Lifestyle & Wellness
Blemishes beware: probiotics can help clear problem skin from the inside out. The “good” bacteria in your gut can reduce inflammation throughout the body, including the skin. Dr. Frank Lipman, a well-known holistic doctor who has worked with celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, says clear skin starts with healthy gut flora (The Cut).
Kefir, a traditional 2,000-year-old drink from Eastern Europe, contains at least ten strains of bacterial cultures (Well+Good). This fermented beverage is becoming more common in stores, but many people prefer making it at home.
Here’s a simple kefir recipe — a great source of probiotics that may help with skin breakouts.
Kefir Recipe
What you need
– 2 tablespoons live kefir grains*
– 2 cups organic milk
*Kefir grains are live milk cultures. You can buy dried versions online from stores like Cultures For Health or get live grains from someone already making kefir. Kefir grains can’t be manufactured.
Steps
1. Put the kefir grains into a glass container and pour in the milk.
2. Cover the container loosely with cheesecloth or a paper towel so the mixture can breathe.
3. Leave it at room temperature for about 24 hours, until it’s slightly thickened.
4. Strain out the kefir — it’s ready to drink and can be refrigerated.
5. Save the strained kefir grains to make your next batch.
Drinking bacteria-rich kefir pairs well with topical treatments like our Clear Skin Probiotic products, which work to reduce the look of acne. Used alongside our Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser, Clear Skin Probiotic Moisturizer, Clear Skin Probiotic Masque, and Clear Skin Willow Bark Booster-Serum, the good cultures in kefir can help calm and soothe troubled skin.
Note: Making kefir is generally safe, but avoid culturing on very hot days when milk can spoil faster than the bacteria can ferment it. Always consult a qualified medical doctor before making major changes to your diet.