From Anirva. This article is general information, not medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Lactobacilli are a well-studied group of probiotic bacteria, and some strains have drawn research interest for a possible role in skin health. Here's what the research on L. acidophilus and L. paracasei actually shows.
In this article
Key Takeaways
- Lactobacilli are a group of probiotic bacteria naturally found in the gut, and some strains have been studied for a possible role in skin health, including acne.
- This research is early, and no probiotic has been shown to cure, treat, or eliminate acne.
- Lactobacilli are available in foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, as well as in supplement form.
- Probiotic supplements are generally well tolerated, but anyone with a weakened immune system or a serious health condition should check with a doctor before starting one.
What Are Lactobacilli?
Lactobacilli are rod-shaped bacteria in the lactic acid bacteria group. Most species are classified as probiotics — live microorganisms that, per a World Health Organization definition, may confer a health benefit when consumed in adequate amounts. Lactobacilli naturally live throughout the digestive tract, with some species also found in the urinary and genital tract.
Of the roughly 180 known Lactobacilli species, a handful have been studied specifically in relation to skin health — including L. acidophilus and L. paracasei.
L. Acidophilus
L. acidophilus is found naturally in the mouth, gut, and vagina. Research has looked at its interactions with S. aureus, a bacterium associated with acne and other skin conditions. A small Italian study using 250 mg of L. acidophilus combined with B. bifidum looked at acne lesion counts in supplemented participants (1).
L. acidophilus is a common starter culture in yogurt, milk, and infant formula production, making fermented dairy one of its more accessible dietary sources.
L. Paracasei
L. paracasei is found in dairy products, plant-based ferments, and the human digestive tract. Research has studied its role in gut barrier function — the tight junctions between gut cells that limit what passes into the bloodstream (2).
L. paracasei produces bacteriocins, proteins that can inhibit the growth of other microorganisms, including some associated with acne. A study on supplementation over two months found changes in skin sensitivity and recovery time in reactive skin (3), and separate research has looked at L. paracasei's role in immune cell function (4).
What the Research Does Not Yet Show
Research on Lactobacilli and skin health is still developing. These strains have not been shown to cure, treat, or prevent acne or any other disease. If you're dealing with persistent or severe acne, a dermatologist can help you find an approach that fits your skin.
Where to Find Lactobacilli
Lactobacilli are found naturally in fermented foods including yogurt, miso, tempeh, kefir, sauerkraut, and cheese. They're also available as dietary supplements in capsule, tablet, and powder form.
Safety
Probiotic supplements are generally well tolerated; mild digestive effects like bloating or gas are the most commonly reported. People with a weakened immune system, a serious gut condition, or a heart valve condition, and anyone taking medication that affects the immune system, should talk to a doctor before starting a probiotic supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Lactobacilli cure or eliminate acne?
What's the difference between L. acidophilus and L. paracasei?
Is it safe to take a Lactobacillus supplement?
References
- L. acidophilus and B. bifidum supplementation and acne lesion counts: a study. PMCID: PMC6678709.
- L. paracasei and gut barrier function: a review. PMCID: PMC5440529.
- L. paracasei supplementation and reactive skin: a study. PMID: 24322879.
- L. paracasei and immune cell function: a study. PMCID: PMC5418745.
