Key Points

• Background & Rationale
  • Oral probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics may influence skin outcomes by modulating the gut microbiome, part of the gut–skin axis.
  • Diet is a modifiable factor in dermatological health, and this review sought to comprehensively map evidence across conditions, life stages, and intervention types.
• Methods
  • Scoping review based on a pre-registered protocol and Joanna Briggs Institute methodology.
  • Extensive search across six databases, including peer-reviewed and some non–peer-reviewed sources.
  • Included studies on oral:
    • Probiotics (live beneficial microbes)
    • Prebiotics (substrates that feed beneficial microbes)
    • Synbiotics (combination products)
  • Covered human and relevant animal studies with skin-related outcomes.
• Scope of Evidence
  • 516 unique studies included.
  • Majority focused on probiotics (401 studies).
  • Age groups most studied: infants (0–12 mo) and adults (18–60 y).
• Most Investigated Conditions and Outcomes
  • Atopic dermatitis — most extensively researched dermatological condition.
  • Psoriasis and acne were also examined, though with fewer studies.
  • Studies on skin health in healthy populations included outcomes such as wrinkling, elasticity, aging, and response to UV.
• Evidence Patterns
  • Existing systematic reviews cover oral probiotics’ role in preventing/treating some skin conditions (notably atopic dermatitis).
  • Evidence for oral prebiotics and synbiotics is less consistently mapped across all outcomes.
• Evidence Gaps and Limitations
  • Need for umbrella reviews on probiotics and atopic dermatitis.
  • Limited evidence synthesis for skin aging and less common conditions.
  • Many studies lack standardized reporting on strain specificity, dosage, dietary contexts, and diverse populations.

Conclusion & Perspective

• Conclusion
  • Oral probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics show promising links to improved skin health and function, especially for conditions like atopic dermatitis, and potentially for skin aging and other dermatological diseases.
  • While the evidence base is large, it is heterogeneous and varies in quality and scope — with probiotics dominating the literature compared to prebiotics and synbiotics.
• Perspective & Future Directions
  • Higher-level syntheses (e.g., umbrella reviews, meta-analyses) are needed, especially for well-studied areas like atopic dermatitis.
  • Future research should standardize intervention reporting (microbial strains, doses) and account for participant diet, age diversity, and ethnicity to improve generalizability.
  • Evidence mapping suggests untapped potential for oral synbiotic interventions and studies on less examined outcomes such as rosacea, alopecia, and melasma.
  • Ultimately, a clearer evidence map can help prioritize clinical research and guide product development targeting the gut–skin axis

Click here for more information.

The post From Gut to Skin: What 500 Studies Tell Us About Probiotics and Skin Health appeared first on Skin Aging & Challenges 2026.

The 16th International Conference on Skin Ageing & Challenges 2025, held in Valencia, gathered scientists, clinicians, and industrial innovators to explore how recent discoveries are transforming our understanding of skin longevity and rejuvenation.

We now recognize ageing not as a simple, gradual decline, but as a dynamic and progressive loss of coordination between cellular, metabolic, and immune networks that normally sustain skin homeostasis, repair, and adaptation.
This new conceptual framework positions ageing as a disruption of biological dialogue a process that can be measured, modelled, and eventually re synchronized through targeted molecular and technological interventions.

Scientific Highlights

This year’s discussions revealed a convergence between fundamental mechanisms and translational innovation:

• RNA-based nanotherapeutics demonstrated the ability to reprogram senescent fibroblasts and restore extracellular matrix function, introducing RNA medicine to skin biology.
• Integrated gut–skin organ-on-chip models provided human-relevant systems for understanding systemic interactions and predicting dermocosmetic efficacy.
• AI-driven proteomic clocks offered a new layer of precision in quantifying biological age and intervention efficacy.

The Innovation Awards 2025 highlighted these breakthroughs:
Nanovex Biotechnologies & Nalón Innova : RNA nanoparticles to reverse senescence and restore ECM homeostasis.
React4Life : Gut skin organ on chip models for predictive dermocosmetic assessment.
Pierre Fabre Dermocosmetics : AI based epidermal protein clock to quantify biological age.

Perspectives: Toward Predictive and Programmable Rejuvenation

The 2025 edition revealed a clear shift from descriptive biology toward predictive, programmable, and systemic approaches to skin ageing.
Future strategies will rely on:

• Integrating multi omics and AI analytics to decode ageing trajectories at single cell resolution.
• Developing bioengineered models and organoid systems that simulate cross-tissue communication and temporal adaptation.
• Exploring interventions that restore coordination between mitochondrial metabolism, immune balance, and extracellular architecture.

In this vision, skin ageing becomes a reversible systems disorder, not an inevitable outcome, one that can be recalibrated through molecular precision and biological orchestration.

Acknowledgements and Shared Mission

We warmly thank all speakers, chairs, panelists, and contributors for the exceptional scientific quality, openness, and depth of discussion that defined this edition. Special recognition goes to the leadership and vision of Marvin Edeas, whose scientific direction and integrative approach shaped the dialogue of the meeting, and to Jean Krutmann, whose long standing commitment and guidance continue to inspire the Skin Ageing and Challenges community.

Skin Ageing and Challenges 2025 reaffirmed its role as a catalyst for scientific and translational exchange, bridging fundamental research, biotechnology, and clinical innovation. Together, we share a common objective to extend skin healthspan through a dynamic, data driven, and mechanistic understanding of ageing.

We look forward to continuing this dialogue at Skin Ageing and Challenges 2026, where the next frontier will be the engineering of biological resilience.

On behalf of
Skin Ageing & Challenges 2025 

The post Dynamic Perspectives on Skin Ageing: From Cellular Dialogue to Systemic Reprogramming appeared first on Skin Aging & Challenges 2026.

If you were not able to attend the congress online or in-person, the abstracts book and recordings of all presentations of Skin Ageing & Challenges 2025 are now available for purchase.

Abstract Book

You can now gain access to the abstracts of 40+ communications, featuring major talks, short orals, and posters, highlighting advances in skin research and innovation.

Purchase Abstract Book.

Skin Ageing & Challenges 2025 Congress – Replay + Abstracts Book Access

Benefit from both Skin Ageing & Challenges 2025 Abstract Book and Recorded Sessions not to miss out on any 2025 skin research/ discovery.

Order the abstract book and recordings.

Skin Ageing & Challenges 2025 Program

The post Skin Ageing & Challenges 2025 Replay & Abstracts Book appeared first on Skin Aging & Challenges 2026.

Each nominated team will have 10 minutes to present their breakthrough.

7 minutes to share their research, and 3 minutes for discussion, focusing on:

1️⃣ The core of the innovation : what makes it unique or disruptive

2️⃣ Its impact on skin ageing: mechanisms, pathways, or outcomes

3️⃣ Why it stands out among the most promising approaches of 2025

Nominated Projects & Companies:

Integrated Gut–Skin Organ-On-Chip Models for Predictive Drug and Dermocosmetic Assessment
Elisabetta Palamà, React4life S.P.A., Italy

 The Skin Microbiome and Skin Aging: Experimental Models for Investigating Dermo-Cosmetic Interventions
Patricia Martin, VibioSphen, France

Effect of Combination of Royal Jelly Delivery Systems on Skin Longevity Markers
Eleni Panagiotidou, APIVITA SA, Research and Development, Greece

Ceramide NP C15-Based Emollient Modulates Skin Microbiota and Improves Barrier Function in Sensitive Skin
Estrella Millan, Evonik Operations GmbH, Germany

Exosome-Mediated Microbiome–Skin Interaction: An Innovative Approach to Boost Skin Wellness
Francesca Morra, Arterra Bioscience S.p.A., Italy

Naringenin, Peptides and Gold: Synergistic In Vitro Effect on Collagen Synthesis Confirmed in Anti-Ageing Activity in Vivo
Wiktoria Piskorz, Dr Irena Eris S.A., Poland

Stellar-Inspired Strategy for Skin Longevity: Astrobiology, Electronic Biology, and Molecular Resilience
Sanja Glisic, E-BioSkin, Serbia

A Propolis Polyphenol Delivery System and Vitamin C and E Synergy: A Novel Strategy for Skin Antioxidant Protection
Gardikis Konstantinos, APIVITA SA, Research and Development, Greece

Advancing Cosmetic Evaluation: Objective, AI-Driven Quantitative Measurement Method of Dynamic Wrinkles
Bartosz Waliś, dermostica institute, Poland

Your Cheeks Don’t Lie: LC–HRMS Proteomic and Lipidomic Signatures of Age and Metabolic Derangement in Human Stratum Corneum
Yeray Gabaldón, Universitat Rovira i Virgili & oloBion, Spain

Reprogramming Skin Aging: RNA Nanoparticles as Next-Generation Tools to Reverse Senescence and Restore ECM Homeostasis
Sandra Freitas-Rodríguez, Nanovex Biotechnologies S.L., Spain

A Novel Botanical Blend Targets Mitochondrial Nicotinamide Nucleotide Transhydrogenase to Synergistically Inhibit Melanogenesis and Attenuate Skin Aging
Lieve Declercq, PROYA Cosmetics Co., France

This session is one of the major highlights of Skin Ageing & Challenges 2025, showcasing translational and disruptive innovations that are redefining the boundaries of skin longevity, from RNA nanotechnology and organ-on-chip models to microbiome modulation and AI-driven analysis.

The Innovation Award winners will be announced at the end of the conference!

The post Who is the Most Promising Innovation of 2025? appeared first on Skin Aging & Challenges 2026.

1. Can we activate and enhance the immune system, particularly NK cells, to eliminate senescent skin cells without damaging healthy tissues?
2. How does mTORC1 dysregulation contribute to skin aging, and can we safely modulate its activity?
3. What are the most promising senolytic and senomorphic molecules for dermatological applications?
4. How can we improve the topical or systemic delivery of these agents for enhanced skin penetration and efficacy?
5. What role does cellular senescence play in conditions beyond skin aging, such as impaired wound healing or inflammatory skin diseases?
6. How do environmental factors, including UV exposure and pollution, accelerate skin senescence, and what protective measures can we implement?

• Senolytic Immunotherapy: Exploring NK cell-based strategies as a novel approach to eliminate senescent cells.
• Targeting Lysosomal Function: Investigating how lysosomal health affects skin aging and potential interventions.
• Pharmacological Senolytics and Senomorphics: Evaluating small molecules and natural compounds with senescence-modulating properties.
• Stem Cell & Regenerative Therapies: Understanding how mesenchymal stem cells and exosomes contribute to reversing skin senescence.
• Combination Therapies: Exploring synergistic effects between senolytics, antioxidants, and growth factors for skin rejuvenation.

• Clinical Translation: How close are we to integrating senolytics and senomorphics into mainstream dermatology?
• Safety & Efficacy: What are the long-term effects and potential risks of targeting senescence in the skin?
• Personalized Approaches: Can we develop diagnostic tools to assess skin senescence and tailor interventions accordingly?
• Microbiome-Senescence Interaction: What role does the skin microbiome play in modulating cellular senescence?
• Regulatory Perspectives: What challenges exist in gaining approval for senescence-targeting treatments?

The post Senolytic & Senomorphic Agents – Strategies and Impact on Rejuvenation appeared first on Skin Aging & Challenges 2026.

Aging is characterized by the progressive decline of tissue function and regenerative capacity, influenced by both intrinsic factors (natural accumulation of damage) and extrinsic stressors such as ultraviolet (UV) exposure and oxidative stress. Cellular senescence—an irreversible exit from the cell cycle triggered by excessive damage—has been extensively linked to tissue and organismal aging.

In a recent review, Dr. Bernadette Carroll and her team at the University of Bristol highlight the role of cellular senescence in skin aging. The study explores how mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 (mTORC1), a master growth regulator, becomes dysregulated in aged skin. Additionally, it examines how the interplay between mTORC1 and lysosomes contributes to senescence phenotypes. Given the skin’s critical role as a protective barrier, understanding these mechanisms may pave the way for novel interventions in age-related skin deterioration.

Read the full study.

Image Credit: Smith, P. and Carroll, B. (2025), FEBS J.

The post Senescence in Ageing Skin: A New Focus on mTORC1 and the Lysosome appeared first on Skin Aging & Challenges 2026.

Topic: Epigenetic Regulation of Skin Ageing-Associated Genes in Short-Lived and Long-Lived Mammals.

About Prof. Botchkarev

Currently a Professor of Dermatology and Co-Director at the Boston University Center for Aging Research, Prof. Botchkarev focuses on epigenetic factors influencing skin stem cell activity, aging, wound healing, and carcinogenesis. His prolific career includes over 100 publications in journals such as Nature, Cell Biology, Science Advances, and Cancer Research.

Prof. Vladimir A. Botchkarev has been honored with the prestigious Skin Ageing & Challenges Best Scientific Award 2023, recognizing his exceptional contributions to scientific research on “Skin Aging in Long-Lived Naked Mole-Rats: Mechanisms and Perspectives”. His detailed study of their skin aging transcriptome sheds light on how these creatures remarkably resist age-related skin cancer, offering vital insights for human skin biology.

Read more on his award-winning presentation.

The post Keynote Speaker 2025: Prof. Vladimir A. Botchkarev appeared first on Skin Aging & Challenges 2026.

The 15th International Conference on Skin Ageing & Challenges 2024, which was held at Corinthia Palace Malta on November 5-6, was a great success. Over 42 presentations on the latest skin and skin aging research were delivered to an audience of over 100 attendees representing 25 countries.

The post Successful 15th Edition of Skin Aging & Challenges 2024 Conference appeared first on Skin Aging & Challenges 2026.

Among Industrials

CosmeticOBS (Partner)
OPTIMEALTH®
Amoeba
Apivita S.A.
Arterra Bioscience S.p.A.
Antoniol Puig S.A.
AV Laboratories LLC
Beiersdorf AG
Essity Hygiene and Health AB
Evonik
Chanel Parfums Beauté
Contipro
Coty
Caudalie
Chemisches Laboratorium Dr. Kurt Richter
Givaudan Active Beauty
Dermostica Institute
Dr Irena Eris SA
Evonik
Givaudan Active Beauty
Groupe NAOS
HysensBio
Herbalife
IL Cosmetics
OptiLaboratoires Clarins
Laboratoires M&L – L’Occitane
LTDS laboratory
LVMH Recherche
La Prairie
Mibelle Group
MedDynamics AS
Nu Skin
Nordisk Helsokonsult AB
Innopeutics Ltd
Rapalogix
ROELMI HPC
SENISCA Ltd
Sederma
Shanghai Cheermore Industrial Development
Shenzhen Hujia Technology
Shiseido Global Innovation Center
Tianjin Finder Biotechnology
Unifarco

Among Academics

Ching-Kang Foundation for Pharmacy Promotion
Karolinska Institutet
INSERM
Lithuanian University of Health Sciences
Medical University of Vienna
Medical University of Warsaw
Melbourne Functional Medicine
Malmö University
Mid Sweden University
National Institute on Aging
Peking University
Seoul National University
Shanghai Cheermore Industrial
Silesian University of Technology
Stanford University
The Jackson Laboratory
Universidad San Francisco de Quito
University of Alabama at Birmingham
University of Bath
University of Innsbruck
University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences
Università del Piemonte Orientale
Universitätsklinikum Ulm
Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce

The post Who Attended Skin Ageing & Challenges 2024? appeared first on Skin Aging & Challenges 2026.

If you were not able to attend the congress online or in-person, the abstracts book and recordings of all presentations of Skin Ageing & Challenges 2024 are now available for purchase.

Abstract Book

You can now gain access to the abstracts of 43 communications, featuring major talks, short orals, and posters, highlighting advances in skin research and innovation.

Purchase Abstract Book.

Skin Ageing & Challenges 2024 Congress – Replay + Abstracts Book Access

Benefit from both Skin Ageing & Challenges 2024 Abstract Book and Recorded Sessions not to miss out on any 2024 skin research/ discovery.

Order the abstract book and recordings.

Skin Ageing & Challenges 2024 Program.

The post Skin Ageing & Challenges 2024 Replay & Abstracts Book appeared first on Skin Aging & Challenges 2026.