Probiotic May Help Improve Adult Acne

Previous research has found that the gut-skin axis and dysregulation of insulin signaling may be linked to the development of adult acne. A recent study suggests that taking a supplement containing the probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus SP1 may help improve adult acne.

Participants in the study included 20 adults with acne. They took either a 75 mg supplement containing 3 billion colony forming units of the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus SP1 or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. The researchers conducted skin biopsies at the beginning and end of the study. They were analyzed for the gene expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 and forkhead box protein 01, both of which are involved in insulin signaling.

At the conclusion of the study, the probiotic group showed a 32% improvement on a five-point scale that measures improvement in skin appearance. They also had a 65% increase in insulin-like growth factor 1 and forkhead box protein 01 gene expression in the skin. There were no observed changes in the placebo group.

Researchers from the University of Naples Federico II led the study. It was published online ahead of print on September 6, 2016, in the journal Beneficial Microbes.

Previous studies suggest that Lactobacillus rhamnosus SP1 may help reduce diarrhea, improve immunity, and improve urinary tract health. It can be found in yogurt, cheese, and fermented foods. It can also be consumed in the form of a high-quality supplement.