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Review
. 2023 Sep 22;28(19):6765.
doi: 10.3390/molecules28196765.

Applications of Probiotic Constituents in Cosmetics

Jiaxin Dou  1   2 , Ning Feng  3 , Fangyu Guo  1   2 , Zouquan Chen  1   2 , Jie Liang  1   2 , Ting Wang  1   2 , Xueping Guo  4 , Zhenshang Xu  1   2
Affiliations
Review

Applications of Probiotic Constituents in Cosmetics

Jiaxin Dou et al. Molecules. .

Abstract

Over the past few decades, research on the benefits of beneficial microorganisms on skin health has expanded and attracted a lot of attention. Today, a wide range of probiotic products are becoming available. With their extensive component profiles and varied physiological effects, probiotics, as well as extracts of them, have a significant impact on cosmetics. However, the present boom in consumer interest in alternatives has broadened the probiotic industry's research and development frontiers. Considering the foregoing, it should come as no surprise that probiotics are highly valued for their proven anti-aging, skin whitening, anti-inflammatory, and photoprotective effects. This review aims to compile information on probiotics' properties, their extracts, and preparations used in cosmetics. It also further summarizes research and applications on probiotic fermentation to promote the use of probiotic fermentation products in cosmetics. Notably, this review also adds information on particular properties and mechanisms of action of probiotics, which fills a gap in the research and application of probiotics in skin treatment and care. Their antioxidant and anti-aging qualities have received particular consideration. This review provides a new basis for the broad application of probiotics in cosmetics.

Keywords: anti-aging; beneficial microorganisms; cosmetics; dermatology; probiotics; skin care.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
The primary processes by which probiotics promote skin health.
Figure 2
Figure 2
The significant cosmetic properties of probiotics. (↑—Increased expression,↓—Reduced expression)The effect of probiotics on the free radicals is multidirectional and includes the direct quenching of reactive oxygen (ROS) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPS) species; the enhancement of endogenic antioxidant enzyme production (SOD (superoxide dismutase) and glutathione); the inhibition of enzymes involved in ROS generation (glutathione S-transferase, microsomal monooxygenase, mitochondrial succinoxidase, or NADH oxidase); the protection and regeneration of antioxidant compounds (vitamin C or E).
Figure 3
Figure 3
Anti-aging and moisturizing effects of probiotics. (A) Probiotics improve skin hydration; (B) probiotics reduce skin wrinkles.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Mechanism of action of probiotics to inhibit melanogenesis. Probiotics inhibit tyrosinase activity by producing tyrosinase inhibitors; probiotics inhibit tyrosinase activity by promoting the production of phenylacetic acid; probiotics destroy tyrosine by producing lactic acid; probiotics destroy melanin by producing substances that degrade melanin.
Figure 5
Figure 5
The role of probiotics in the treatment of acne. The main causes of acne are increased secretion of androgens, which contributes to an increased rate of sebaceous cell production; rapid multiplication of propionibacterium acnes; inflammatory reactions.
Figure 6
Figure 6
Role of probiotic fermentation in anti-aging. (↑—Increased expression, ↓—Reduced expression).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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