Annoying Ways Your Microbiome Can Trigger Acne Breakouts

7. Prebiotics and Synbiotics: Feeding the Microbiome

Prebiotics, non-digestible fibers that nourish beneficial bacteria, and synbiotics, combinations of probiotics and prebiotics, play a crucial role in maintaining microbiome health. By promoting the growth of beneficial microbes, prebiotics can enhance gut and skin health, potentially reducing acne severity. Synbiotics offer synergistic benefits, combining the effects of probiotics and prebiotics to optimize microbiome balance. Incorporating these into the diet can support a healthy microbiome, offering an additional strategy for acne management. Synbiotics are products or foods that combine probiotics (beneficial live microorganisms) with prebiotics (non-digestible fibers or compounds that feed these beneficial bacteria), working together synergistically to support gut health; for example, kefir with oats, kimchi with garlic/onions, or sauerkraut with legumes.

8. Environmental Factors and Microbiome

Environmental factors, such as pollution and climate, can influence the skin microbiome and contribute to acne. Pollutants can disrupt skin barrier function and microbiome balance, leading to inflammation and acne. Climate changes, such as humidity and temperature fluctuations, can affect sebum production and microbial composition on the skin. Understanding these environmental impacts can guide skincare practices and product choices that protect the skin microbiome, reducing acne risk.