PREBIOTICS

PREBIOTICS: Nourish Your Microbiota

SUPPORT | BALANCE | STRENGTHEN

What Are Prebiotics ?

Prebiotics are non-digestible dietary fibers naturally found in certain foods (such as garlic, onion, leek, banana, and Jerusalem artichokes). Unlike probiotics, which are live microorganisms, prebiotics serve as food for the beneficial bacteria (probiotics) in our gut microbiota.

They play a key role in maintaining a healthy intestinal balance by promoting the growth of good bacteria, improving digestion, and supporting stronger immunity. In cosmetics, they are also used to strengthen the skin’s microbiome—an invisible layer of microorganisms that protects the skin from external aggressors.

Where Do Prebiotics Come From ?

Prebiotics naturally occur in a wide range of fiber-rich foods, especially root vegetables (like chicory, Jerusalem artichokes, artichokes), unripe bananas, legumes, and some whole grains. They typically belong to the family of fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), or inulin.

In skincare, prebiotics are extracted from plants or produced via biotechnology. They are included in skincare formulas to balance the skin’s flora, soothe sensitive skin, and strengthen natural defenses.

Properties and Active Mechanisms

Prebiotics do not act directly like traditional active ingredients but rather regulate the microbiome, whether intestinal or cutaneous. Here are their main benefits:

• Stimulate beneficial flora: They selectively feed good bacteria such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.

• Strengthen the intestinal or skin barrier: By improving the flora, they help protect against external threats.

• Indirect anti-inflammatory effect: A balanced flora reduces toxin production and chronic inflammation.

• pH regulation: They promote an acidic environment favorable to protective bacteria, especially on the skin.

• Reduce digestive issues: Help with bloating, irregular transit, or gut inflammation.

What Are the Benefits of Prebiotics ?

Whether used internally (diet, supplements) or externally (cosmetics), prebiotics are powerful allies for overall health.

• Improved digestion: Support healthy bowel movements, reduce bloating, and prevent constipation.

• Stronger immune system: A balanced gut microbiota supports up to 70% of our immune response.

• Support for the skin microbiome: Soothe sensitive skin prone to redness or imbalances (acne, eczema).

• Radiant skin: In cosmetics, they promote healthier, better-hydrated, and naturally glowing skin.

• Infection prevention: A healthy flora is more resistant to harmful pathogens.

Their Key Benefits:

• Feed the beneficial bacteria of the gut and skin microbiota.

• Strengthen the body’s natural defenses.

• Improve digestion and digestive comfort.

• Soothe and rebalance sensitive skin.

How to Consume or Use Prebiotics

In Food:

• Integrate into a fiber-rich diet: garlic, leeks, onions, artichokes, Jerusalem artichokes, asparagus, legumes, unripe bananas, etc.

• Available as dietary supplements (inulin, FOS, GOS) to actively support gut microbiota.

In Cosmetics:

• Balancing creams and serums: For skin prone to redness or acne.

• After-sun or restorative care: Help restore microbial balance on the skin.

• Gentle cleansers: Protect the microbiome by avoiding overly harsh products.

Any Side Effects ?

Prebiotics are generally well tolerated, but some side effects may occur, especially with overconsumption or in sensitive intestines:

• Bloating and gas: Common at the beginning of supplementation or dietary changes.

• Mild laxative effect: Especially with excessive intake of inulin or FOS.

• Skin reactions: Rarely, very sensitive skin may react to a cosmetic formula containing prebiotics.

👉 If in doubt or under medical treatment, consult a healthcare or skincare professional.

Sources

Prebiotics are recognized by the scientific community for their beneficial effects on the microbiota, digestion, and immune health. Their role in cosmetics is supported by recent research showing their ability to restore the skin microbiome and improve the appearance of sensitive or imbalanced skin. They are an integral part of the “microbiome-friendly” trend in modern skincare formulations.

International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP)
🔗 https://isappscience.org
The ISAPP provides validated scientific definitions of prebiotics and explains their role in gut health.

Futura Santé – “Prébiotiques : définition, aliments et bienfaits”
🔗 https://www.futura-sciences.com/sante/definitions/medecine-prebiotique-16036/
A clear, accessible explanation, including a list of prebiotic-rich foods.