Dr Haroon Ahmad
Unraveling the Research On The Skin and Gut Microbiomes Effect on Eczema. [2023]
Uncover the interplay of skin and gut microbiomes and its impact on eczema.
What We'll Cover - The Skin and Gut Microbiome and Eczema.
Key Takeaways
Eczema may be influenced by the skin and gut microbiome imbalance.
A healthy microbiome is critical in maintaining skin pH and immunity.
Probiotics, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium lactis, can help manage eczema symptoms.
The Proton Health app aids in tracking and managing your skin's health.
Lifestyle modifications contribute to gut and skin health, aiding in eczema management.
The Skin and Gut Microbiomes: Their Interplay and Influence on Eczema
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a prevalent skin condition causing itchy, inflamed, and dry skin. Although its root cause is multifaceted, involving both genetic and environmental factors, the world of microbes living inside and on us, particularly in our gut and skin, also plays a significant role.
A Deeper Look into the Skin Microbiome
The skin microbiome is a dynamic community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, residing on our skin's surface. This microscopic ecosystem plays a critical role in protecting us against pathogens, maintaining the skin's pH balance, and supporting immunity. The skin microbiome in individuals with eczema, however, often varies from those without the condition, potentially contributing to the inflammation and itchiness characteristic of this condition.
The Gut Microbiome and Its Influence on Skin Health
Just as our skin is home to a diverse array of microbes, our gut also harbours a complex microbial environment known as the gut microbiome. These microorganisms play a fundamental role in digestion, immunity, and even our mental health.
In recent years, the "gut-skin axis," a term describing the intricate relationship between the gut and skin microbiomes, has gained attention. An imbalance in the gut microbiome, characterised by a reduction in beneficial bacteria and an increase in potentially harmful ones, may contribute to eczema.
Studies show that individuals with eczema often have a different gut microbiome composition than those without the condition. More specifically, they tend to have lower levels of beneficial bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus, and higher levels of potentially harmful ones. This imbalance, known as dysbiosis, may promote inflammation, thereby exacerbating eczema symptoms.
Leveraging Probiotics in Eczema Management
Probiotics, live beneficial bacteria that can help restore a healthy gut microbiome, have shown promise in managing eczema symptoms. By enhancing the population of good bacteria in the gut, probiotics can potentially rebalance the gut microbiome, thereby influencing the gut-skin axis and improving eczema.
Research has shown that specific strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium lactis, can be beneficial for individuals with eczema.
While supplements are a convenient way to incorporate probiotics into your regimen, they are also naturally present in various fermented foods. Including these in your diet can be an effective way to support your gut microbiome.
Yogurt: Often the first food that comes to mind when we think of probiotics, make sure to choose yogurts that contain live cultures and avoid those with high sugar content.
Kefir: A fermented milk drink, kefir is rich in various probiotic strains and can be an excellent addition to your diet.
Sauerkraut: Made from fermented cabbage, sauerkraut is not only a good source of probiotics but also rich in fibre and vitamins.
Kimchi: This traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, predominantly cabbage, is full of beneficial bacteria and also adds a spicy kick to meals.
Miso: A Japanese staple, miso paste, made from fermented soybeans, barley, or rice, can be used to prepare soups and sauces.
Tempeh: Another product of fermented soybeans, tempeh is a meat substitute loved by vegetarians and vegans alike, and a good probiotic source.
Kombucha: This fermented tea is a trendy beverage full of probiotics.
Improving the Skin Microbiome: Skincare Products and Beyond
Several skincare products today incorporate probiotics, prebiotics (food for beneficial microbes), or postbiotics (beneficial compounds produced by microbes), aiming to support and balance the skin microbiome. Here are some examples:
Gladskin Eczmact Range - One of our partner brands that include technology that selectively targets harmful bacteria on the skin without impacting beneficial bacteria.
Mother Dirt AO+ Mist: This product contains live probiotics to restore the balance of the skin's microbiome.
Gallinée Probiotic Hydrating Face Cream: Incorporates a patented complex of prebiotics, probiotics, and post-biotics to support the skin's good bacteria.
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ Moisturiser for Dry Skin: This moisturiser is enriched with prebiotic thermal water, ceramides, and niacinamide to bolster a healthy skin barrier.
Holistic Lifestyle Changes for Eczema Management
In addition to probiotics and skincare routines, other lifestyle modifications also contribute to improving both gut and skin health. These include maintaining a diet rich in fibre, minimising processed food consumption, regularly exercising, and managing stress effectively.
Remember, it's essential to discuss with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your skincare routine, diet, or lifestyle, particularly when managing eczema.
With an increasing understanding of the interconnectedness of the skin and gut microbiomes, learning to nurture these microbial communities can be a vital tool in managing eczema and promoting overall skin health.
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