Sensitive Skin SOS: The Power of Topical Live Probiotics

Sensitive skin can come about due to an increased sensitivity of the skin to various factors like environmental elements, chemicals, and even physical stimuli. This heightened sensitivity is often linked to a weakened skin barrier function, which can make it easier for irritants and allergens to get through, leading to unwanted reactions. On top of that, your genetic background can also have a say in this – if sensitive skin runs in the family, you might be more likely to deal with it.

And the plot thickens! Things like too much sun exposure, using harsh skincare stuff, weather changes, and specific health conditions can crank up the sensitivity even more. It's like a bunch of puzzle pieces that make sensitive skin a bit of a challenge to deal with.

Now, let's talk about the little residents of your skin – the skin microbiome. In the world of sensitive skin, one big thing is that there's often a shortage of a common skin bacteria called Staphylococcus epidermidis. And if you've got the sensitive skin vibe going on, you might also have higher levels of Lactobacillus, which is all about making lactic acid. This acid party messes with your skin's pH levels, turning it more acidic and causing irritation, which then leads to redness and all that jazz.

So, in the realm of sensitive skin, topical LIVE probiotics like those found in our Recover Live Probiotic Serum are the sidekicks that help your skin get back to feeling awesome. They're like pals saying, "Hey, let's keep things balanced and easygoing, so your skin can shine without all the fuss!"

The Skin Microbiome and Sensitivity

So, let's dive into how the skin microbiome impacts sensitivity. One big thing that stands out is that folks with sensitive skin often have a shortage when it comes to a common skin buddy (beneficial bacteria) called Staphylococcus epidermidis. And guess what? If you're rocking the sensitive skin vibe, you might also find yourself with some very busy Lactobacillus (another bacteria). These guys are pros at making lactic acid. But here's the thing – too much lactic acid can mess with your skin's pH levels, making things more acidic than your skin likes. 

The result? A grumpy, irritated party on your skin, complete with inflammation and redness.

And here's another interesting skin microbiome tidbit – having less diversity in your skin's bacterial lineup is a bit like inviting pathogenic bacteria to crash the party. It's like a VIP pass for them to cause all sorts of issues, including inflammation. So, in the wild world of sensitive skin, it's not just about what's on the surface, but who's underneath – or rather, what kind of bacteria are hanging out in your skin's world and how much. 

Treating Skin Sensitivity with Topical LIVE Probiotics

Treating sensitive skin with topical LIVE probiotics can have many benefits, including restoration of the microbiome balance, increased skin hydration, and reduced sensitivity. Topical LIVE probiotic treatments that include Streptococcus thermophiles have been shown to increase skin hydration and reduce sensitivity by increasing the production of ceramides like sphingomyelinase. In a clinical trial, patients treated with a cream containing 10% Bifidobacterium longum showed improved skin sensitivity after two months, with a reduction in skin stinging, dryness, and improved barrier function. The use of transdermal probiotics in the treatment of sensitive skin is effective in restoring balance as well. This is achieved by reintroducing strains that have been lowered to encourage the growth of these beneficial strains. This allows the skin microbiome to continue to stay balanced, attaining a reduced sensitivity after treatment. 

Suggested Products to Try

Live P.S. Recover Live Probiotic Serum - If you try any Live P.S. skincare products choose this one! This serum helps by adding more of the beneficial bacteria your skin needs to reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation. It also strengthens your skin microbiome to prevent future sensitivity flare-ups by working with the skin microbiome to produce postbiotic metabolites like vitamin A, vitamin C, peptides, antioxidants, ceramides, and more.

Live P.S. 3-Step Kit - This 3-step kit is ideal for those looking to start a simple skincare regimen. It has everything your skin needs to mend and thrive naturally. This kit helps to balance the skin microbiome to reduce current sensitivity symptoms and prevent the intensity and frequency of future flare-ups.

Includes: Live P.S.® Recharge Revitalizing Cleanser, Recover Live Probiotic Serum, and Protect Daily Defense Moisturizer.

• Preps skin for overnight recovery with prebiotics and probiotic extracts while washing away makeup and germs.
• Replenishes skin with topical LIVE probiotics to work with the skin microbiome to help eliminate symptoms like inflammation, redness, and sensitivity while also preventing future flare-ups and producing postbiotic metabolites like vitamins, minerals, and peptides your skin needs to look good every day!
• Nourishes and protects with prebiotics and probiotic extracts while also adding the ideal amount of hydration needed. 

A Note About the Process:

When using topical LIVE probiotics like those found in our LIVE probiotic serum your skin may purge. This part of your journey will be unique to you because everyone’s skin microbiome is different. Just know that if you think it is getting worse, it’s part of the skin clarification process, don’t stop! Your healthy, happy skin is right around the corner. NOTE: Purge is not irritation, if you experience a burning sensation discontinue use.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How would you describe the relationship between the skin microbiome and sensitivity?

Sensitive skin can be characterized by a decrease in the abundance of beneficial bacteria like Staphylococcus epidermidis and increased levels of Lactobacillus, leading to an altered microbiome that contributes to skin irritation, inflammation, and redness.

How does the overproduction of lactic acid affect sensitive skin?

Increased levels of Lactobacillus that produce lactic acid lead to a lowered skin pH, creating an acidic environment that irritates the skin, resulting in inflammation and redness.

What benefits can be derived from treating sensitive skin with probiotics?

Treating sensitive skin with topical live probiotics can restore microbiome balance, enhance skin hydration, and reduce sensitivity, ultimately leading to improved barrier function.

How does Streptococcus thermophiles affect skin sensitivity?

Probiotic treatments containing Streptococcus thermophiles increase skin hydration and reduce sensitivity by promoting the production of ceramides like sphingomyelinase.