Supporting the gut-skin axis: Prebiotic validation
Pro and prebiotics are of increasing interest for skin health. Simply speaking, probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits, whilst prebiotics are fuel for these microorganisms. Prebiotics bypass digestion in the upper gut, before arriving in the colon where they serve as food for gut bacteria - a process known as fermentation. Fermentation produces beneficial short-chain fatty acids, compounds that are vital for fuelling cells lining the colon and strengthening the gut barrier.
Brands looking to add an ingestible 'beauty-from-within' product to their range - or reinvigorate an existing offering - will be interested to learn that Maritech® Undaria pinnatifida extract has recently been scientifically validated as a prebiotic - further strengthening its position as a marine microbiome modulator.
Nutritional products containing prebiotics have been shown to strengthen the gut-skin axis. An unbalanced gut microbiome can promote inflammation and weaken immune responses. Preclinical evidence suggests the short-chain fatty acid butyrate may support the gut–skin axis by strengthening epithelial barrier function, modulating immune responses, and reducing inflammatory signalling. As global research progresses, the association between the composition and functionality of the gut microbiome and various skin disorders, particularly chronic inflammatory conditions such as atopic dermatitis, acne and psoriasis, is likely to become clearer.
"As consumers become increasingly aware of the gut-skin axis, adding an ingestible product to an existing skincare range makes sense for many brands," said Marinova's Sales & Partnerships Director, Mr Rod Shelley. "Maritech® Undaria pinnatifida extract offers a range of unique multifunctional gut health benefits. Its recent prebiotic validation - including its ability to support production of the short-chain fatty acid butyrate - further strengthens its standing as a natural, certified organic, sustainably sourced ingredient with proven efficacy."
Further reading: Xiao 2023; Wimmer 2025; Jimenez-Sanchez 2025.