Topical postbiotics may offer a new option for managing common inflammatory skin conditions such as acne and atopic dermatitis (eczema), according to researchers in a recent literature review published in Cureus.

Postbiotics, defined as nonliving microbial components and metabolites, differ from probiotics in that they do not contain live organisms and therefore do not carry the infection risk associated with live microbial therapies. Researchers reported that these formulations may influence the skin microbiome, reduce inflammation, and improve skin barrier function—processes disrupted in conditions such as acne and eczema.

Across 16 studies included in the review, postbiotic-based treatments were generally associated with improvements in both acne and atopic dermatitis. In patients with eczema, treatment was linked to reductions in disease severity and itching, along with improved skin barrier function and longer periods between flares.

In acne, postbiotics were associated with reductions in inflammatory lesions, decreased oil production, and inhibition of Cutibacterium acnes, a bacterium involved in acne pathogenesis. Some studies reported reductions in lesion counts of 50% to 70%, along with favorable tolerability profiles.

These therapies may serve as an adjunct or alternative to traditional treatments such as topical antibiotics or benzoyl peroxide, particularly among patients who experience irritation or have concerns about antimicrobial resistance.

Evidence for postbiotics in rosacea remains limited. Although prior research suggests the skin microbiome may play a role in rosacea, the review found no clinical trials evaluating topical postbiotics in this population. Researchers identified this as a key gap and a priority for future investigation.

However, the included studies varied in design and size, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Evidence was strongest for acne and atopic dermatitis, with more limited and heterogeneous data overall.

Overall, the findings suggest that postbiotics may represent a safe, well-tolerated addition to dermatologic treatment strategies. Further studies are needed to better define their role in clinical practice and to evaluate their efficacy in conditions such as rosacea.

The researchers reported no relevant financial relationships.

Source: Cureus