Soaps that kill germs aren't great, however it could also be too early to try products that bring bacteria back.
You could have noticed that antimicrobial skin cleansers have disappeared from the shelves. In September 2016, the FDA ruled that over-the-counter disinfectant soaps and wash products containing triclosan, triclocarbon, or 17 other antimicrobial agents could not be sold because their manufacturers didn’t disclose that These ingredients are each secure and effective in prevention. spread of infection. Moreover, the widespread use of antimicrobials promotes the event of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, similar to methicillin-resistant bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which might cause infections which are difficult to treat and even life-threatening.
You might also have seen some recent sprays, creams, and lotions which have the precise opposite purpose. Instead of eliminating microbes from our skin, these products, called probiotics, are designed to support the expansion of certain useful skin bacteria.
Why Do Probiotics Have Potential?
Just as physicians are using fecal bacteria from healthy people to treat intestinal disorders, dermatologists can use skin bacteria from individuals with healthy skin to treat chronic skin conditions. In such cases, useful strains of bacteria multiply rapidly, leaving less room for disease-causing strains. There are some small studies that indicate that probiotics could also be effective in treating dry and sensitive skin in addition to pimples.
Should you are attempting them?
Although probiotic skin products are already available online and in stores, many questions remain. Does any product contain the proper mixture of bacteria to treat a particular condition? Is it secure? Is it effective? Manufacturers must conduct randomized controlled clinical trials to supply answers. No one has done this till date.
“We're just getting closer to understanding it,” says Dr. Olbrecht. “Someday—maybe in five or 10 years—we can wash our hands and apply some good bacteria to protect our skin.” For now, plain old soap continues to be the very best option for most individuals with normal skin.
Photo: © ladi59/Thinkstock
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