Knowledge base · Personal health
The gut-skin axis
A growing body of scientific research shows that the gut microbiome is important not only for the gut itself, but may also be associated with skin health.[1][2] Gut and skin appear to communicate through several biological systems: the immune system, the gut barrier, inflammatory processes, microbial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, and hormonal and metabolic signals.[3][7] This field is developing rapidly; not all mechanisms are yet fully understood, and most studies describe associations rather than a causal link.[4]
How do gut and skin communicate?
Roughly 70% of the immune system is located in and around the gut. There, immune cells are in daily contact with dietary components and with the micro-organisms that make up the gut ecosystem.[10]
- Gut bacteria play a role in the development and regulation of immune responses.[10]
- Bacteria produce substances, including short-chain fatty acids, that can influence inflammatory processes elsewhere in the body via the bloodstream.[1][3]
- Changes in the gut barrier (the so-called intestinal barrier) may contribute to systemic inflammation.[2][8]
- Hormonal and metabolic signals form an additional route between gut and skin.[7]
Which skin conditions are being studied?
Scientific research currently focuses mainly on possible relationships between the gut microbiome and a number of chronic skin conditions. Several studies describe differences in gut microbiome composition in people with these conditions; a causal link has not yet been demonstrated.[2][4][6]
- Atopic dermatitis: there are indications that gut microbiome composition differs from control groups.[8]
- Psoriasis: several review articles describe associations with the gut microbiome and with inflammatory activity.[5]
- Acne vulgaris: research suggests an association with metabolic and microbial factors.[9]
- Rosacea: there are indications of an association with gastrointestinal conditions, although the research is limited.[1]
- Chronic urticaria: a few studies describe differences in the gut microbiome, with mixed findings.[10]
What can a gut microbiome analysis add?
A gut microbiome analysis provides insight into features of your personal gut ecosystem: which groups of micro-organisms are present, and how diverse and balanced the whole appears.[3]
That information can serve as a starting point for personalised nutrition advice, lifestyle guidance and support focused on gut health. Results are always assessed together with your medical history, symptom pattern and previous investigations.[6]
An analysis does not provide a diagnosis for skin conditions and does not predict their course. We make no claims about improvement or resolution of skin complaints.
Medical nuance
A gut microbiome analysis is not a dermatological examination and does not diagnose skin conditions. Assessment by your GP or dermatologist remains the first step for skin complaints.
Further reading: back to the knowledge base, gut microbiome test, Personal programme — 1 year or an introductory consultation with the doctor.
Science gives us ever more data. But its meaning starts with the person.
A doctor looks not only at what is measurable, but also listens to what someone experiences.
Scientific references
The information on this page is based on recent scientific literature. Below is a selection of key review articles on the gut-skin axis. These publications form an important basis for current knowledge about the relationship between the gut microbiome, the immune system and the skin.
Reference 1
Gut–Skin Axis: Current Knowledge of the Interrelationship between Microbial Dysbiosis and Skin Conditions
Microorganisms · 2021 · Review
Reference 2
The Gut Microbiome: Human Health and Inflammatory Skin Diseases
Annals of Dermatology · 2020 · Review
Reference 3
The Skin Microbiome and the Gut–Skin Axis
Clinics in Dermatology · 2021 · Review
Reference 4
The Role of Gut Microbiome in Inflammatory Skin Disorders
Skin Pharmacology and Physiology · 2022 · Systematic review
Reference 5
Gut Microbiome in Psoriasis: An Updated Review
Pathogens · 2020 · Review
Reference 6
Skin Microbiota in Health and Disease: From Sequencing to Biology
Journal of Dermatological Science · 2020 · Review
Reference 7
The Gut Microbiome–Skin Axis
The Skin Microbiome Handbook · 2020 · Review
Reference 8
Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis in Atopic Dermatitis
Compiled review literature · 2024 · Review
Reference 9
Gut Microbiota and Acne Vulgaris
Compiled review literature · 2024 · Review
Reference 10
Gut Microbiota, Immune Regulation and Skin Disease
Compiled review literature · 2024 · Review
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