strong connection between the gut and your skin<\/a>.<\/p>\nResearchers found that a specific probiotic strain may help protect the skin from damage caused by ultraviolet B (UVB) rays while improving hydration, collagen production, and skin barrier function.<\/p>\n
While these findings look to be promising, it\u2019s important to remember that the research was conducted in cells and mice (not humans).<\/p>\n
But let\u2019s take a deeper dive into this and see how probiotics can reduce skin aging.<\/p>\n
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used to treat or diagnose any condition. It is recommended that you speak with your doctor before starting any exercise program, making changes to your nutrition plan, or adding any new dietary supplements into your current regimen.<\/em><\/p>\nThe Gut-Skin Connection May Be More Powerful Than We Thought<\/h2>\n
Scientists continue to learn more about what\u2019s known as the gut-skin axis.<\/p>\n
This concept suggests that the health of your gut microbiome can influence the health and appearance of your skin.<\/p>\n
In this latest study, researchers wanted to determine whether a proprietary probiotic strain called Lacticaseibacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei ABF21013 could help reduce UVB-induced skin aging after being taken orally.<\/p>\n
How Researchers Studied Skin Aging<\/h2>\n
The research team first evaluated the probiotic using cultured skin cells. They then moved into an animal model using hairless mice that were repeatedly exposed to UVB radiation.<\/p>\n
The mice received the probiotic orally once a day, five days per week, for 12 weeks while continuing to receive UVB exposure.<\/p>\n
Throughout the study, researchers examined several markers associated with skin aging, including:<\/p>\n
1.\u00a0\u00a0 Wrinkle Formation<\/h3>\n
Scientists looked at whether the probiotic could reduce visible wrinkle development caused by UV exposure.<\/p>\n
2.\u00a0\u00a0 Skin Hydration<\/h3>\n
Proper hydration plays a major role in maintaining healthy-looking skin and reducing the appearance of skin aging.<\/p>\n
3.\u00a0\u00a0 Skin Barrier Function<\/h3>\n
Researchers measured transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which indicates how well the skin retains moisture.<\/p>\n
4.\u00a0\u00a0 Collagen and Hyaluronic Acid<\/h3>\n
Collagen helps provide strength and structure to the skin, while hyaluronic acid helps maintain moisture.<\/p>\n
The team also evaluated gene and protein expression associated with skin aging and skin barrier health.<\/p>\n
The Probiotic Showed Several Positive Effects<\/h2>\n
The results were encouraging.<\/p>\n
Compared to untreated animals, the probiotic appeared to reduce several visible signs of skin aging caused by UVB exposure.<\/p>\n
Researchers observed:<\/p>\n