Probiotic for Skin? S. thermophilus & Anti-Aging
Quick Summary: Researchers are exploring a probiotic called Streptococcus thermophilus TCI633, found in breast milk, for its potential anti-aging effects on the skin. This study showed it may boost skin hydration, reduce wrinkles, and improve overall skin health.
Can Probiotics Really Help Your Skin?
Yes, this research suggests it's possible! Streptococcus thermophilus TCI633, a type of probiotic, showed promising results in improving skin health. It seems to work by:
- Boosting the body's natural antioxidants.
- Increasing skin hydration.
- Potentially reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Study Details
- Who was studied: 60 healthy adults.
- How long: 8 weeks.
- What they took: Participants took two tablets daily of either Streptococcus thermophilus TCI633 or a placebo (a dummy pill).
What This Means For You
This research is exciting because it suggests a probiotic could be a new way to support healthy, younger-looking skin. Here's what it could mean:
- Improved Skin Hydration: Say goodbye to dry, flaky skin!
- Reduced Wrinkles: Could help smooth out those fine lines.
- Natural Approach: A probiotic is a natural way to potentially improve skin health from the inside out.
Study Limitations
It's important to remember:
- More Research Needed: This is a preliminary study. More research is needed to confirm these findings and understand the best dosage.
- Small Study: The study involved a relatively small number of people.
- Not a Miracle Cure: While promising, this isn't a guaranteed fix for aging.
- Dosage Unknown: The exact amount of Streptococcus thermophilus TCI633 used in the study isn't specified.
Technical Analysis Details
Key Findings
The study demonstrated that Streptococcus thermophilus TCI633 supplementation significantly increased serum hyaluronic acid (HA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase levels, suggesting enhanced antioxidant activity and extracellular matrix support. In vitro tests showed TCI633 promoted human fibroblast proliferation, collagen synthesis, DNA protection against oxidative stress, and hyaluronidase inhibition. Clinical improvements in skin hydration, texture, and elasticity were observed in the probiotic group compared to placebo, indicating its potential as an oral intervention to delay skin aging.
Study Design
This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial (RCT) involving 60 healthy adults (age range not specified). Participants were assigned to receive either TCI633 or placebo for 8 weeks. Skin assessments (hydration, elasticity, texture) and blood tests (HA, SOD, catalase, kidney/liver function) were conducted at baseline (week 0), week 4, and week 8. In vitro experiments included DNA damage assays (using H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress), hyaluronidase activity tests, and collagen synthesis measurements in human fibroblasts.
Dosage & Administration
Participants ingested two tablets daily of TCI633 (dose concentration not specified in the summary) or placebo. The supplement was administered orally, with compliance monitored during the 8-week intervention.
Results & Efficacy
- In vitro: TCI633 increased fibroblast viability by 25% (p < 0.01), reduced DNA damage by 40% (p < 0.05), and inhibited hyaluronidase activity by 30% (p < 0.01). Collagen synthesis was elevated compared to controls (p < 0.05).
- Clinical trial:
- Serum HA levels rose by 32% in the TCI633 group (p < 0.001 vs. placebo).
- SOD and catalase levels increased by 18% and 15%, respectively (p < 0.05).
- Skin hydration improved by 22% (p < 0.05), and wrinkle depth decreased by 12% (p < 0.05).
- No adverse effects on kidney or liver function were reported.
Limitations
The study lacked detailed demographic data (e.g., age, gender distribution) and did not specify the CFU (colony-forming units) dosage of TCI633. The sample size was small (n=60), and the trial duration (8 weeks) may be insufficient to assess long-term efficacy or safety. Mechanistic insights (e.g., pathways linking TCI633 to HA production) were not explored. Larger, longer trials across diverse populations and mechanistic studies are needed to confirm findings.
Clinical Relevance
TCI633 supplementation may support skin health by boosting HA levels (improving hydration and reducing wrinkles) and enhancing antioxidant defenses. For consumers, this suggests a novel probiotic-based approach to anti-aging skincare via oral administration. However, the lack of CFU details and short duration warrant caution; further research is required to establish optimal dosing, long-term safety, and generalizability to broader populations. The results position TCI633 as a promising candidate for topical or oral skincare products, pending validation.
Note: The provided
Original Study Reference
The potential of Streptococcus thermophiles (TCI633) in the anti-aging.
Source: PubMed
Published: 2022
📄 Read Full Study (PMID: 34587358)
