Latest news with #Staphylococcusepidermidis
Time of India
09-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Tried everything for acne? Here's why azelaic acid might be the missing ingredient
Have you tried every acne treatment under the sun – cleansers, serums, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, even prescription meds – only to wake up to the same stubborn spots or fresh flare-ups? If your skincare journey feels like an endless war zone, azelaic acid might just be the unsung hero your routine needs. This powerhouse ingredient, naturally produced by skin yeast and derived from grains like barley and rye, has been stealthily gaining fanfare among dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts, but not yet overhyped. Why? Because azelaic acid strikes a rare balance: it's potent enough to tackle acne, redness, hyperpigmentation, and clogged pores, yet gentle enough for sensitive, rosacea-prone, or pregnancy-safe skin. Read on to learn more about why azelaic acid is more than a trendy buzzword and how it works through science-backed mechanisms. What is Azelaic Acid? Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid that is found in grains like wheat, rye, and barley and is also produced by a yeast that lives on the skin. It's a versatile skincare ingredient with multiple benefits, including treating acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation. Azelaic acid works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, reducing inflammation, and helping to unclog pores. What makes Azelaic Acid special? Multifunctional power ingredient: Azelaic acid, according to research , is a dicarboxylic acid that's comedolytic (unclogs pores), keratolytic (loosens dead skin cells), antibacterial against acne-causing Propionibacterium acnes, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant-rich – all in one. Gentler alternative: Unlike harsher acids (AHAs/BHAs) or benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid is well-tolerated even by those with eczema, rosacea, or sensitive skin. Clinically proven efficacy: In randomized trials , 20% azelaic acid reduced non-inflammatory lesions by ~56% and inflammatory lesions by ~72% over 8–12 weeks, outperforming placebo, with similar results against tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, erythromycin, and oral antibiotics. How it works Kills acne-causing bacteria: As per research , targets P. acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis, messes with their protein synthesis, thinning acne-causing bacterial loads. Calms inflammation: Blocks inflammatory triggers like TLR‑2, and quells cytokine and ROS production – especially important for inflamed papules and pustules. Normalizes skin turnover: Prevents excess keratin build-up, reducing comedone formation. Reduces oil production: Sebum levels drop and remain suppressed weeks after treatment, helping control acne-root causes. Fades acne marks and evens tone: Inhibits tyrosinase and melanocyte activity, reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and erythema. Tips to maximize results Start low, go slow: OTC strengths (10%) are ideal entry points. Prescription forms (15–20%) offer faster results but may mildly irritate. Apply consistently: Twice-daily use, morning and night, yields the best results – lower sensitivity users may alternate at first. Layer wisely: Pair with moisturizer and SPF. It works well alongside AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids – just monitor your skin's tolerance. Be patient: Clinical results typically show up at 8–12 weeks, though many report initial improvements in just one month. Expect mild irritation: Some users experience transient burning, itching, or redness, usually minor and manageable. Who should try it? Hormonal or inflammatory acne sufferers can find relief as this solution is effective on cysts, papules, and pustules. It is also gentle enough for those with sensitive or rosacea-prone skin, offering soothing yet powerful benefits. Additionally, anyone battling post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or uneven skin tone will appreciate the dual-action formula that addresses both breakouts and brown or red marks. Furthermore, this product is a safe and non-teratogenic alternative for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, providing peace of mind when many active ingredients are off-limits. Potential drawbacks and precautions Every perk comes with its fair share of cons. Azelaic acid is no exception. It acts more slowly than benzoyl peroxide or topical retinoids. It may cost more, especially prescription formulas, though OTC versions offer high value. Mild irritation is a possibility; start every other day and moisturize generously. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Individual skin responses to azelaic acid may vary – begin with a patch test, introduce it gradually, and monitor for irritation, dryness, or redness. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, have underlying skin conditions, or are using other actives, consult a licensed healthcare provider or dermatologist before use. Discontinue immediately if adverse reactions occur, and seek professional advice. Always follow product instructions, maintain sun protection, and store products as directed. 'No excuse for violence...' US on attacks against Indian students
Daily Mirror
18-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Warning over 'life-threatening' bacteria living on an object in your pocket
The study found that the most common bacteria on car keys was Staphylococcus epidermidis - a bug normally found on the skin but known to cause life-threatening infections in hospital settings Brits are being warned that a commonly used item is harbouring alarmingly high levels of bacteria - and it's probably in your pocket right now. While many of us are fastidious about cleaning our bathrooms or wiping down surfaces, it appears we're neglecting one everyday essential: our car keys, according to MailOnline. New research by Money Supermarket has revealed that car keys contain nearly four times more bacteria than a mobile phone or a computer keyboard – making them one of the grimiest items we carry around. Despite the disturbing findings, a third of drivers have never cleaned their car keys, even though a quarter have had them for over five years. While it's already well known that the steering wheel, gearstick, and dashboard are breeding grounds for germs, experts warn that the keys themselves have been perilously overlooked, reports the Express. "Washing our hands, wiping down surfaces, scrubbing our bathrooms are common cleaning tasks," the experts say. "But what about those small essentials we handle multiple times a day, like our car keys?" "They're with us everywhere, from restaurant tables to gym floors, to the depths of our bags, but they're often overlooked when it comes to cleaning." The team surveyed 2,000 UK motorists about their cleaning habits and car types. They also sent swabs of various items to a lab, including phones, keyboards, and a toilet seat – long seen as one of the dirtiest household objects. The findings were shocking. Mobile phone screens had an average bacteria count of 66, with computer keyboards slightly higher at 68. However, car keys clocked in at a staggering 241 – nearly four times filthier than either device. Unsurprisingly, the toilet seat took the top spot with the highest reading of all at 1,100. Dr Joe Latimer, director of Microbe Consulting Ltd and a microbiologist at the University of Salford, led the analysis and suggested that the bacteria levels on keys might still be underestimated. The most prevalent bacteria identified on car keys was Staphylococcus epidermidis – a bug typically found on the skin but known to cause life-threatening infections in hospital environments, especially post-surgery. Alarmingly, this bacterium is becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics, raising additional health worries. While many of the bacteria were skin-based, researchers also discovered traces of gut bacteria on at least one set of keys. "While unlikely to pose a problem, they can have the potential to carry disease under the right conditions," Dr Latimer cautioned. Experts are now advising drivers to regularly clean their car keys using a soft, damp cloth and mild soap solution. Bleach should be avoided as it can corrode the metal, and keys should never be submerged in water due to potential damage to key fobs and electronic components. Motorists are also shelling out hundreds for key replacements, with one Fiat owner reportedly paying over £900 - typically due to lost or misplaced sets. Shockingly, 15 per cent of drivers confess to not having a spare set of keys at all - leaving them in a pickle if their main set goes missing. Fiat drivers were most likely to only own one set (27 per cent), followed by Land Rover owners (23 per cent) and Toyota drivers (20 per cent). On the flip side, BMW drivers were found to be the most hygiene-conscious, with 57 per cent cleaning their keys weekly or more often. Mercedes-Benz owners followed at 55 per cent, then Land Rover (46 per cent), Audi (43 per cent) and Toyota (41 per cent). The full results of the study can be found on the Money Supermarket website.
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Bacteria Living on Your Skin May Help Protect You From The Sun, Study Says
The bacteria that live on your skin could be playing a role in protecting you from the sun's harmful UV rays, scientists have discovered. In response to solar ultraviolet radiation, our skin cells produce a molecule that, it turns out, is gobbled up by some species of bacteria that live on our skin. In doing so, they eliminate this substance, which is associated with some of the harmful effects that come with repeated sun exposure. "We have known for a long time that UV radiation modulates immune responses directed against environmental antigens on the surface of the skin and, more recently, that the skin microbiome also plays a role in regulating these responses," says lead author VijayKumar Patra, a biotechnologist from the University of Lyon. "What intrigued us was the idea that certain microbes could be actively involved in or even interfere with UV effects." The researchers specifically tested in vitro bacteria, as well as those found on the skin of mice, for their responses to UVB, the kind of radiation that leads to sunburn. They found certain species of bacteria, commonly found on the surface of humans and rodents alike, can break down a molecule that appears to be involved in skin cancer. That molecule, cis-urocanic acid, is produced when another molecule in the outermost layer of skin – trans-urocanic acid – is hit with ultraviolet rays. Previous studies have found cis-urocanic acid suppresses our skin cells' immune systems by binding to serotonin receptors. There are concerns that this, along with the molecule's ability to kick-start oxidative DNA damage, contributes to the development of skin cancer. Somewhat paradoxically, researchers have also found that if cis-urocanic acid is injected into a skin tumor, it can actually have the opposite effect, acidifying the tumor's normally neutral core and killing those cells. Basically, cis-urocanic acid isn't always a villain, but if it builds up around healthy cells, it can be bad news. That's where the bacteria come in. The researchers found common skin bacteria like Staphylococcus epidermidis can actually digest cis-urocanic acid using an enzyme called urocanase. This suggests our skin's microbiome may be regulating the way UV exposure affects our bodies long-term. "This is the first time we have demonstrated a direct metabolic link between UV radiation, a host-derived molecule, and bacterial behavior that affects immune function," says skin immunologist Marc Vocanson, from the International Center for Research in Infectiology in France. "As interest grows in both microbiome research and personalized medicine, understanding these microbe-host interactions could reshape the way we think about sun protection, immune diseases, skin cancer, or even treatments like phototherapy." When UVB sunscreens were first invented in 1928, by Australian chemist Milton Blake, very little was known about the microbiome, a term which was only coined in 2001. These bacteria obviously can't handle the job of sun protection all on their own – which is why people still get skin cancer when they ignore the sun safety measures recommended by health experts – but now that we know what these microbes are doing, we might be able to find ways to use this to improve skincare. "These findings open the door to microbiome-aware sun protection, where we not only protect the skin from UV radiation, but also consider how resident microbes can alter the immune landscape after exposure," says photodermatologist Peter Wolf, from the Medical University of Graz, Austria. He thinks treatments applied directly to the skin may one day be used to enhance or minimize the cis-urocanic acid metabolisms of these microbes to achieve desired outcomes in clinical treatment. This could be useful, for instance, during phototherapy, in which ultraviolet light is used to treat conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis and vitamin B deficiency. Removing the bacteria prior to these treatments could enhance their effects. In the other direction, products that encourage the growth of S. epidermidis, or contain the urocanase enzymes, could potentially help protect the skin's immune system, which may reduce the chances of skin cancer. Of course, because these findings are based on test-tube experiments and the skin and microbiomes of mice, all these human applications are still speculative. Far more research is needed before any burgeoning 'urocanase-enriched sunscreen' products can earn the scientific seal of approval. This research was published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. Do Eyes Really See The World Upside Down? Here's The Science. Your Heart Begins to Suffer After Just 3 Nights of Bad Sleep Experimental Therapy Suppresses Immune Reaction to Gluten in Mice
See - Sada Elbalad
16-05-2025
- Health
- See - Sada Elbalad
The Skin Microbiome: The Invisible Guardian of Skin
Dr. Magdy Badran The skin is not just a protective barrier — it's a dynamic ecosystem and the body's first line of defense against harmful invaders. Living on its surface is a vast, invisible community of microorganisms known as skin microbiome. Far from being harmful, most skin microbes work with our bodies to protect, repair, and regulate. An imbalance in microbiome (dysbiosis) has been linked to various skin disorders. As science continues to uncover the importance of this microbial world, skincare is evolving toward nurturing the microbiome rather than sterilizing it. What Is the Skin Microbiome? The skin microbiome refers to the trillions of microorganisms that naturally inhabit the human skin. These microbes vary depending on the part of the body, the individual, age, sex, lifestyle, environment, and even climate. Some microbes reside in oily regions like the face and back, while others prefer dry or moist areas such as the elbows or armpits. Key Players in the Skin Microbiome Beneficial bacteria – Such as Staphylococcus epidermidis and Cutibacterium acnes, which help protect against harmful bacteria and produce antimicrobial substances. Fungi – Primarily from the Malassezia genus, which feed on skin oils and help maintain balance. Viruses and bacteriophages – Infect bacteria and may help regulate bacterial populations. Microscopic mites – Like Demodex, which live in hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Functions of the Skin Microbiome The skin microbiome plays a vital role in maintaining the health and integrity of the skin. It acts as a protective shield by competing with harmful microbes for space and nutrients, thereby preventing infections. Beneficial bacteria on the skin produce antimicrobial substances that deter pathogens. The microbiome also helps regulate the immune system, teaching it to tolerate harmless organisms and respond appropriately to threats. It contributes to maintaining the skin's acidic pH, which is crucial for barrier function. Some microbes promote wound healing by stimulating tissue repair. The microbiome supports hydration by preserving the skin's natural oils. It also plays a role in controlling inflammation and preventing allergic reactions. A balanced microbiome keeps the skin calm and resilient. Overall, it is essential for both physical protection and immune harmony. Factors Affecting Skin Microbiome Health The health the skin microbiome is influenced by several lifestyle and environmental factors. Overuse of antiseptics and harsh soaps can strip away beneficial microbes, weakening the skin's natural defenses. Similarly, both topical and oral antibiotics disrupt microbial diversity, potentially leading to imbalances and overgrowth of harmful organisms. Diet also plays a crucial role—diets high in sugar and unhealthy fats promote inflammation, which negatively impacts the microbiome. Chronic stress alters hormone levels and immune responses, indirectly disturbing microbial stability. Environmental exposures, such as air pollution, ultraviolet radiation, and extreme weather, further affect the skin's microbial composition. Inadequate hygiene or excessive cleanliness can also disturb microbial equilibrium. Skin care products with alcohols and preservatives may be too harsh for the microbiome. Even clothing materials and personal habits, like smoking, can influence microbial health. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle is essential to support a healthy and resilient skin microbiome. Acne and the Skin Microbiome Acne is a common skin condition often influenced by imbalances in the skin microbiome. While Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) naturally resides in healthy skin, certain strains can become overactive, triggering inflammation and clogged pores. These harmful strains produce enzymes and inflammatory substances that damage skin tissue and attract immune responses. A disrupted microbiome—often due to harsh skincare products, antibiotics, or hormonal changes—can reduce microbial diversity and promote acne flare-ups. Beneficial microbes that usually keep C. acnes in check may decline, allowing the harmful strains to dominate. Restoring microbial balance through gentle skincare and targeted probiotics is a promising approach. Supporting the skin microbiome may reduce acne severity and improve overall skin health. Eczema and the Skin Microbiome Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is strongly linked to imbalances in the skin microbiome. People with eczema often have reduced microbial diversity and an overgrowth of Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium that can worsen inflammation and skin barrier damage. This imbalance weakens the skin's defense, making it more vulnerable to irritants and allergens. The disrupted microbiome also impairs the immune system's ability to regulate inflammation properly. Maintaining or restoring a healthy microbial balance through gentle skincare and probiotic treatments can help reduce eczema flare-ups. Psoriasis and the Skin Microbiome Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with changes in the skin microbiome. Research shows that people with psoriasis often have altered microbial communities, including decreased diversity and an imbalance between beneficial and harmful bacteria. Certain bacteria may trigger or worsen inflammation by interacting with the immune system, contributing to the characteristic redness and scaling. This microbial imbalance can disrupt the skin barrier, making symptoms more severe. Restoring a healthy microbiome through targeted therapies and gentle skincare may help reduce inflammation and support skin healing. Understanding the skin microbiome's role in psoriasis opens new avenues for treatment. Supporting microbial balance is increasingly seen as part of comprehensive psoriasis care. Fungal Infections and the Skin Microbiome Fungal infections occur when there is an overgrowth of certain fungi on the skin, often due to an imbalance in the skin microbiome. The genus Malassezia is a common resident fungus that usually coexists peacefully but can proliferate excessively under certain conditions, causing issues like dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Factors such as humidity, weakened immunity, or disruption of bacterial communities can trigger fungal overgrowth. This imbalance disturbs the skin's natural defense, leading to irritation, inflammation, and infection. Maintaining a balanced microbiome through proper hygiene and avoiding harsh antimicrobials helps prevent fungal infections. Sleep and the Skin Microbiome Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy skin microbiome. During deep sleep, the body undergoes repair processes that help restore the skin barrier and balance microbial communities. Poor or insufficient sleep can disrupt immune function, leading to inflammation and an imbalance in skin microbes. This imbalance may increase the risk of skin conditions like acne, eczema, and dryness. Adequate sleep supports the production of antimicrobial peptides, which protect against harmful bacteria. Moreover, good sleep helps regulate stress hormones that otherwise negatively impact the skin microbiome. Prioritizing quality sleep is essential for maintaining skin health and microbial harmony. Water and the Skin Microbiome Water quality and usage significantly affect the skin microbiome. Chlorinated or hard water can disrupt the delicate balance of skin microbes by altering pH levels and stripping natural oils, which serve as nutrients for beneficial bacteria. Overexposure to water—especially hot showers—can damage the skin barrier, leading to dryness and microbial imbalance. Conversely, staying well-hydrated from within supports healthy skin by maintaining elasticity and optimal conditions for microbial life. Polluted or contaminated water may introduce harmful microbes that compete with or kill off protective bacteria. Using filtered or lukewarm water and limiting prolonged exposure helps protect the microbiome. Balanced water practices are key to maintaining skin health and microbial harmony. Tips for a Healthy Skin Microbiome Maintaining a healthy skin microbiome involves gentle and mindful care. Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers to avoid stripping beneficial microbes. Avoid over-washing, as excessive cleansing can disrupt microbial balance. Incorporate moisturizers that support skin barrier function and provide nutrients for microbes. Limit the use of harsh antiseptics and antibiotics unless medically necessary. Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure and pollution, which can damage microbial communities. Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids to support skin health from within. Manage stress through relaxation techniques, as stress negatively affects the microbiome. Lastly, consider using skincare products formulated to nurture beneficial microbes, promoting resilience and skin vitality. read more Analysis- Turkey Has 0 Regional Allies... Why? Analysis: Russia, Turkey... Libya in Return For Syria? Analysis: Who Will Gain Trump's Peace Plan Fruits? Analysis: Will Turkey's Erdogan Resort to Snap Election? Analysis: What Are Turkey's Aspirations in Iraq? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Mercenaries In Libya... Who Should Be Blamed? Opinion & Analysis Analysis- How 'Libya Nightmare' Takes Erdogan to Algiers Opinion & Analysis Analysis: What Happens After Brexit? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Strategic Significance of Libya's Sirte, Jufra! 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India Today
06-05-2025
- Health
- India Today
The real story behind teenage pimples and how it can change future acne treatment
Ever wondered why acne strikes in your teenage years and lingers for some, while others breeze through with clear skin?The answer may lie not just in hormones, but in the invisible world of bacteria living on your face.A new study by researchers at MIT, published in Cell Host & Microbe, has uncovered fascinating insights into how bacteria on our facial skin evolve, especially during the teenage years. And their findings could reshape how we think about, and treat, THE SKIN MICROBIOME MYSTERYOur skin, especially on the face, is home to a bustling community of them, two bacteria dominate: Cutibacterium acnes (previously known as Propionibacterium acnes) and Staphylococcus epidermidis. For years, scientists knew these bacteria played a role in skin conditions like acne and eczema, but exactly how and when they settle in remained new research reveals that during the early teenage years, a time when oil production in the skin skyrockets, new strains of C. acnes begin to arrive and multiply rapidly. These strains then tend to stay put for years, forming a stable, personalised bacterial signature on each person's face. Our skin, especially on the face, is home to a bustling community of microbes. () advertisementThat stability, it turns out, is a double-edged sword."If we had a strain that we knew could prevent acne, these results would suggest we should apply it early, during the transition to adulthood, so that it has a better chance to settle in,' explained Dr. Tami Lieberman, senior author of the study and associate professor at TIMING MATTERSThe study tracked the skin microbiomes of 30 children and 27 parents. By collecting samples over time and sequencing individual bacterial cells, the researchers discovered that teenagers acquire many new C. acnes once a person reaches adulthood, the microbiome becomes mostly fixed, making it harder for new strains, even helpful probiotic ones, to take suggests a crucial takeaway: the early teenage years may be the ideal window to introduce acne-preventing probiotic treatments, when the face is still open to "welcoming" new strains."It's like planting seeds. The soil is more fertile during adolescence," said Lieberman. Once a person reaches adulthood, the microbiome becomes mostly fixed, making it harder for new strains, even helpful probiotic ones, to take hold. () The study also found that Staphylococcus epidermidis, the other major skin resident, behaves quite differently. Its strains tend to come and go, living for less than two years on average. Interestingly, even people living in the same house don't share many of the same this happens isn't fully understood. It may be due to individual skin care routines, genetics, or the bacteria themselves blocking new ones from moving IT MEANS FOR THE FUTURE OF ACNE TREATMENTCurrent acne treatments often rely on antibiotics or retinoids, which can irritate the skin and have limited long-term benefits. But what if we could treat acne by tweaking the skin microbiome during its most vulnerable and flexible phase, adolescence?While this study doesn't offer a cure for acne yet, it points to a new direction: understanding when and how to introduce "good" bacteria to support skin health. The idea isn't far-fetched. Several companies are already exploring topical probiotics for acne. This study offers a clue: apply them early, before the skin's bacterial population teenagers struggling with acne, it's a reminder that their skin is undergoing a major transformation, one that could be better supported with well-timed, personalised treatments in the near research also sheds light on why some people get acne and others don't, even if they live together and use the same products. The answer may lie in what strain of C. acnes they carry and how their immune system responds to next step for the MIT team is to understand whether the timing of these bacterial takeovers affects long-term skin health—and how to use that information to design better treatments."We're each walking around with a unique skin microbiome, shaped by early events in our lives. If we can understand that better, we may be able to guide it toward healthier outcomes," said Reel
