The introduction of live microbes to the skin is thought to have incredible future potential, but in its current form, some experts have advised us to be cautious.
“There is simply not enough evidence to be able to confidently establish whether probiotics in skincare actually work..."
"...or have any significant or valuable benefit when applied topically to the skin."
Another dermatologist, Dr. Mahto, believes there isn’t enough evidence to back up the claims made by probiotic cosmetics products.
She also explained that the microbes used in topical products have been studied for the gut and may not work for the skin.
To further add to the confusion, many cosmetics products claiming to contain live microbes actually contain dead bacteria.
Experts say that preservatives in cosmetics are designed to inhibit the growth of microbes and will likely kill any added live bacteria.
It is also very hard to provide the conditions for microbes to stay alive in a cosmetics product.
The experts conclude that we should take any claims from beauty companies making probiotic products for the skin with a big pinch of salt.
At least until the area has been subject to rigorous scientific research.
What are your experiences with probiotics?
2 responses
Did you got an answer from Johan Galster from Denmark ? Or from allergycertified?
Hi Heleen, thanks for your comment. You will be contacted by our team about this. Let us know if you have any more questions!