We are not living alone in our bodies. What?! There are actually trillions of microorganisms that inhabit our bodies- found in the gut, mouth, skin, and other body parts- and include bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses. They all co-exist and are collectively known as the microbiome. The largest population of microbes is found in the gut [R].
The effect of the gut microbiome on health is fundamental and ranges from beneficial to unfavorable, depending on its precise composition. Like fingerprints, everybody has a unique microbiome; it’s first assembled at birth, during exposure to microbes in the birth canal, and later develops depending on environmental factors like medication, genetics, and of course, diet [R]. In fact, diet is a major factor. A diet high in fats leads to gut dysbiosis (imbalanced gut with more “bad” bacteria) and a more balanced diet promotes gut equilibrium. If you want to learn more about the effects of high fat diets (like the Keto Diet), check out my previous post here.
We now know that the gut microbiome’s influence extends beyond digestion, contributing to the function (or dysfunction) of several organs and systems. One of these is the skin- which has its own microbiome as well but is additionally influenced by that of the gut.
The skin has several functions including protection against pathogens or toxins, temperature regulation, water retention, vitamin and hormone production, and much more. In order to effectively achieve these tasks, it has to be in a state of homeostasis- or physiological equilibrium. Something that is interesting to note - the skin’s homeostasis is heavily influenced by gut microbes[R]. Let’s take a closer look.
Microbes in the gut are able to affect the systemic immune system which in turn affects the skin. As an example, there are certain microbes and their metabolites (like retinoic acid, polysaccharide A, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Clostridium bacteria) that promote the accumulation of anti-inflammatory T-cells. Other microbes, like segmented filamentous bacteria are able to promote inflammation [R].
In addition to influencing the skin’s immune protection, the gut microbiome appears to also affect the skin’s own microbiome. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which result from the fermentation of fibers in the gut, are thought to play a role in determining the skin’s microbial profile which subsequently also directly influences the cutaneous defense mechanisms.
The intimate relationship between the gut and the skin is further observed in numerous studies. For example, gastrointestinal disorders are often accompanied by skin manifestations. In addition, the digestive tract, and in particular the gut microbiome, participates in the development of many inflammatory disorders of the skin including acne, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis [R].
Because of the gut’s strong influence over the skin, it makes sense that an imbalanced gut population negatively impacts the skin. As an example, free phenols and p-cresol, which are considered biomarkers of a disturbed gut, can accumulate in the skin and impair its functionality, reduce its hydration, and damage keratinization [R].
On the other hand, a balanced, healthy gut is perhaps one of the secrets to healthy skin. The beneficial effects of gut microbes on the skin’s health and appearance have been observed in several studies. One study found that mice receiving supplementation with a bacterial strain called Lactobacillus reuteri had thicker, shinier fur [R]. Another study, done on humans, found that after taking Lactobacillus brevis supplements for 12 weeks, subjects had improved water retention in the skin which led to improved hydration and enhanced skin barrier functioning [R]. The gut microbiome also supports the restoration of skin homeostasis after UV exposure. Several studies demonstrated how changing the gut microbiome influenced the body to counteract UV damage. Administration of Lactobacillus plantarum resulted in improved skin elasticity and enhanced hydration [R]. In addition, Lactobacillus sakei reversed UV-induced skin aging [R].
There is growing evidence suggesting that diet plays an important role in skin disease and skin health in general. This can be attributed to the strong and complex link between the gut microbiome and the skin. If you have been implementing a gut friendly diet, and are taking probiotics but still suffer from acne, or other chronic skin conditions - don’t get discouraged! Remember, that the imbalance of good/bad bacteria, and detoxification of pathogens/bacteria and viruses are all necessary to achieve healthy and glowing skin. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us to book an appointment, and learn how to optimize your gut health, and ultimately - your skin.
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