophiles is a type of probiotic that helps reduce inflammation. It also helps improve the overall health of the gut, leading to better skin health.
One study found that consuming Streptococcus thermophiles reduced acne by 62% in participants over an 8-week period.
How to Consume Probiotics for Acne
The best way to consume probiotics for acne is through food sources, such as yogurt, kefir, and kimchi. These foods are easy to find and will not require a lot of effort in terms of preparation.
One should also consider adding supplements to their daily routine. Supplements are available in different forms, including capsules and powders, and can be taken orally with or without food.
Conclusion
Probiotics have been proven to reduce acne symptoms and improve skin health. However, not all types of probiotics work the same when it comes to treating acne.
Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Streptococcus thermophiles are some of the best types of probiotics for acne. By consuming these probiotics, one can improve their overall gut health and have better skin health.