When we hear prebiotic and probiotic, our minds typically go straight to gut health, right? But one thing our gut and skin have in common is microbiomes. So, it’ll come as no surprise that prebiotics are a hero ingredient for our skin, too. Now a staple ingredient in many people’s skincare routines, prebiotics help to keep your skin’s microbiome stable and balanced. And it turns out this could be the ingredient your skincare routine, and skin, have been missing all along.
To find out more about what they are, the difference between prebiotics and probiotics, and to see the prebiotic skincare we have available here BEAUTY BAY, scroll on.
What is a prebiotic in skincare?
A prebiotic is a skincare agent that helps our skin barrier and skin’s microbiome to look and feel its best, by keeping the bacteria and microorganisms on the top layer of our skin healthy.
Common prebiotic ingredients include inulin, glycerol, xylitol, alpha-glucan oligosaccharides, and glucomannan (a supplement extracted from konjac), as well as a number of plant extracts, including barely, oats, and flaxseed. This is good news if you’re looking for vegan-friendly skincare, as these ingredients are plant-based.
How does prebiotic skincare work?
Although prebiotics work differently when applied directly to the skin rather than consumed orally, the premise is the same. Prebiotics in skincare support the existing microorganisms living on your skin that improves the overall health of your complexion. That’s because they keep the bad stuff (pollution, free radicals, and bacteria) out, and the good stuff in, by protecting and maintaining that healthy outer layer of the skin.
There is still lots of research to be done, but it’s thought that treating the microbiome on your skin topically is more effective than supplements taken orally for the specific purpose of improving the skin, as you’re getting straight to the source. Having said that, a healthy gut equals healthy skin so taking a prebiotic supplement is always a good idea, too.
Prebiotic vs probiotic skincare
Prebiotics and probiotics both help keep the skin’s microbiome in good condition, as they keep your skin free from inflammation. Having said that, they work in slightly different ways but often in synergy with one another to get the best possible outcome. Probiotic skincare essentially gives the skin good bacteria, but it needs to contain live microorganisms to have a worthwhile effect.
Prebiotics, on the other hand, don’t need to be live, as they’re ingredients that instead feed or activate the skin’s pre-existi
Are prebiotics good for the skin?
Yes, prebiotics are good for your skin. They help build a stable, balanced skin microbiome, which is the foundation to happy and healthy skin. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, prebiotics are gentle yet effective enough to use. And if you have a compromised skin barrier, incorporating prebiotics into your skincare routine could help restore its health.
What are the prebiotic benefits for skin?
There are plenty of prebiotic skincare benefits making it a well-worth addition to your routine.
– Safe to use: Thanks to its ability to rebalance and restore the skin’s microbiome, it’s generally safe (and excellent) for all skin types, including many skin conditions, including acne, rosacea, and eczema.
– Less skin concerns: Caring for the skin’s microbiome and barrier means that many of your skin concerns are also taken care of. Think: reduced fine lines, minimised dullness, and decreased redness and inflammation. So really, anyone can get the benefits of prebiotic skincare, especially when combined with calming, moisturising ingredients like cica, centella asiatica, and glycerin.
– Topical application benefits: When we apply creams, serums or treatments with these ingredients, we can directly control the area where they get to work. This direct contact with skin is proven to enhance skin’s natural defenses by promoting the growth of beneficial and neutral microorganisms on the surface.
When should I use prebiotic skincare?
Prebiotic skincare often comes in the form of prebiotic moisturisers, prebiotic cleansers, and prebiotic serums. The great news is that you can use prebiotic skincare any time; morning or evening and at any stage in your routine, depending on the product you’re using.
As with any new product you’re introducing, do so when using other products in your routine that you know and trust. That way, you can easily tell whether your new, prebiotic product is having a positive impact on your skin, or whether it’s not one that’s doing your complexion any favours.
5 Prebiotic Skincare Products You Should Try
1. By BEAUTY BAY Prebiotic Cleansing Whip + Sugar Complex
Skincare step: Prebiotic cleanser
Why we love it: Ultra-gentle, non-stripping, protects and strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier
If you’re looking for a cleanser that’s suitable for all skin types and gentle enough to use in the AM and PM, try our prebiotic cleanser. The prebiotic supports the skin barrier to balance and boost natural defences, leaving skin softer, clearer, and refreshed. And there’s even added corn-derived sugar complex works to deliver hydration thanks to similarities to the skin’s Natural Moisturising Factor (NMF), leaving you with a healthier looking complexion.
2. Eve Lom Radiance Repair Retinol Serum
Skincare step: Prebiotic serum
Why we love it: Prevents signs of ageing, hydrates skin
Thanks to the prebiotic oat kernel ferment and retinol included in this Eve Lom serum, your skin is effectively protected against signs of ageing. It also hydrates skin for up to 72 hours after use, as well as improving the skin’s barrier function for up to 12 hours. So, you’re left with tighter, smoother, more even skin.
3. Dermalogica Micellar Prebiotic Precleanse
Skincare step: Prebiotic cleanser
Why we love it: Delicate, non-stripping, creamy consistency
This Dermalogica precleanse might be one of our favourite first cleansers, as it uses micelles to lift away dirt, oil, and makeup but has a creamy, lightweight consistency. It expertly removes makeup without disrupting the delicate skin barrier or stripping skin. And it even features apricot kernel oil to deliver antioxidant benefits, as well as amino acid-rich cotton seed protein to reinforce the skin barrier.
4. Allies of Skin Prebiotics & Niacinamide Pore Refining Booster
Skincare step: Prebiotic serum
Why we love it: Brightens skin, reduces the appearance of pores
This Allies of Skin serum features a prebiotics and probiotics complex that helps strengthen the skin while reducing sensitivity and redness, as well as boosting and promoting microbiome activity for healthier skin. It also features niacinamide, which helps reduce the appearance of pores and fine lines, as well as fading uneven texture. In time, you’ll notice a healthy glow and brighter-looking skin.
5. The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + Inulin Body Lotion
Skincare step: Prebiotic body cream
Why we love it: Lightweight formula, ultra-hydrating
It’s not just your face that can benefit from prebiotics, but also your body. This body lotion from The Ordinary has been proven to strengthen the skin’s barrier after just one application as it features inulin, which is a prebiotic. Thanks to a lightweight, non-greasy formula, this lotion is suitable for all skin types to use. Also packed with natural moisturising factors like urea, PCA, and amino acids that hold onto water, your skin stays hydrated all day long.
