A Derm On Why Probiotic Skin Care Is Important During Menopause

Your microbiome is the collection of over a trillion bugs that live on your skin (yes, really; if you are curious to learn more we have a full explainer). With a more diverse micro flora—meaning: more types of microbes—comes a healthier skin barrier function, reduced inflammation, clearer complexion, and diminished dryness. Essentially your skin appearance thrives when the microbiome does.  

Now, what topical probiotics do is help skin repopulate strains of good-for-you bacteria that we may lose due to lifestyle changes, beauty products, and naturally with age. There are several strains you may see, but some of the more common ones are Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium longum, if you need help reading the ingredient label. Prebiotics, on the other hand, provide skin with nutrients that probiotics naturally feed on. You’ll most likely see these in the form of plant sugars like xylitol or rhamnose.

And when you hit menopause, these bacteria become increasingly important. Why? Well your biome changes dramatically during this time.