The role of microbiota, probiotics and prebiotics in dermatology

Probiotics are living microorganisms that, when used adequately, have beneficial effects on the host, and their superiority is that they are safe and secure for the host. The use of probiotics in addition to the digestive tract, has been studied in immune function, skin diseases, diabetes, cancer, liver disease, hypertension, urogenital system and oral cavity. In general, probiotics seem to be a promising and safe treatment. Nevertheless, more extensive studies are needed to use probiotics as alternative treatments along with old treatments. In dermatology, there is also a widespread use of probiotics and prebiotics. The use of probiotics has been studied in the treatment of atopic dermatitis, acne, eczema, allergic diseases, skin aging, bacterial and fungal infections, chronic wound healing, including diabetic foot ulcers, with promising results. In this review, papers related to the use of probiotics in the treatment of skin diseases were searched in data bases of Pubmed, Google scholar and Medline. Relevant papers were selected and presented. It is expected that probiotics will be used as complimentary treatment in several skin disorders.