Probiotics for your face?

by Elizabeth M Janowski, CEO
You’ve likely heard about all the good probiotics can do for your immune system and overall “gut” health. From probiotic infused yogurts to supplements – there is much information promoting the creation and maintenance of healthy cultures of microorganisms in our intestines. Beverages like Kombucha have been increasingly popular as we become more attuned to how our internal “biome” of microorganisms affects our overall health.

While we may be ingesting probiotics daily in supplements, beverages, and yogurts – new research is showing the benefits of having a healthy micro-culture on the surface of your skin. We carry around an amazing 3 lbs of microscopic organisms ON the surface of our skin – and scientists are becoming increasingly attuned to the idea that the biome on the surface of your skin affects how healthy, clear, hydrated and taut your skin is.

Skin care products have long attempted to strip bacteria off our face – which sounds like a good idea – as “bad” bacteria can cause acne and inflammation. However, new research is attempting to use skin care products applied externally to create a harmonious equilibrium amongst the microbes ON our skin’s surface. In theory, this means healthier, more balanced skin and a possible stronger immune system – as many infections enter our bodies through the skin.

Skin care companies, like Tula, founded by a physician, sell products that add probiotics to the skin. I’ve been using the Tula Illuminating Serum for a couple of months – and I feel my skin is less red/inflammed than usual. It’s also a great product that seems to add moisture to the skin.

A simple DIY way to add to your healthy micro-flora is a 10 minute/week mask made of a thick Greek yogurt. A cooling and moisture-rich treat for the skin – it can’t hurt and may help you build up your healthy micro-skin community!

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