New research published in Microorganisms shows how the application of the live probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri can improve atopic dermatitis. This proof-of-concept study suggests its use as a novel skin care ingredient.
According to the article abstract, probiotics are known to be effective immunomodulators. In fact, the live L. reuteri DSM 17938 used here has previously demonstrated anti-inflammatory as well as antimicrobial and barrier function properties.
The present work compared a topical probiotic ointment with a control to assess skin acceptability, safety and efficacy in 36 adult subjects with atopic dermatitis. Products were applied twice daily for eight weeks.
Both the probiotic-containing and probiotic-free ointments were found to be acceptable and safe for the skin. The probiotic formula alone showed a statistically and clinically significant improvement in atopic skin's SCORAD severity index. The authors concluded that L. reuteri DSM 17938 is safe and promising as a novel topical ingredient for the management of atopic dermatitis or other disorders associated with the skin.
See related: Practical Probiotics, Live Microbial Skin Benefits Without Limits
