The use of probiotic and prebiotic cosmetics

• Main Authors: Zuzanna Strej (Author), Beata Szmigiel-Merena (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Polish Pharmaceutical Society, 2022-04-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 0014-8261; 10.32383/farmpol/148100
• Keywords: probiotics; prebiotics; microbiome; dysbiosis; Pharmacy and materia medica; RS1-441
• Source: Farmacja Polska, Vol 78, Iss 2, Pp 101-108 (2022)

Introduction. At the present time, more and more people are struggling with dermatological problems and premature aging of the skin. Environmental pollution, stress, an unbalanced diet or improper hygiene and care can lead to the loss or disruption of the skin's natural protective layer - the microbiome. Cosmetics with probiotics and prebiotics can become an antidote to skin problems, because in addition to caring properties, they support dermatological treatment. They contribute to increasing the elasticity of the skin, reduce the visibility of wrinkles, and also relieve the symptoms of atopic dermatitis and acne or psoriasis. Aim. The aim of the study was to assess the state of knowledge about the skin microbiome, probiotic and prebiotic cosmetics and their effectiveness. Material and method. The study was conducted among consumers of skin care cosmetics. The research group consisted of 108 people. The research method was a questionnaire consisting of 19 questions. Results. More than half of the respondents correctly defined the skin microbiome. Probiotic and prebiotic preparations are known to consumers, but are used by few people (36.1%). The best known cosmetics were intimate cleansers and preparations for washing the face and body. 33.3% of respondents declared the use of probiotic cosmetics due to skin dermatological problems. Acne and premature skin aging were the most frequently indicated. When using probiotic preparations, the respondents noticed an improvement in skin hydration, reduction of skin dryness, skin regeneration, smoothing, reduction of inflammatory changes, improvement of skin tone and reduction of sebum secretion. Conclusions. Knowledge of the microbiome and its role is insufficient. Probiotic cosmetics are known to a narrow group of consumers. Probiotic preparations are used in the case of skin dermatological problems. The respondents are satisfied with the effects of using probiotic cosmetics, but most do not have an opinion. Users of probiotic cosmetics notice the beneficial effect of these preparations on the skin.