Probiotic Skincare Technology – not ‘fake science’: interview
Krebs-Bensch is presenting at the in-cosmetics Formulation Summit, which takes place in London on 25-26 October 2017.
Is there a genuine appetite among consumers for products that work with the skin’s natural microbiome?
Yes, currently there is a small market. However, there is an impressive amount of growing interest.
Consumers have reported a belief that probiotics have a positive impact on digestive health. Bacteria-savvy consumers’ perception that natural products are healthier has driven a trend to look for innovative products that will work with the skin’s natural microbiome.
Since probiotics or “good bacteria” are perceived as being safe, the transition into skincare is not a surprise and has garnered the interest of consumers primarily between the ages of 18 and 34. Younger consumers tend to be most interested in probiotics.
However, older consumers, 55+, have also shown an increased interest in the connection between probiotics, immunity and overall wellbeing.
Is this consumer interest rising? If so, why now?
Yes, consumer interest is on the rise. Based on several recent surveys, the average data indicates that 60% or more of consumers reported a belief that probiotics have a positive impact on health.
The idea that there are “good bacteria” that can balance out “bad bacteria” in both the gut and on the skin has led to the interest in skin care probiotics. In addition, probiotic innovation is happening across other categories such as food, beverages and the supplements categories.
What products are currently on the market that are responding to/leading the trends?
Currently there are a limited number of probiotic skincare products. These brands are helping to educate and inform the consumer as to the benefits and use of probiotic applications. Companies such as Bioesse and Aurelia are utilizing probiotics in their products.
However, BeBe and Bella® is the world’s first complete layered skincare system that incorporates two patented probiotic strains supplied in topicals for the outside, and oral supplements for the inside.
Do you think they’re reaching the full potential of the trend, or is there more room to grow and develop these products? Where next for the trend?
The market is in its infancy. Future trends will be focusing on more personalised skincare needs with products tying individual strains and specific combinations of strains for condition-specific benefits.
