The connection between gut microbiome and skin health. How ‘good’ bacteria affect melanoma risk

Gut microbiome and skin health are closely related. An imbalance of beneficial bacteria in the gut can worsen conditions such as acne and eczema, and studies have shown that it can even affect the risk of melanoma. Learn more about the complex relationship between the gut and the skin.

There are approximately 100 trillion bacteria and other micro-organisms in the intestinal tract that make up what is known as the gut microbiome. Its role is not limited to supporting bones. The “good” bacteria in the gut keep the immune system and brain working properly. At the same time, the gut microbiome also affects the health of the skin.

Between the gut and the skin there is a two-way communication called the gut-skin axis. Although the study of this complex relationship is still in its infancy, there is growing evidence that gut health plays a vital role in maintaining skin health and vice versa.

Diseases caused or aggravated by dysbiosis

circlecountries in recent years has identified a close link between the gut microbiome and skin health. An imbalance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, known as dysbiosis, has been associated with many common dermatological diseases. These include:

• acne vulgaris;
• atopic dermatitis;
• psoriasis;
• hidradenitis suppurativa;
• rosacea (cuperosis);
• seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff;
• alopecia areata.

Several mechanisms have been identified through which gut microbiome imbalance affects skin health:

Systemic inflammation

When the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut is disturbed, pathogenic bacteria produce toxins and pro-inflammatory metabolites that enter the circulation and cause systemic inflammation. It affects the whole body, including the skin.

At the same time, the “good” bacteria in the gut produce short-chain fatty acids, such as butyrate, which have anti-inflammatory effects. Dysbiosis reduces the production of these beneficial metabolites and thus increases inflammation.

Chronic inflammation is a trigger for many skin conditions, the most common being acne, psoriasis, eczema and atopic dermatitis.

Immune system imbalance

The gut microbiome it has an essential role in regulating the immune system. Dysbiosis can cause the immune response to become overactive or underactive. A complex immune response can contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases. Vitiligo and psoriasis are two autoimmune diseases associated with an overactive immune response.

On the other hand, when the immune response is insufficient, the skin can be more vulnerable to infections such as herpes, candidiasis and staph infections.

Leaky gut syndrome

Dysbiosis can damage the integrity of the gut barrier, a layer of cells lining the gut that plays an important role in absorbing nutrients and preventing the passage of harmful substances from the split into the body.

If it becomes leaky, the gut allows pathogenic bacteria and toxins to enter the bloodstream. Leaky gut syndrome can cause skin inflammation and is associated with conditions such as rosacea, eczema and chronic urticaria.

Gut microbiome may influence melanoma risk

Gut health can affect your risk of developing skin cancer, according to a 2023 study published in JAMA Dermatology. Its authors, a team of researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, observed that participants with melanoma had a different gut microbiome structure than the control group. Melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer, which spreads quickly to other parts of the body.

The study included 228 participants, 179 of whom were diagnosed with melanoma at various stages, which allowed the researchers to monitor the progression of the disease and associated changes in gut microbiome. They had significantly more beneficial bacteria compared to the 49 participants without melanoma in the control group.

People with melanoma had a higher concentration of Fusobacterium bacteria compared to the control group. This type of bacteria is known to cause infections. Also, participants with early-stage melanoma had a more diverse microbiome than those with advanced stages.

The study established a correlation, without confirming a causal relationship. Maintaining gut health does not necessarily prevent skin cancer, but researchers reiterate the importance of maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria.

Previous research has identified a correlation between reduced microbial diversity and several chronic conditions, including type 2 diabetes and obesity.

The information presented in this article is not a substitute for medical advice. Ask your doctor for advice on diagnosis and treatment.