An observational study conducted by the Hairline International Hair & Skin Research & Treatment Center based in Bengaluru has established a connection between gut health and skin conditions. The two-year observational study from July 2021- June 2023 explored how poor gut health can cause common skin conditions such as acne, atopic dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis.
Related: Studies Suggest Severe Acne Can Cause Stigmatizing Stereotypes & Defeatist Perceptions
A total of 2235 patients were part of the study, 62% women and 38% male, each undergoing an H pylori test to assess their gut health. More than 70% of children and pregnant women from various age groups suffered from atopic dermatitis or eczema. The research team administered Atogla probiotics to the participants in the study in addition to conventional medicines. In contrast, the control group received only medication and no probiotics.
Notably, the study uncovered that pregnant women supplemented with probiotics during pregnancy and while breastfeeding reduced the risk of eczema in their children up to the age of 2. The majority of patients, 72%, were under 40, and the study found that 36% of female patients experienced other health issues, such as irregular menstruation, PCOS and hormonal imbalances.
"Remarkably, 80% of patients seeking treatment at Hairline International during the study period had experienced skin issues, including acne, atopic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis," Kala Vimal, M.D., consultant dermatologist & cosmetologist at Hairline International. "Among those with acne vulgaris, a staggering 72% displayed indications of poor gut health, marked by symptoms like food intolerance, allergies, GERD and digestive problems. This underscores the vital role of comprehending the human body as a holistic system."
Dr. Vimal continued, "The research observations are promising since, when we administered oral probiotics alongside other treatments, we observed a remarkable 90% reduction in inflammation and redness among acne patients. This offers hope to those grappling with the challenges of this prevalent skin condition. In the case of psoriasis, which is often linked to gastrointestinal conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, we made a noteworthy discovery that there is an inverse relationship between probiotic use and the occurrence of skin lesions. This revelation strongly suggests that probiotics may open the door to more effective treatments for psoriasis in the near future."
