Review: Probiotics in dermatology

Self-preserving gelatin emulgel containing whole cell probiotic for topical use: preclinical safety, efficacy, and germination studies

BACKGROUND

Dermal disorders, owing to disruption of skin-microflora balance can be served by direct application of probiotics. However, there are few topical whole probiotic products in market because of (i) loss of viability during manufacturing and storage(ii) inadequate germination and retention on skin. Presently we report a novel (IPA 201811010395) emulgel incorporatingBacillus coagulans (Unique IS-2) for possible topical use.

METHODS

Developed emulgel was characterized for particle size, texture, rheology, morphology, water activity, self-preservation, safety, and stability.

RESULTS

We successfully incorporated 97 ± 5% (1.7×10⁸CFU/g) Bacillus coagulans in honeycomb network of gelatin nanoparticles (≈600 nm). Maintenance of CFU at 30 ± 2°C, 65 ± 5% RH for 3 months confirmed viability of incorporated probiotic. Low water-activity (0.66-0.732a_w) and challenge test (0.05-0.5% viability) confirmed its self-preserving nature. Early initiation (6 h) and complete (24 h) spore germination was evident onrabbit skin. No cytotoxicity, dermal irritation or translocation established its safety. Faster wound closure and reduced oxidative stress (LPO, catalase, SOD, glutathione reductase) in comparison to Soframycin® (1%w/w Framycetin) was observed in excision wound in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

A whole cell probiotic formulation that is self-preserving, maintains probiotic viability, guarantees germination, and has wound healing properties was successfully formulated.

Advantages of Hyaluronic Acid and Its Combination with Other Bioactive Ingredients in Cosmeceuticals

This study proposes a review on hyaluronic acid (HA) known as hyaluronan or hyaluronate and its derivates and their application in cosmetic formulations. HA is a glycosaminoglycan constituted from two disaccharides (N-acetylglucosamine and D-glucuronic acid), isolated initially from the vitreous humour of the eye, and subsequently discovered in different tissues or fluids (especially in the articular cartilage and the synovial fluid). It is ubiquitous in vertebrates, including humans, and it is involved in diverse biological processes, such as cell differentiation, embryological development, inflammation, wound healing, etc. HA has many qualities that recommend it over other substances used in skin regeneration, with moisturizing and anti-ageing effects. HA molecular weight influences its penetration into the skin and its biological activity. Considering that, nowadays, hyaluronic acid has a wide use and a multitude of applications (in ophthalmology, arthrology, pneumology, rhinology, aesthetic medicine, oncology, nutrition, and cosmetics), the present study describes the main aspects related to its use in cosmetology. The biological effect of HA on the skin level and its potential adverse effects are discussed. Some available cosmetic products containing HA have been identified from the brand portfolio of most known manufacturers and their composition was evaluated. Further, additional biological effects due to the other active ingredients (plant extracts, vitamins, amino acids, peptides, proteins, saccharides, probiotics, etc.) are presented, as well as a description of their possible toxic effects.