Difference between Prebiotics and Probiotics for Skin

To understand the difference between prebiotics and probiotics for skin health, we first must understand the skin’s ecosystem, in which how microorganisms work with one another for the skin to thrive. Microorganisms are living bacteria, fungi and viruses that contribute to numerous functions of the skin. Collectively, they made up the skin microbiome which then includes prebiotics and probiotics. With the basics covered, we now talk about the specific roles of prebiotics and probiotics, and the skin benefits they bring.

What is Prebiotic? What does it do for the Skin?

Prebiotics are essentially a food source for the beneficial bacteria, i.e. probiotics, for the skin. Prebiotics help to promote probiotics’ growth and proliferation, with the objective of colonising the skin. Prebiotics are primarily plant-based fibres, however, they are non-digestible. Instead, they are fermented by the beneficial probiotics in the skin as food.

Prebiotic Sources and Their Role

Prebiotics used in biotic skincare and supplements are usually from plants sugars in fruits and vegetables. For example, Alpha-glucan oligosaccharide (chicory root), Fructo-oligosaccharides (banana, garlic), Saccharide isomerate (corn), Maltodextrin (potato starch, rice), to name a few.

Generally, prebiotics have similar roles in skincare functions – serve as nutrients to probiotics . But they do possess distinct key properties and benefits. For instance, Alpha-glucan oligosaccharide is effective in calming skin redness and strengthening the skin barrier. Saccharide isomerate has great antioxidative properties and protects the skin from UV damages and free radicals. Maltodextrin, on the other hand, softens the skin by preventing moisture loss.

What are Probiotics? How do they work for the Skin?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that can colonize the skin and help to maintain a healthy balanced microbiome. Skin microbiomes are unique to individuals depending on the location, age, hormonal fluctuations, etc. Therefore, since the microbial landscape is dynamic, probiotics work by ‘catching up’ by adapting to the environment and competing with bad bacteria for the resources. In doing so, probiotics are directly influencing the composition of the skin microbiome, establishing dominance in the skin flora.

Probiotics also produce substances that can be beneficial for skin health, such as vitamins, antioxidants, antimicrobial compounds, fatty acids and enzymes. Antimicrobial compounds help to fight harmful bacteria and viruses in the skin. Through communicating with the skin’s immunity, probiotics regulate the skin’s inflammatory responses and prevent skin infections like eczema and acne. The other beneficial compounds have anti-aging and cellular renewal abilities to maintain skin elasticity and plumpness, as well as improve texture and glow.

Examples of Probiotics

Examples of probiotics found in biotic skincare include Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces, yogurt and various ferment extracts. They too have their key properties and skin benefits.

Lactobacillus bacteria improves proteins and lipid production by increasing protein synthesis and stimulating the production of ceramides. Lactobacillus thus retains moisture, and fortifies the skin barrier against environmental aggressors and irritants. Bifidobacterium has strong anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and inflammation associated with skin conditions like acne and rosacea. Saccharomyces is a type of yeast that inhibits the key enzymes involved in melanin production and helps to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It also reduces scarring and promotes wound healing, resulting in a more even skin tone.

Prebiotics and Probiotics: The Symbiotic Relationship

Probiotics fill the main role in restoring the skin’s microbiome. Prebiotics are the supporting role, acting as the nourishment for these beneficial bacteria. This symbiosis between prebiotics and probiotics is of a mutualistic nature, i.e. they benefit from each other. The probiotics consume the prebiotics, allowing them to thrive and grow. Probiotics gained a healthy, balanced microbiome as a result of probiotics crowding out harmful bacteria. This creates a favorable environment for prebiotic activity. Together, this symbiotic relationship protects, regulates, strengthens and balances the skin’s ecosystem.

You May Like This

[Hanyul] Red Rice Essential Moisture Cream 50ml

[in-store promotion available]