Skin Health and Immune Potential Found in Lactobacillus Paracasei

A DBPC trial showing improved skin health and on symptom questionnaire a decreased  report of skin burning, sensitivity and discomfort in those participants consuming the Probiotic lactobacillus paracasei.  After 2 months of use compared to those that did not take probiotics.

Interleukins IL-10 and IL-12 were tested as was TGF-beta.

People with sensitive skin report symptoms such as heat, burning, stinging, or itching when exposed to physical (heat, cold, wind) or chemical (topical product application) stimuli.

Overall trends showed Lactobacillus paracasei had a positive effect on skin sensitivity, skin barrier function recovery, and key associated physiological parameters. The intervention group had higher concentrations of Lactobacillus at study end (day 57). There was statistically significant improvement in perceived skin roughness in the intervention group vs placebo (P=0.006).

Lactobacillus paracasei modulates immune homeostasis and downregulates immune-related disorders. L. paracasei significantly reduced substance P–induced vasodilation, edema, mast-cell degranulation, and tumor necrosis factor release, and also promoted recovery and maintenance of skin barrier function the study reported.

This study, amongst others supports the use of probiotics, in particular L. paracasei in the care of Atopic dermatitis, rosacea and urticarial. The use of Probiotics proves to be a novel approach to sensitive skin.

Study researchers concluded

“We are at the cusp of a much more sophisticated understanding of the therapeutic applications of probiotics, not only for skin disease but for a great number of immune-mediated conditions. ”

It is important to remember  the importance of a healthy gut barrier in immune function and in skin health.  L. Paracasei, like manyprobiotics do not have a lengthy life in the intestines and therefore should be replaced consitient with one’s dietary habits/risks.

Gueniche A, Philippe D, Bastien P, et al. Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled study of the effect of Lactobacillus paracasei NCC 2461 on skin reactivity. Benef Microbes. 2014;5(2):137-145.