For hundreds of years, people used yogurt and kombucha and other fermented foods to beautify their skin. Today, we know that friendly microbes called probiotics benefit the skin in many ways. They help to restore the skin’s protective function by repairing its microbiome. Most of us are familiar with probiotics as friendly bacteria which help us to digest. But the skin, the body largest organ, plays host to various strains of bacteria and other types of microorganisms. A harmonious coexistence of these microbe colonies is one of the keys to healthy skin. 

If the skin’s microbiome is out of balance, the protective barrier can be compromised. Consuming probiotics helps to support the skin from the inside out because it will improve digestion, balance the immune system, and help detoxification. As we know, one of the functions of the skin is an elimination. We release toxins through our pores with sweat or skin oil.

The skincare industry just started to realize the importance of a healthy microbiome for skin’s health and appearance. Most beauty formulations on the market contain conventional preservatives which kill not only pathogens but also good bacteria. Instead of conventional preservatives, you can find extracts of fermented vegetables and fruits in organic skincare products which contain some active friendly bacteria that help to control the proliferation of pathogens and mold and preserve the skincare product naturally.

Different types of Lactobacillus—which happily live and thrive in fresh beverages—produce lactic acid and help to hydrate and brighten your skin. These microorganisms effectively calm red, inflamed skin. The beauty industry has to ensure that its commercial skincare products have a shelf life. However, when you enjoy a spa day at your home, you do not need to worry about that, just enjoy your fresh mask made from yogurt and kefir.

You can add honey to your yogurt mask to condition your skin even more. Recent studies proved that honey can contain up to 32 naturally occurring strains of lactobacillus, as well. Good sources of lactobacillus include yogurt, kefir, fermented cheeses, sauerkraut, fermented vegetables, honey, and kombucha.

A recent scientific study done in Japan showed that a strain of lactobacillus helped improve the skin of patients with wrinkles and excessively dry skin. They were given a Lactobacillus Plantarum supplement for 12 weeks. Participants showed glossier skin, as well as a significant reduction in the depth of their wrinkles. They also experienced a 13.17 percent improvement in skin elasticity after four weeks; after an additional eight weeks, elasticity improved by 21.73 percent.
Many of us are familiar with yeast infections and have experienced them after treatments of strong antibiotics. They can also disturb your skin’s microbiome, as well. This is why sometimes people feel that their skin becomes itchy. Fermented foods can help you to introduce friendly bacteria back to your skin.

Well-fermented kombucha is also a source of gluconacetobacter xylinus, an excellent yeast-fighting probiotic. It gently exfoliates and nourishes the skin and contains an effective cocktail of acetic, lactic, and malic acids. It works very well for all complexions, especially for rosacea-prone and sensitive skin.

While the topical and internal use of food-based probiotics in skin care continues to be studied, scientists are also looking at other sources of skin-friendly bacteria found in the soil. One of these is nitrifying bacteria. It consumes ammonia present in sweat and turns it into beneficial nutrients for the skin. It is especially beneficial for the acne-prone complexion. Probiotics come in various forms and, could be implemented into your skincare daily regimen very easily.

About the expert:
Elina Fedotova is the formulator and CEO of Elina Organics, an award winning cosmetic chemist and esthetician. She hand makes her professional skin care line in her laboratory using holistic principles and organic ingredients from around the world. In 2007, she founded the Association of Holistic Skin Care Practitioners (AHSCP); a nonprofit organization that provides ongoing training and education for professionals. The Elina Organics product line is available in skin care salons and medical offices across the country. She continues to offer her unique, holistic skin care treatments to clients who come to her spas in Chicago and West Michigan.