Acne, a common yet complex skin condition, has long perplexed individuals. Its exact causes have remained elusive, often attributed to a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. However, the clarity on the actual cause of acne has been limited.
Recent breakthroughs in dermatological research have shifted the focus towards the skin's microbiome. This new perspective reveals that local bacteria on the skin, far from being mere residents, play a significant role in skin health and disease. These findings are particularly crucial in understanding acne, as they highlight how the skin's bacterial and microbial inhabitants can influence its development and severity.
The Skin Microbiome and Acne
The skin's microbiome, a complex ecosystem of microorganisms including various bacteria, plays a pivotal role in skin health. Understanding this microbiome, particularly its interaction with conditions like acne, is crucial for developing innovative and effective treatments.
Imbalances in the skin microbiome (also known as dysbiosis) can lead to or exacerbate acne. A key player in this process is Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), a bacterium abundant in sebum-rich areas (regions of the skin that are prone to produce more oil) like the face and back. However, researchers have discovered that its role in acne development is quite complex.
Latest Research Insights
Research studies that have explored C. acnes show that while the diversity and abundance of C. acnes is vital for maintaining biological functions of the skin, such as creating new cells during injury, it continues to have a pivotal and complex role in acne vulgaris. One comparative study between acne patients and healthy individuals has indicated the presence of varying C.acnes strains between both groups, as well as a difference in host response to these strains. These differences potentially show that the presence of varying strains of C. acnes contribute to the development and progression of acne. Another study also suggested the lack of certain C. acnes strains in the skin, trigger the skin’s immune response, leading to the formation of acne. In addition, other types of bacteria found on the skin such as S. epidermis and S. aureus have a part to play in the formation and worsening of acne vulgaris.
Other than just looking at the skin microbiome, studies have also examined and found links between gut microbes, diet and emotional stress to acne severity (also known as the gut-brain-skin axis). Looking at the gut-skin axis in detail, studies have shown that the gut microbiome has been proven to influence various skin conditions, such as acne, atopic dermatitis (eczema) and psoriasis, through its immunological impact on the skin microbiome and immunity.
These suggest that regulating the skin and gut microbiome through the use of microbiome-focused treatments, such as probiotics, have a strong potential to relieve symptoms of acne.
KINS Microbiome Treatments for Acne
These research insights pave the way for innovative treatments focusing on skin and gut microbiome balance, which is the focus of KINS’ range of topical and oral microbiome treatments. The star ingredient of these products that makes such microbiome balance possible is Lactobacillus.
A clinical study using topical Lactobacillus showed notable improvements in the condition of human skin. These betterments included collagen growth, increased moisturising, restriction of melanin production and anti-biofilm formation. In addition, there was a significant change in the skin microbiome before and after two months of treatment, where further growth of C. acnes, a key player in acne, was reduced.
In trials using KINS’ proprietary ingredient derived from lactic acid bacteria, which contributes to balancing the skin's microbiome, a large majority of the participants not only felt an improvement in their skin texture but also experienced a noticeable improvement in their acne.
Adopting microbiome-based therapies into your skincare routine such as gentle cleansing gels, serums and supplements, while avoiding harsh chemicals, could positively and effectively change the health of your skin. These practices would help maintain a healthy skin and gut microbiome, crucial for preventing and managing acne, especially in the long run.
Conclusion
In this new era in dermatology, the emerging field of microbiome research is revolutionising our understanding and treatment of acne. This shift from traditional acne treatments to a more holistic approach, focusing on the balance of skin and gut microbiomes, marks a significant advancement in our quest toward understanding how to achieve healthier skin.
In light of these groundbreaking insights, we encourage you to consider the role of your skin's microbiome in your daily skincare routine through the new world of microbiome-friendly skincare practices. KINS' innovative microbiome treatments, including products enriched with Lactobacillus, offer a promising path to not only alleviate acne symptoms but also enhance overall skin health.
Remember, the health of your skin is deeply intertwined with the health of its microbiome. Your skin deserves this attention to detail, and KINS is here to guide you every step of the way.
References
From Dysbiosis to Healthy Skin: Major Contributions of Cutibacterium acnes to Skin Homeostasis - PMC (nih.gov)
The Skin Microbiome: A New Actor in Inflammatory Acne - PMC (nih.gov)
Potential Role of the Microbiome in Acne: A Comprehensive Review - PMC (nih.gov)
Acne, Microbiome, and Probiotics: The Gut-Skin Axis - PubMed (nih.gov)
Impact of gut microbiome on skin health: gut-skin axis observed through the lenses of therapeutics and skin diseases - PMC (nih.gov)
Regulatory effects of Lactobacillus plantarum-GMNL6 on human skin health by improving skin microbiome - PMC (nih.gov)
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