Across 5 studies, all reported beneficial effects on skin barrier function, with predominantly small effect sizes (one moderate). The only statistically significant finding came from a 2025 meta-analysis (trans-epidermal water loss pSMD = -0.50, p = 6.39 × 10⁻⁴). Most studies were narrative reviews; no consistent dose or duration data were reported, and populations ranged from healthy adults to psoriasis patients.
Caveats: Available evidence is overwhelmingly positive — clinical literature in this area is subject to publication bias (null-result studies are less likely to be published or indexed). Many of the included studies did not reach statistical significance — effect may be smaller than the predominant direction suggests. Additionally, most supporting papers are narrative reviews rather than original controlled trials, limiting the certainty of the findings. Dose, form, and duration data are absent from the available studies.
polyphenols strengthen barrier integrity (trans-epidermal water loss pSMD = - 0.50 [- 0.79, - 0.22], p = 6.39 × 10-4)
consuming Lactobacillus brevis SBC8803 was associated with improved skin barrier function in healthy adult humans
studies have substantiated their efficacy in enhancing hydration, reducing wrinkles, and fortifying barrier integrity
consuming Lactobacillus brevis SBC8803
There is preliminary evidence that certain probiotics given orally or topically could be used as a gentle intervention in diaper dermatitis.
Administration of HK-SBC8803 in the first three experiments caused marked inhibition of CASNA and significant elevation of cutaneous blood flow under urethane anaesthesia as well as significant decrease in TEWL on the dorsal skin of conscious hairless rats.