Key to treating acne, alopecia and dermatitis

Probiotics, especially when combined with lactoferrin, can benefit acne patients by reducing inflammation, oxidative stress and IGF-1 levels while supporting hair growth and improving skin health through immune regulation and modification of the gut microbiome.

Study: Nutritional and microbial strategies for the treatment of acne, alopecia and atopic dermatitis. Image source: Shutterstock AI / Shutterstock.com

A current one Nutrients The study examines the mechanisms underlying the relationship between the gut microbiome (GM), dietary factors and certain skin diseases. The researchers report that consuming a diet rich in fiber, antioxidants and phytonutrients, combined with the use of probiotics, synbiotics and postbiotics, improves overall skin health.

How does the gut microbiome affect skin health?

The GM helps protect the host from pathogen invasion by competitively attaching to epithelial cells. A diverse GM also produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which contribute to wound healing and follicular stem cell differentiation.

Acne is characterized by follicular hyperkeratinization, excessive sebum production, and inflammation. Individuals with acne often have reduced GM diversity. In fact, acne vulgaris is associated with the Western diet, which often consists of high levels of saturated fat and an elevated glycemic index. Researchers have hypothesized that dysregulated nutrient signaling could lead to uncontrolled activation of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP-1) and greater synthesis of triglycerides and fatty acids in sebum.

Alopecia is characterized by the fact that in certain regions there is less or no hair at all. Both alopecia and intestinal dysbiosis share genes that trigger a type 1 helper response (Th1) as well as the production of interferon γ (IFN-γ). IFN-γ signals are transmitted via the JAK/signal transducer and inducer of transcription (STAT) pathway, and activation of this pathway may be associated with hair loss.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) causes severe itching and recurrent eczema-like lesions on the skin. Intestinal barrier disorders and intestinal dysbiosis as well as a significant reduction in microbial SCFAs were observed in AD patients.

The leaky gut in AD patients facilitates the entry of poorly digested foods, toxins, and intestinal microorganisms into the bloodstream. The induction of Th2 can subsequently lead to skin inflammation, which leads to further tissue damage.

The role of diet in acne, alopecia and AD

Consuming whole milk has been linked to cases of moderate to severe acne. In addition, high glycemic index foods as well as those rich in fats could affect GM and increase intestinal permeability, thereby worsening acne symptoms.

Vegetarian diets can reduce the risk of alopecia; However, these diets can be deficient in essential nutrients such as zinc, iron, niacin and biotin, all of which can affect hair structure and lead to hair loss. Nevertheless, plant-based diets have produced better results in alopecia patients compared to the Western diet.

Plant-based diets are considered a therapeutic alternative for the treatment of AD. These diets, often high in fiber and low in fat, can increase the diversity of beneficial microorganisms in the genetically modified organism, leading to optimal skin and intestinal health. The high flavonoid content of fruits and vegetables may also have a positive effect on AD.

The Mediterranean diet is predominantly plant-based and rich in polyphenols and antioxidants. Adherence to this diet has been linked to overall well-being, reduced cardiovascular disease, and reduced mental health problems.

The Mediterranean diet has been shown to reduce the symptoms of acne, with its lycopene-rich ingredients being studied for their potential as natural therapeutics for hair growth treatments. Nevertheless, conflicting results have been reported regarding the association between a Mediterranean diet and AD.

Microbial therapeutics for skin diseases

Consuming probiotics, especially in combination with lactoferrin, can have positive effects in acne patients. Probiotics, such as Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus Strain SP-1 can also reduce inflammatory biomarkers, oxidative stress and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Despite these observations, further research is needed to determine the optimal delivery methods and long-term health effects of these microorganisms.

Previously, a mouse model study showed that supplementation with Limosilactobacillus reuteri increased skin thickness, folliculogenesis and sebocyte formation. Other studies have reported increased skin blood flow and improved corneal moisture following administration of probiotics. Overall, these studies suggest that probiotic supplementation may support hair growth by modifying the GM.

Immunodeficiency, interleukin 17 (IL-17) and IL-22-induced skin barrier dysfunction, and changes in skin microbiota composition have been observed in AD. Probiotic supplementation can reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines and increase the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10 and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), while reducing the conversion of T cells into Th2 cells and the differentiation of mature dendritic cells.