
Exploring the skin-gut microbiome connection and its role in psoriasis management.
Exploring the skin-gut microbiome connection and its role in psoriasis management.
Exploring the skin-gut microbiome connection and its role in psoriasis management.
The Skin and Gut Microbiomes: Their Interplay and Influence on Psoriasis
Psoriasis, a common skin disorder, leads to red, flaky, crusty patches of skin covered with silvery scales. Though the underlying cause of psoriasis is complex and involves genetic and environmental factors, the microbiota residing within and on us, specifically in our gut and skin, play a considerable role.
A Deeper Look into the Skin Microbiome
The skin microbiome represents a vibrant community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that inhabit our skin's surface. This microscopic ecosystem has a crucial function in shielding us from pathogens, maintaining the skin's pH balance, and supporting immunity. The skin microbiome in individuals with psoriasis, however, often deviates from those without the condition, potentially contributing to the inflammation and flakiness characteristic of this disease.
The Gut Microbiome and Its Influence on Skin Health
Our skin is home to a diverse range of microbes, and similarly, our gut also houses a complex microbial environment known as the gut microbiome. These microorganisms have a fundamental role in digestion, immunity, and even our mental health.
The "gut-skin axis," a term describing the intricate relationship between the gut and skin microbiomes, has gained attention in recent years. An imbalance in the gut microbiome, characterised by a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in potentially harmful ones, may contribute to psoriasis.
Studies indicate that individuals with psoriasis often have a different gut microbiome composition than those without the condition. Specifically, they tend to have lower levels of beneficial bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus, and higher levels of potentially harmful ones. This imbalance, known as dysbiosis, may encourage inflammation, thereby exacerbating psoriasis symptoms.
The Skin and Gut Microbiomes: Their Interplay and Influence on Psoriasis
Psoriasis, a common skin disorder, leads to red, flaky, crusty patches of skin covered with silvery scales. Though the underlying cause of psoriasis is complex and involves genetic and environmental factors, the microbiota residing within and on us, specifically in our gut and skin, play a considerable role.
A Deeper Look into the Skin Microbiome
The skin microbiome represents a vibrant community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that inhabit our skin's surface. This microscopic ecosystem has a crucial function in shielding us from pathogens, maintaining the skin's pH balance, and supporting immunity. The skin microbiome in individuals with psoriasis, however, often deviates from those without the condition, potentially contributing to the inflammation and flakiness characteristic of this disease.
The Gut Microbiome and Its Influence on Skin Health
Our skin is home to a diverse range of microbes, and similarly, our gut also houses a complex microbial environment known as the gut microbiome. These microorganisms have a fundamental role in digestion, immunity, and even our mental health.
The "gut-skin axis," a term describing the intricate relationship between the gut and skin microbiomes, has gained attention in recent years. An imbalance in the gut microbiome, characterised by a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in potentially harmful ones, may contribute to psoriasis.
Studies indicate that individuals with psoriasis often have a different gut microbiome composition than those without the condition. Specifically, they tend to have lower levels of beneficial bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus, and higher levels of potentially harmful ones. This imbalance, known as dysbiosis, may encourage inflammation, thereby exacerbating psoriasis symptoms.
The Skin and Gut Microbiomes: Their Interplay and Influence on Psoriasis
Psoriasis, a common skin disorder, leads to red, flaky, crusty patches of skin covered with silvery scales. Though the underlying cause of psoriasis is complex and involves genetic and environmental factors, the microbiota residing within and on us, specifically in our gut and skin, play a considerable role.
A Deeper Look into the Skin Microbiome
The skin microbiome represents a vibrant community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that inhabit our skin's surface. This microscopic ecosystem has a crucial function in shielding us from pathogens, maintaining the skin's pH balance, and supporting immunity. The skin microbiome in individuals with psoriasis, however, often deviates from those without the condition, potentially contributing to the inflammation and flakiness characteristic of this disease.
The Gut Microbiome and Its Influence on Skin Health
Our skin is home to a diverse range of microbes, and similarly, our gut also houses a complex microbial environment known as the gut microbiome. These microorganisms have a fundamental role in digestion, immunity, and even our mental health.
The "gut-skin axis," a term describing the intricate relationship between the gut and skin microbiomes, has gained attention in recent years. An imbalance in the gut microbiome, characterised by a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in potentially harmful ones, may contribute to psoriasis.
Studies indicate that individuals with psoriasis often have a different gut microbiome composition than those without the condition. Specifically, they tend to have lower levels of beneficial bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus, and higher levels of potentially harmful ones. This imbalance, known as dysbiosis, may encourage inflammation, thereby exacerbating psoriasis symptoms.
Leveraging Probiotics in Psoriasis Management
Probiotics, live beneficial bacteria that can help restore a healthy gut microbiome, have shown promise in managing psoriasis symptoms. By augmenting the population of good bacteria in the gut, probiotics can potentially rebalance the gut microbiome, thereby influencing the gut-skin axis and improving psoriasis.
Research has demonstrated that specific strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium lactis, can be beneficial for individuals with psoriasis.
While supplements provide a convenient method to incorporate probiotics into your regimen, they are also naturally present in various fermented foods. Including these in your diet can be an effective way to support your gut microbiome.
Yoghurt: Often the first food that comes to mind when we think of probiotics, make sure to choose yoghurts that contain live cultures and avoid those with high sugar content.
Kefir: A fermented milk drink, kefir is rich in various probiotic strains and can be an excellent addition to your diet.
Sauerkraut: Made from fermented cabbage, sauerkraut is not only a good source of probiotics but also rich in fibre and vitamins.
Kimchi: This traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, predominantly cabbage, is full of beneficial bacteria and also adds a spicy kick to meals.
Miso: A Japanese staple, miso paste, made from fermented soybeans, barley, or rice, can be used to prepare soups and sauces.
Tempeh: Another product of fermented soybeans, tempeh is a meat substitute loved by vegetarians and vegans alike, and a good probiotic source.
Kombucha: This fermented tea is a trendy beverage full of probiotics.
Improving the Skin Microbiome: Skincare Products and Beyond
Today, several skincare products incorporate probiotics, prebiotics (food for beneficial microbes), or postbiotics (beneficial compounds produced by microbes) with the aim to support and balance the skin microbiome. Here are some examples:
Aveeno Dermexa Daily Emollient Cream: One of our partner brands that includes technology to address the dryness and itchiness associated with psoriasis.
Mother Dirt AO+ Mist: This product contains live probiotics to restore the balance of the skin's microbiome.
Gallinée Probiotic Hydrating Face Cream: Incorporates a patented complex of prebiotics, probiotics, and post-biotics to support the skin's good bacteria.
Holistic Lifestyle Changes for Psoriasis Management
In addition to probiotics and skincare routines, other lifestyle modifications also contribute to improving both gut and skin health. These include maintaining a diet rich in fibre, minimising processed food consumption, regularly exercising, and managing stress effectively.
Remember, it's essential to discuss with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your skincare routine, diet, or lifestyle, particularly when managing psoriasis.
With an increasing understanding of the interconnectedness of the skin and gut microbiomes, learning to nurture these microbial communities can be a vital tool in managing psoriasis and promoting overall skin health.
Leveraging Probiotics in Psoriasis Management
Probiotics, live beneficial bacteria that can help restore a healthy gut microbiome, have shown promise in managing psoriasis symptoms. By augmenting the population of good bacteria in the gut, probiotics can potentially rebalance the gut microbiome, thereby influencing the gut-skin axis and improving psoriasis.
Research has demonstrated that specific strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium lactis, can be beneficial for individuals with psoriasis.
While supplements provide a convenient method to incorporate probiotics into your regimen, they are also naturally present in various fermented foods. Including these in your diet can be an effective way to support your gut microbiome.
Yoghurt: Often the first food that comes to mind when we think of probiotics, make sure to choose yoghurts that contain live cultures and avoid those with high sugar content.
Kefir: A fermented milk drink, kefir is rich in various probiotic strains and can be an excellent addition to your diet.
Sauerkraut: Made from fermented cabbage, sauerkraut is not only a good source of probiotics but also rich in fibre and vitamins.
Kimchi: This traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, predominantly cabbage, is full of beneficial bacteria and also adds a spicy kick to meals.
Miso: A Japanese staple, miso paste, made from fermented soybeans, barley, or rice, can be used to prepare soups and sauces.
Tempeh: Another product of fermented soybeans, tempeh is a meat substitute loved by vegetarians and vegans alike, and a good probiotic source.
Kombucha: This fermented tea is a trendy beverage full of probiotics.
Improving the Skin Microbiome: Skincare Products and Beyond
Today, several skincare products incorporate probiotics, prebiotics (food for beneficial microbes), or postbiotics (beneficial compounds produced by microbes) with the aim to support and balance the skin microbiome. Here are some examples:
Aveeno Dermexa Daily Emollient Cream: One of our partner brands that includes technology to address the dryness and itchiness associated with psoriasis.
Mother Dirt AO+ Mist: This product contains live probiotics to restore the balance of the skin's microbiome.
Gallinée Probiotic Hydrating Face Cream: Incorporates a patented complex of prebiotics, probiotics, and post-biotics to support the skin's good bacteria.
Holistic Lifestyle Changes for Psoriasis Management
In addition to probiotics and skincare routines, other lifestyle modifications also contribute to improving both gut and skin health. These include maintaining a diet rich in fibre, minimising processed food consumption, regularly exercising, and managing stress effectively.
Remember, it's essential to discuss with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your skincare routine, diet, or lifestyle, particularly when managing psoriasis.
With an increasing understanding of the interconnectedness of the skin and gut microbiomes, learning to nurture these microbial communities can be a vital tool in managing psoriasis and promoting overall skin health.
Leveraging Probiotics in Psoriasis Management
Probiotics, live beneficial bacteria that can help restore a healthy gut microbiome, have shown promise in managing psoriasis symptoms. By augmenting the population of good bacteria in the gut, probiotics can potentially rebalance the gut microbiome, thereby influencing the gut-skin axis and improving psoriasis.
Research has demonstrated that specific strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium lactis, can be beneficial for individuals with psoriasis.
While supplements provide a convenient method to incorporate probiotics into your regimen, they are also naturally present in various fermented foods. Including these in your diet can be an effective way to support your gut microbiome.
Yoghurt: Often the first food that comes to mind when we think of probiotics, make sure to choose yoghurts that contain live cultures and avoid those with high sugar content.
Kefir: A fermented milk drink, kefir is rich in various probiotic strains and can be an excellent addition to your diet.
Sauerkraut: Made from fermented cabbage, sauerkraut is not only a good source of probiotics but also rich in fibre and vitamins.
Kimchi: This traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, predominantly cabbage, is full of beneficial bacteria and also adds a spicy kick to meals.
Miso: A Japanese staple, miso paste, made from fermented soybeans, barley, or rice, can be used to prepare soups and sauces.
Tempeh: Another product of fermented soybeans, tempeh is a meat substitute loved by vegetarians and vegans alike, and a good probiotic source.
Kombucha: This fermented tea is a trendy beverage full of probiotics.
Improving the Skin Microbiome: Skincare Products and Beyond
Today, several skincare products incorporate probiotics, prebiotics (food for beneficial microbes), or postbiotics (beneficial compounds produced by microbes) with the aim to support and balance the skin microbiome. Here are some examples:
Aveeno Dermexa Daily Emollient Cream: One of our partner brands that includes technology to address the dryness and itchiness associated with psoriasis.
Mother Dirt AO+ Mist: This product contains live probiotics to restore the balance of the skin's microbiome.
Gallinée Probiotic Hydrating Face Cream: Incorporates a patented complex of prebiotics, probiotics, and post-biotics to support the skin's good bacteria.
Holistic Lifestyle Changes for Psoriasis Management
In addition to probiotics and skincare routines, other lifestyle modifications also contribute to improving both gut and skin health. These include maintaining a diet rich in fibre, minimising processed food consumption, regularly exercising, and managing stress effectively.
Remember, it's essential to discuss with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your skincare routine, diet, or lifestyle, particularly when managing psoriasis.
With an increasing understanding of the interconnectedness of the skin and gut microbiomes, learning to nurture these microbial communities can be a vital tool in managing psoriasis and promoting overall skin health.
Dr Niall Jawad
Dr Niall Jawad
Dr Niall Jawad



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Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
Your questions.
Answered.
Not sure what to expect? These answers might help you feel more confident as you begin.
Didn’t find your answer? Send us a message at
hello@proton-health.com — we’ll respond with care and clarity.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
How is this different to traditional dermatology or telehealth apps?
Most telehealth apps are just video calls with doctors who don't know your history, offering templated advice. Traditional dermatology gives you 7 minutes every few months. Symphony is different — it's an AI that learns your complete skin story and provides personalized guidance 24/7, backed by specialists who review your case. Think of it as a personal trainer for your skin, not just another appointment booking app.
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Which conditions does Symphony support?
Symphony is built for chronic skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, and topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). These are the conditions where understanding your triggers matters most — and where the traditional "here's a cream, see you in 3 months" approach fails hardest. If you're dealing with something else, reach out — we're expanding based on what our members need.
Is my data protected?
Is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted, never sold, and never used for advertising. You can export it. You can delete it anytime. Read our full privacy policy below.
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
Why not just see a dermatologist more frequently?
You could — if you could get an appointment, afford the visit, and somehow give them access to absolutely everything that happened between visits. The reality: your dermatologist sees a snapshot. Symphony sees the full picture — what you ate, how you slept, what products you used, how stressed you were — and connects it to how your skin responded. We're not replacing your dermatologist. We're giving them (and you) context they'd never otherwise have.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
How do I know if I'm a good candidate?
If you've been dealing with a chronic skin condition and still don't fully understand why your skin flares — you're a good candidate. Symphony works best for people willing to track consistently (a few minutes a day) and who want to understand their patterns, not just treat symptoms. If you're looking for a quick fix or a magic cream recommendation, we're probably not the right fit.
What if I've tried everything already?
What if I've tried everything already?
Then you're exactly who we built this for. "Tried everything" usually means you've tried a lot of products and treatments — but you've never had the tools to see how your skin actually responds to your life. Symphony doesn't give you more things to try. It helps you understand what's already happening — so the next thing you try is actually informed by your data. It knowing instead of guessing.
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Is Symphony a replacement for medical advice?
Symphony's AI and tracking tools are not a replacement for medical advice — they help you understand patterns in your own data, but they don't diagnose or prescribe.
That said, we know insights alone aren't always enough. That's why our Premium tier includes referrals to specialist dermatology consultations, gut and skin microbiome testing, and comprehensive lab panels — actual specialists who review your Symphony data.
The app gives you context and understanding. When you need clinical expertise, we connect you with professionals who understand your story.
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
How is Symphony different from apps that scan your face and sell you products?
Most "AI skincare" apps take a photo, run it through a basic algorithm, and recommend products they get commission on. They're not trying to help you understand your skin — they're trying to sell you things. Symphony doesn't work that way. We analyze your symptoms, lifestyle, stress, diet, and products over time to find patterns unique to you. We don't sell skincare products directly, and our recommendations are based on your data — not affiliate deals.
When we do recommend products, we're checking thousands of products against YOUR specific sensitivities and triggers. The goal is to stop you wasting money, not to add to the pile of half-used bottles under your sink.
Can I cancel anytime?
Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. No contracts, no cancellation fees. If Symphony isn't working for you, you can cancel in a few clicks. We'd rather earn your trust every month than trap you in one.

