Postbiotic derived from Lacticaseibacillus paracasei CNCM I-5220 as a novel approach to improve ageing-induced skin damage

The ageing process impacts skin health by reducing cell turnover and altering skin microbiota, which plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and protection against pathogens. Microbiota-derived metabolites, including postbiotics generated through nutrient fermentation, may contribute to these protective functions. In this context, topical application of postbiotics represents a promising strategy to mitigate visible signs of skin ageing. We investigated the effects of PB-SKF, a postbiotic derived from the fermentation of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) by Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain CNCM I-52201on skin functional properties. Gene expression profiling of PB-SKF-treated keratinocytes suggested the modulation of pathways associated with age-related processes. Consistent with these findings, in vitro experiments showed increased hyaluronic acid and pro-collagen production by keratinocytes and fibroblasts, respectively, following PB-SKF treatment. In addition, PB-SKF promoted fibroblast migration, supporting a potential role in wound healing-related processes. These findings supported the evaluation of PB-SKF in a clinical setting. After six weeks of topical application of cream containing 2% PB-SKF, treatment with the postbiotic significantly reduced skin roughness and increased hydration, elasticity, and echogenicity compared to placebo. Overall, PB-SKF exhibits anti-ageing-like properties both in vitro and in the clinical evaluation, supporting its role in maintaining skin homeostasis.