Rebalance the skin microbiota by wearing probiotic clothes? It is now almost possible! Currently, it is still in the concept state.

An idea from science

The science shows that the cutaneous microbiota serves as a barrier against certain microorganisms, allergens and other toxins by limiting the infectious and pathological impact.

Acne, eczema, rosacea, psoriasis… Skin conditions potentially caused or exacerbated by an imbalance between good and bad bacteria present on our skin. The hypothesis: the hygienist theory. In other words, inadvertent washing and disinfection causing dysbiosis. In addition, the cosmetic composition of used products and the wearing of certain clothes can also weaken this balance. Based on these findings, researcher and designer Rosie Broadhead looked at the issue by creating the “Skin II” project.

Skin II, the progress of an ambitious project

The aim of this project is to develop a concept of clothes with probiotics to restore microbial skin balance. The project initiator collaborates with Dr. Callewaert, microbiologist, in order to successfully encapsulate the probiotics and adhere them to the fabric in contact with skin. Beneficial bacteria will take precedence over other microbes when they are released from the fabric with body moisture – when the person sweats.

According to Rosie Broadhead, this garment that looks like a tight-fitting combination, would be able:

  • To regenerate the cells,
  • To reduce body odor,
  • And to strengthen skin immunity.

Probiotic bacteria have been strategically located to produce maximum effect: in the armpits, arms, chest, back and on belly sides. This has been verified by tests conducted by Dr. Callewaert.

Some limitations to the project?

Several questions arise: What about washing? Indeed, if bacteria are released due to moisture, how much would remain in the combination after washing? What is the actual duration of the product? The Forbes newspaper asked Rosie Broadhead: she explains that “after a 30 degree wash the samples still had a very good bacteria count. Also, the microencapsulation process means that with the movement of the body and abrasion from the washing machine the bacteria can be released over time.” Rosie Broadhead also emphasizes an important ecological aspect: the product design makes it possible to wash clothes less often, thus reducing the washing machine use.

It remains to be seen if the combination is able:

  • to be worn several times without washing with no smell of persistent perspiration,
  • to resist to several passes in the washing machine, 
  • and to release the probiotics in the long term…

No marketing yet planned so far, as the project is still at the concept stage. But, this project reveals a field of possibilities more and more extensive for probiotics.

Would you be ready to wear this type of clothes to rebalance your skin microbiota?

LC

Reference

Skin II