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What an Itchy Scalp Means & How to Get Rid of It Naturally

The AHA! Team — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 08:25:19 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN via Dr. Axe – Do you have an itch? Some scratch their heads while giving something some serious thought in a “hmm, let me think about that” sort of moment. But for many others, a serious scratching is desired because there is a genuine and persistent itch on the head, specifically an itchy scalp. Often, we assume it must be dandruff, a common problem, but there are many conditions that can cause a dry, itchy scalp — or scalp pruritus — in addition to dandruff, such as ringworm or even a bacterial infection caused by an autoimmune condition. With itching being the most common symptom, skin infections, swelling, redness, balding and damaged hair may also result from an itchy scalp. Common treatments are usually in some form of antimicrobial or keratolytic therapy (overseen by a dermatologist), steroids and special diets. However, there is no doubt that one of the most effective treatments for itchy scalp is a good old shampoo scrub to help remove loose and scaly skin. And to really stop the itch long-term, you need to find out what’s causing it. Let’s look at some of the best natural treatments for an itchy scalp and the most common causes. 6 Natural Remedies for Itchy Scalp 1. Tea Tree Oil Tea tree oil is an amazing essential oil also known as melaleuca. What’s great about tea tree oil is that it provides antioxidant benefits and is antimicrobial, which means it has the ability to fight bacteria, viruses and fungus. According to research published in the International Journal of Dermatology, numerous studies have shown that tea tea oil is great for various inflammatory symptoms, including seborrheic dermatitis, ultimately helping with the healing process. Another study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology closely followed the results that tea tree oil had on subjects with dandruff using a shampoo that contained 5 percent tea tree oil. An improvement of 41 percent was reported by those who used the tea tree oil shampoo, helping relieve itchy scalp and dandruff itself. 2. Clean Your Hair, Brushes and Combs While not all causes of itchy scalp have anything to do with a contagious condition, some, such as tinea capitis, do. Maintaining good personal hygiene is very important in addition to avoiding sharing combs and brushes. Since tinea capitis, or ringworm, is more common in children, make sure to take extra care with educating your children on these best practices and simple natural remedies. 3. Use a Hair and Scalp Mask Have you ever tried a banana, avocado and honey hair and scalp mask? These three ingredients can actually do some pretty phenomenal things to your head and scalp. Honey, for example, has long been known as an ancient remedy for wound healing, with many reports suggesting that the microorganisms found in honey help fight bacteria and fungi. A hair mask can provide the perfect bacteria fighters and, if used a few times a week, can really make a difference in a healthy way. Simply combine a small mashed banana, two tablespoons of honey and half an avocado until well-blended. Then apply it to your hair, making sure to cover the scalp. Leave it on for 20–30 minutes, then wash hair with a natural shampoo. 4. Avoid Inflammatory, Infection-Causing Foods Much like candida, fungus can be caused and inflamed due to foods you eat. It’s critical that you avoid inflammatory foods, such as anything processed, sugar, gluten, dairy, soy, peanuts and alcohol, to name a few. The best thing you can do is make sure your diet is filled with antifungal foods. Some of those foods include garlic, apple cider vinegar, banana, avocado, flaxseed, ginger and coconut oil. 5. Avoid Putting Chemicals on Your Hair Chemicals are found in most products found on the shelves at your local store. These chemicals can lead straight to an itchy scalp, bumps on the scalp and other scalp conditions. The good news is that this is an easy fix. By avoiding chemicals and choosing natural remedies, you can bypass the negative effects. Opt for making your own — such as rosemary mint shampoo, homemade conditioner or apple cider vinegar hair rinse — and see if that solves the problem. Because many of these suds contain chemicals and other other rash-causing agents, they may irritate the scalp. This irritation can cause lots of itching and redness, and even present allergic reactions, such as hives and wheezing. 6. Glycerin A study in SKINmed Journal investigated how effective a moisturizing leave-on lotion containing a high concentration of glycerol (10 percent) and other known scalp benefitting agents (saturated fatty acid and sunflower seed oil) to reduce dandruff over an eight-week treatment period with three applications per week. Results included a significant reduction in the dandruff, including better water barrier function and hydration, over the span of the trial. Glycerin also showed how it helped relieve an itchy scalp. 7. Aloe Vera Aloe vera is a great natural treatment for dry hair or an itchy scalp. It has nourishing properties, and the vitamins and minerals that are present in the plant keep your hair strong and healthy. Because of its antibacterial and antifungal properties, studies indicate that it helps with dandruff, and the gel’s enzymes can rid the scalp of dead cells and promote the regeneration of skin tissue around the hair follicles. Aloe also helps stop the itching associated with dandruff or a dried scalp. Too many shampoos and conditioners are full of chemicals that damage hair and can even cause inflammation and skin irritations; adding aloe vera is an effective way to keep your scalp free of bacteria and uncomfortable skin reactions. Itchy Scalp Causes 1. Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are the most common when it comes to itchy scalp causes. Itching and flaking are how the body responds to the inflammation of the overgrowth of yeast. Yeast is typically found on the scalp and other areas of the body where more hair is located. While the presence of yeast is common, it’s the over-presence of yeast that creates the problem. In particular, a yeast called malassezia can cause excess skin cell growth and irritate the scalp. To get more specific, dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are of a continuous spectrum of the same disease that affects the seborrheic areas of the body, and often those who have eczema will have dandruff. Dandruff occurs on the scalp and usually involves itchy, flaking skin, but you many not see actual inflammation. On the other hand, seborrheic dermatitis can affect the scalp (including having a sensitive scalp) as well as other areas of the body, but in addition to itchy, flaking or scaly skin, which can be severe, it involves inflammation. Characteristics like the immune system, genetics, emotional stress and nutrition can all affect the actual occurrence and severity of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. 2. Allergic Reactions from Food and Shampoos Allergic reactions can occur from numerous sources, but two of the most common sources are from your food and your shampoo. There are so many foods, such as processed sugar, peanuts and soy products, that contain inflammation- and fungus-causing attributes, and unless you avoid them, you’re likely to have some problems. Additionally, if your shampoo or hair color contains tons of chemicals, it’s possible that your scalp is having an allergic reaction to those chemicals, known as contact dermatitis. There are options, but one of the first things you should do is stop using your current shampoo, hair color and conditioner to see if the problem subsides. 3. Autoimmune Disease Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease, and psoriasis symptoms include raised, reddish, scaly patches on the skin or scalp. Though we know that psoriasis is hereditary, experts don’t have a clear understanding of the cause. It’s been reported that at least 10 percent of those who inherit one or more of the genes could lead to psoriasis, but only 2 percent to 3 percent actually develop the disease. It’s important that you do not let psoriasis linger without attention, as it can lead to an itchy scalp and worsen if not treated. 4. Tinea Capitis (Ringworm) or Lichen Planopilaris Tinea capitis is a fungal infection, commonly known as ringworm, that often causes infection in the scalp area. It happens due to a deep extension of the fungus into the hair follicle and can develop into round patches of hair loss (aka Alopecia areata). It often appears as a raised rash and may have black dots or a stubbly appearance. Related skin infections are often found in a man’s beard, in the groin known as jock itch, and between the toes commonly, known as athlete’s foot. Fungus can live on the dead tissue in the hair, nail and outer skin areas. Tinea capitis is more likely if you have minor skin or scalp injuries, don’t bathe or wash your hair often, or have wet skin for a long periods of time, often from sweating. It easily spreads, affecting children mostly, but usually disappears into puberty. Unlike psoriasis, tinea capitis or ringworm can spread through human or animal contact, combs and brushes, hats, or any other clothing that has come into contact with the fungus. Similarly, an inflammatory condition called lichen planopilaris (LPP) causes patchy hair loss, mainly on the scalp, and can cause an extremely itchy scalp. 5. Head Lice Head lice may be considered something that happens only with kids in school, but those little creatures can invade the head of an adult too. In fact, lice actually prefer clean hair. Symptoms of lice are most commonly itching on the scalp, neck and ears, which is an allergic reaction to the saliva the lice produce. Sometimes itching may not occur for two to six weeks after infestation, especially for anyone infected for the first time. The eggs of lice, known as nits, are super tiny and attach to individual hair strands. This can appear as dandruff, but unlike flakes of dandruff, they aren’t easily shaken off due to their firm grip of the hair shaft. Final Thoughts As noted above, make sure you don’t share combs and brushes. If you experience any allergic reactions and are not sure why, begin a process of elimination to help find the culprit. Again, chemicals in shampoos, conditioners and other hair products along with some foods you may be eating can cause itchy scalp and irritations of the scalp. If any severe cases arise or the problem persists, make sure to see a doctor right away. Finding a solution for itchy scalp may be simple. Take the time to go through different options to see if you can find the culprit, and then take action. Waiting around will only allow it to fester and worsen. To read the original article click here.

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Succinic Acid Benefits for Skin + How to Use It

AHA Publisher — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 07:07:18 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – If you consider yourself to be “in the know” on the latest skin care ingredients, one multifunctional facial acid you’re bound to come across is succinic acid. What does succinic acid do for skin? It’s best known for its acne-fighting abilities, but other reasons to add this powerhouse acid to your routine include because it defends against signs of aging as well as dullness and irritation. Where will you find succinic acid? Look for it in facial serums intended to prevent wrinkles, acne treatments and some masks or lotions. What Is Succinic Acid? Succinic acid (SA) is a type of antimicrobial facial acid that’s used in skin care products to clear and brighten the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects — plus it can help soothe irritated skin. SA is considered similar to another very popular facial acid: hyaluronic acid. While hyaluronic acid is used most often for its hydrating and plumping effects, SA is used to remove bacteria from the pores and manage breakouts. What is the other name for succinic acid? It’s sometimes also called butanedioic acid. Where does SA come from? It’s naturally found in some plants and even in animals tissues, much like acids such as butyric acid (found in some foods containing fat, such as butter and ghee). When used in skin care products, SA is typically derived from amber or sugar cane. It can be created via the hydrogenation of maleic acid. Not only is it used in skin care, but it’s also found in some supplements and drugs and used in agricultural and food production. Benefits Succinic acid benefits are vast considering it possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant abilities. Whether you’re acne-prone or hoping to fight wrinkles and other signs of aging, here are some of the main reasons to use succinic acid on your skin: 1. Can Help Clear Acne Unlike some other acne treatments and acids, SA helps fight acne and blackheads without causing irritation. It can prevent breakouts due to its ability to kill bacteria and yeast that can be hiding inside pores. Is succinic acid good for cystic acne? Because it also works as an anti-inflammatory agent, it may be able to help reduce the severity of cystic acne breakouts. What’s more, it can help balance skin and treat multiple problems — such as redness, tenderness and oiliness — among those with conditions such as acne, eczema or psoriasis. 2. Soothes Skin and Reduces Inflammation One cool attribute that SA has is that it’s similar to your skin’s own natural oils. This means it can help hydrate and treat irritated, dry or inflamed skin without contributing to excess sebum (oil) production. It’s known to support wound healing and even has some pain-dulling effects, meaning it may make skin rashes or pimples less painful. 3. Has Antioxidant and Anti-aging Effects Due to its antioxidant properties, SA can help slow down signs of aging — such as dark spots, dullness and fine lines— by protecting skin against free radical damage. It also assists in cellular turnover and renewal, which can leave skin looking for refreshed, firm, even and bright. How to Use Most people can use SA daily without experiencing irritation. While each type of product containing SA works a bit differently, it should generally be applied to clean and dried skin under thicker moisturizers. Most often you’ll find this acid in lightweight products, such as serums, which are intended to be applied to the skin first before heavier creams or lotions. Succinic acid acne treatment tips: If you’re acne-prone, be sure to wash your skin twice daily with a gentler cleanser before using SA or other products. You can pair succinic acid with stronger ingredients that fight pimples and clogged pores, such as salicylic acid, retinoids or sulfur. However, these other acne-fighters may need to be used less often than SA, as they’re a bit stronger. If you have oily skin, consider also using SA with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are acids that have exfoliating effects. AHAs — such as malic acid, lactic acid or glycolic acid — can help brighten dull skin, treat dryness and acne, and allow other ingredients to penetrate the skin more easily. Use AHAs several times per week while applying SA one to two times daily. Using succinic acid for antioxidant and anti-aging benefits: For help hydrating dry or combination skin that is also prone to breakouts, consider pairing SA with hyaluronic acid, another great acid for locking in moisture. Both of these are usually safe and effective when used daily. It will also work well with products containing vitamin C, niacinamide and retinol, which improve skin’s tone and texture. Risks and Side Effects Is succinic acid harmful for sensitive skin? Not usually. One of the best things about this ingredient is that it doesn’t interact negatively with most other skin care ingredients and poses little risk for side effects. Overall, it’s considered a calming, hydrating, well-tolerated facial acid, even among those with acne, rosacea, dryness and sensitivities to other skin care products. That being said, it’s always wise to start with a tiny amount of any new skin care product and then increase gradually once you test your reaction. You can also ask your dermatologist for advice if you’re concerned about using specific facial acids. Conclusion Succinic acid benefits include treating acne, reducing skin dryness, fighting free radical damage and signs of aging, and decreasing irritation and inflammation. This specific acid is generally gentle and well-tolerated, so it can be used by people with almost all skin types. Apply it to clean skin once or twice daily under thicker moisturizers. Pair it with other acids for even more antimicrobial, hydrating and exfoliating effects. To read the original article click here.

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Dietary Supplements for Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

AHA Publisher — Wed, 05 May 2021 07:00:13 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via Nutrition Facts – Are there dietary supplements that can help with atopic dermatitis? Atopic dermatitis, more commonly known as eczema, ranks “as the skin disease with the greatest health burden worldwide” because it’s just so common, affecting maybe one in ten kids and about 3 percent of adults, causing patches of red, itchy skin. Topical steroids, like cortisone cream, have been “the mainstay treatment” since their Nobel Prize-winning discovery in 1950. People are scared of steroids, though, and “it is not uncommon for patients to express irrational fear and anxiety about using topical corticosteroids”—steroid creams and ointments. This phobia may arise from confusing topical steroids with oral or injected steroids, which have different effects. Really potent topical steroids can thin your skin, but skin thickness should return to normal a month after stopping. So, yes, topical steroids can cause side effects, but the concern people have “seems out of proportion” to the small risk they actually pose. Still, if there’s a way you can resolve a problem without drugs, that’s generally preferable. What did they do for eczema before the 1950s? In the 1930s, some researchers tried using vitamin D dissolved in corn oil, and to their surprise, it worked—but so did the corn oil without the vitamin D they were using as a control. Others reported cases improving after feeding flaxseed oil and even ingesting lard, from a study “aided by a grant from the National Live Stock and Meat Board,” which apparently did not want to be left out of the action. The problem is that none of these studies had a control group. So, yes, after feeding someone corn oil for 12 to 18 months, they got better—but maybe they would have gotten better anyway. You don’t know until you put it to the test. Nearly all of those researchers who claimed benefit from the use of the various fats apparently “lack[ed]…any great interest in a controlled series,” but one researcher tested some oils and found no evidence of benefit over routine treatment. Indeed, as you can see at 2:06 in my video Eczema Treatment with Evening Primrose Oil vs. Borage Oil vs. Hempseed Oil, most got better either way, which suggests that the previous “benefits claimed may be due to the usual treatment, with perhaps a dash of enthusiasm.” By then, hydrocortisone was out, so the medical community gave up on dietary approaches—until a letter was published in 1981 about the treatment of eczema with supplements of evening primrose oil, which contains gamma linolenic acid, an anti-inflammatory omega-6. And, indeed, when it was put to the test, it seemed to help, but then a subsequent larger study found no effect. Whenever there are conflicting findings, it helps to do a meta-analysis, where you put all the studies together. So, there was the study that showed benefit, the one that didn’t, and seven other studies. What did those find? Seven out of the seven showed benefit. “The results show that the effects of Epogam [a brand of primrose oil supplement] are almost always significantly better than those of placebo.” Case closed, right? Well, the analysis was funded by the supplement company itself, which can be a red flag, and where exactly were the other seven studies published? They weren’t. The company just said it did those seven studies but never released them. When asked to hand them over, the company said it would but never did, even threatening a lawsuit against researchers who dared to question the studies’ efficacy. An independent review failed to find evidence that evening primrose oil or borage oil worked better than placebo. “As we bid goodnight to the evening primrose oil story, perhaps we can awaken to a world where all clinical trial data…reach the light of day…” Borage oil actually has twice the gamma linolenic acid as evening primrose yet it still didn’t work, but that didn’t stop researchers from trying hempseed oil, which “has been used as a food and medicine for at least 3000 years in China.” Researchers tried giving about a quarter cup of hempseeds’ worth of oil to people every day for a few months and found significant improvements in skin dryness, itchiness, and the need for medications—but not compared to placebo. In fact, studies of dietary supplements across the board, whether fish oil, zinc, selenium, vitamins D, E, or B6, sea buckthorn oil, hempseed oil, or sunflower oil, overall, showed “no convincing evidence that taking supplements improved the eczema of those involved.” That’s disappointing, but wait a second. That’s just for oral supplements. What about natural remedies applied topically? I discuss that in my video Eczema Treatment with Coconut Oil vs. Mineral Oil, vs. Vaseline. Meta-analyses can be skewed the other way, too, when negative results are quietly shelved so only positive findings are published. Antidepressant medications are a classic example of this publication bias. Check out my coverage of it in my video Do Antidepressant Drugs Really Work?. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Greger click here.

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Can Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder Improve Dry Winter Skin?

AHA Publisher — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 08:00:37 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Love or hate winter weather, one thing’s for sure, it can wreak havoc on your skin. Can Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder help? If so, what’s the best way to consume it? There are a lot of claims out there regarding collagen supplements. Here’s what the science says when it comes to collagen powder and dry, winter skin. Winter Weather and Your Skin There are many reasons why winter is hard on your skin. They include: Cold air and low humidity. Winter’s cold and dry air can be intensely drying for the skin, vastly reducing the amount of moisture retained. Heaters and indoor fires. Heated indoor air is often dry during the winter. Heaters, forced air, fans and indoor fires all reduce the humidity. Harsh winds. Winds are often stronger during the winter and spring, and this further dries out skin. Coffee and caffeinated teas. When it’s cold outside, many of us drink more warm drinks. If caffeinated, their diuretic effects, while safe, can dry skin from the inside out. Hot showers. A hot shower is actually more drying to the skin than a lukewarm one. If your winter routine includes hot showers, it’s important to keep them short. How can collagen help? 7 Science-Backed Results Showing Collagen Powder Can Improve Dry Winter Skin 1. COLLAGEN POWDER CAN IMPROVE THE ELASTICITY OF SKIN. A 2014 study of 46 women, ages 35-55, showed that eight weeks of collagen powder supplementation improved skin elasticity within just 4 weeks (1). When skin’s elasticity is improved it can stretch and rebound better, without sagging. This increases a youthful appearance. 2. IT CAN REDUCE THE APPEARANCE OF WRINKLES. Another 2014 study concluded that collagen supplementation reduced wrinkles after just 8 weeks of use (2). What’s more, a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology concluded that collagen supplementation not only improved skin moisture but also produced younger-looking, less-fragmented skin (3). 3. COLLAGEN POWDER CAN INCREASE SKIN COLLAGEN CONTENT AND IMPROVE THE STRUCTURE OF THE SKIN. In a 2017 lab study, researchers found that 6 months of oral consumption of collagen increased the collagen content in the skin. It also improved the skin structure and improved the density of different types of collagen (type I and type III). This resulted in improved color and luster of the skin and fur. While this was a study on mice, it is promising for human skin and hair as well (4). 4. IT CAN INCREASE WATER RETENTION IN SKIN. The same study that showed increased skin elasticity showed a measurable decrease in transepidermal water loss and dryness of skin. What’s more, another study of 20 Japanese women concluded that 10 grams of Hydrolyzed Collagenper day improved the water absorption capacity of the skin compared to the placebo group (5). 5. COLLAGEN POWDER CAN INCREASE ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY IN THE SKIN. Our skin is constantly under assault from oxidative stress from our environment (smoke, pollution, UV rays, etc.). By increasing the antioxidant activity in the skin, we increase our chances of fighting these assaults and reducing age-related results (6). 6. COLLAGEN POWDER CAN IMPROVE SKIN WOUND HEALING. In a 2009 lab study, researchers found that collagen supplementation produced quicker wound closure and better tissue regeneration at the wound site. What’s more, the treated mice also formed thicker and better-organized collagen fibers (7). 7. COLLAGEN CAN IMPROVE DIGESTIVE FUNCTION AND DELIVERY OF NUTRIENTS TO THE SKIN. We depend on our digestive tract to absorb the nutrients our cells, tissues, and organs need to thrive. Collagen can help improve digestion, thereby increasing the beneficial nutrients, fats and amino acids that reach the skin. There’s more. Collagen can improve the strength and healing of other connective tissues including ligaments and tendons, and reduce the symptoms of arthritis. What Collagen Is Best? Native vs. Hydrolyzed: The best option for collagen is hydrolyzed collagen powder. While native collagen may have the same amino acids, hydrolyzed is more efficiently absorbed and distributed throughout the body and skin. In the skin, hydrolyzed collagen has been shown to 1) provide building blocks for skin collagen and elastin fibers, and 2) stimulate the creation and growth of new collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid (8). Pills vs. Powder: Most of the human studies show benefits when participants are taking 5-10 grams collagen per day. While this is an easy amount to get through a powder (just 1 scoop of this powder), it is quite difficult and expensive from pills. Most pills only contain 0.5-0.75 grams each, so you would need 10-20 pills per day to get enough! Bottom Line No matter the season, hydrolyzed collagen powder is a great, natural, healthful product that can improve your skin in appearance, structure, and integrity. Along with Keto Zone healthy fats and daily hydration, Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder can absolutely improve dry winter skin. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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Probiotics Reverse Skin Damage

AHA Publisher — Thu, 24 Sep 2020 07:00:55 +0000

Al Sears MD, CNS – Our skin was designed to be porous enough to soak up moisture from the air. But these same open pores make your skin vulnerable to assault by the harmful chemicals in our modern environment. Today’s airborne pollutants are so tiny that it’s easy for them to enter your pores or easily slip through the fat-filled spaces between skin cells. In a recent study by the Leibniz Research Institute, researchers followed 743 Chinese women ages 28 through 70. By the end of this long-term clinical trial, they determined that almost every volunteer had 25% more hyperpigmentation — or age spots — than when the study began. A follow-up study1 by the same researchers determined these pollutants also increase the likelihood of: Uneven skin tone Enlarged pores Redness Dry, itchy skin Eczema Atopic dermatitis Acne Skin cancer But airborne pollutants aren’t the only toxins that destroy your skin’s delicate microbiome… Surprising Cause of Skin Aging Is Sitting on Your Bathroom Counter Turns out… the products we choose to put on our face do the most damage to this delicate microbiome. Some of the most common ingredients in skincare products are actually the same chemicals listed under “hazardous materials” on warning signs and labels. They definitely shouldn’t be used in your skincare routine. The four worst offenders include: Sodium lauryl sulfates. These harsh, corrosive ingredients help body washes and shampoos bubble and lather. But you’ll also find them in household scrubbing solutions and car wash soap. They cause skin irritation, flaking and increased dryness. Over time, that develops into fine lines and wrinkles. Ethanol, methanol and other alcohols. These are all drying ingredients that strip away skin’s natural oils and lead to premature aging and irritation. Mineral oil. Derived from petroleum, it forms a film over your skin, clogging pores and hindering the skin’s natural ability to cleanse itself. With extended use, it can encourage acne and actually irritate and inflame skin. This results in an aging effect that makes fine lines and wrinkles much more visible. Soap. Unless you’re washing your hands, steer clear of commercial soaps. Not only are they drying, most have a pH of 10. And that’s the pH level that bad bacteria thrive in. Nothing can throw your microbiome out of balance faster. Many of today’s commercial skincare products cover your face with chemicals and strip your skin of its natural defenses. Even with the help of soaps and cleansers, you almost never get the environmental toxins and grime out of your pores where they’re hiding. So, what to do? Here are my recommendations for clean, protected skin that will keep you looking young and healthy. Feed Your Skin’s Microbiome to Protect, Repair and Reduce Signs of Aging Clean with rosehip seed oil. Plant derived oils contain essential fatty acid chains that closely resemble your skin’s own lipid matrix. They also contain prebiotics that help nourish and protect the microbiome. One of the best is rosehip seed oil since it’s naturally high in retinoic acid — a cousin to vitamin A. It’s been proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and scars.2 Look for rose hips in your body cleansers. Regenerate tired skin with aloe vera juice. Since ancient Greece, aloe has been used for its ability to reduce inflammation, provide moisture and help restore damaged skin. But today, we know it’s a powerful prebiotic that feeds beneficial bacteria to keep your skin’s biome in balance.3 Note: don’t buy aloe vera gel from the pharmacy. It’s synthetically thickened. Get edible aloe from your health food store. Or grow your own plant. Feed your skin with probiotics. Topical probiotics act like a physical barrier and block harmful microbes from damaging your skin. My favorite is a proven strain called Bifidobacterium longum. In my last letter, I introduced you to foods rich in this probiotic that improve your skin microbiome from the inside. But when its combined with enzymes that help break it down, it brings dull, dry skin back to health. In fact, a recent study found that it strengthens your skin barriers by 25% and stops skin moisture from evaporating.4 To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS 1. Hüls A, et al. “Traffic-related air pollution contributes to development of facial lentigines: Findings epidemiological evidence from Caucasians and Asians.” J Investig Dermatol. 2016:;136(5):P1053-1056. 2. Griffiths C, et al, “Restoration of collagen formation in photodamaged human skin by tretinoin (retinoic acid).” NEJM. 1993;329(8):530-535. 3. Kim Y, et al. “Lactobacillus brevis strains from fermented aloe vera survive gastroduodenal environment and suppress common food borne enteropathogens.” PLoS One. 2014;9(3):e90866. 4. Guéniche A, et al. “Bifidobacterium longum lysate, a new ingredient for reactive skin.” Exp Dermatol.2010;19(8):e1-8. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Al Sears, MD click here.

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