Probiotics help skin stay supple, strong

Your skin stays supple, strong, and hydrated with a slightly acidic pH of 4.2 to 5.6. Probiotics can help with this, according to Dr. Whitney Bowe, author of The Beauty of Dirty Skin.

This pH level inhibits pathogenic bacterial colonization, the “good bugs” that help our skin and bodies fight inflammation. This setting helps the skin maintain its moisture and control enzyme activity. Probiotics can help keep the skin functioning and looking its best by keeping the pH at optimal levels.

Probiotics have many other benefits to skin health, including countering harmful bacteria, supporting barrier function both in the intestines and on the skin, contributing to the regulation of the immune system by helping control inflammation and imbalances, and helping maintain the working balance of the gut-brain-skin axis, which Dr. Bowe discusses in her book.

Probiotics can be taken as an oral supplement but can also be found in some topical skin care products. The easiest way to consume probiotics is by consuming foods that contain them. Check the nutrition label on food for “live active cultures.” Some foods and drinks with probiotics include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, kombucha, cottage cheese, miso, and tempeh.

Don’t forget to feed your friendly gut bacteria by also eating prebiotics. These are found in foods such as garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, bananas, oats, barley, flaxseed, and chicory root.

Scientific information taken from The Beauty of Dirty Skin by Dr. Whitney Bowe.