Pre‐, Pro‐, Post‐, and Synbiotics for Skin Health: A Narrative Review of Cosmetic and Dermatological Applications

ABSTRACT Background Prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, and synbiotics have been increasingly investigated and incorporated into cosmetic formulations to preserve or restore skin health, function, and esthetics. Objective To review biotics applications in cosmetology, discussing their concepts, general characteristics, and potential benefits and limitations in modulating the skin microbiome and improving skin health. Methodology Literature searches were conducted on the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases to identify studies evaluating the role of biotics in skin health and dermatological applications. No language restrictions were applied, and studies published up to April 2025 were considered. Full‐text in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies investigating topical prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, or synbiotics were included. Abstracts, reviews, editorials, letters, meta‐analyses, and conference proceedings were excluded. Analysis covered biotic category, study design, and microbiological and tissue‐related outcomes. Results The review sample included 60 studies. In vitro and in vivo evidence indicates that prebiotics, postbiotics, and synbiotics can reduce potentially pathogenic microorganisms, including Staphylococcus aureus , Cutibacterium acnes , and Corynebacterium spp., without negatively affecting—or in some cases promoting—the growth of commensal bacteria such as Staphylococcus epidermidis . Most studies reported antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antimelanogenic effects, in addition to improvements in skin hydration and anti‐aging parameters. However, clinical evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of these compounds, particularly in disease‐related conditions, remains limited. Conclusion Further research, especially well‐designed in vivo and clinical studies, is needed to elucidate the long‐term effects, benefits, and limitations of biotics application on the skin and its microbiome. Despite their widespread use in cosmetic products, an evidence‐based approach is essential to ensure the efficacy and safety of biotic‐based formulations.