Beneath the surface of our skin is a thriving ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. This microbiome plays an important role that keeps our skin youthful, resilient, and protects us from harmful pathogens. Studies also show that a well-balanced microbiome can promote wound healing, defend against infections, and even counteract the damaging effects of UV rays.

There has been a growing awareness of the skin microbiome and so many skincare companies are now introducing 'probiotics' for skin.

How Effective Are These?

The idea of using bacteria to improve skin health is not new. It has been there from as early as 1992, when scientists experimented with applying bacteria to treat acne and seborrhea, which is a skin condition that causes itching and flaking. The skincare industry today offers a wide range of probiotic-infused products, from cleansers and serums to moisturizers. All of them promise to rebalance the skin microbiome.

However, a closer look also reveals that many of these products do not actually contain live bacteria. Instead they rely on prebiotics, which are the nutrients that encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria, or postbiotics, which are the byproducts of bacteria that may benefit the skin.

The Challenge of Keeping Bacteria Alive

Why don’t most skincare products contain live probiotics? The answer lies in the difficulty of keeping bacteria alive throughout the manufacturing and storage process. Even if live bacteria make it into a product, there’s no guarantee they will survive long enough to take effect on the skin, where they must compete with millions of existing microbes.

Can Live Bacteria Treat Skin Conditions?

Despite the challenges, some researchers are testing whether live bacteria can treat specific skin conditions like eczema and acne. One promising approach focuses on the relationship between Staphylococcus aureus—a bacterium commonly found on the skin of eczema patients—and beneficial bacteria like Staphylococcus hominis, which can naturally fight off harmful microbes.

A 2021 clinical trial tested a cream containing live S. hominis on eczema patients. After one week, participants saw reduced S. aureus colonization and improvements in redness and itching. A larger phase two trial is now underway to evaluate long-term effectiveness.

Similarly, in a 2018 study, scientists performed microbiome transplants on eczema patients using Roseomonas mucosa bacteria from healthy skin. After 16 weeks, symptoms improved by over 50%.

Can Probiotics Prevent Skin Aging and Cancer?

Beyond treating skin conditions, probiotics may have broader benefits. In animal studies, a strain of Staphylococcus epidermidis was found to produce a compound that protects against UV-induced skin cancer. While human trials are needed, these findings suggest that probiotics could one day play a role in skin cancer prevention.

Some studies also suggest that prebiotics and postbiotics may improve overall skin health. Ingredients like inulin, found in some skincare products, create a favorable environment for beneficial microbes. Additionally, bacteria found in fermented dairy products may help boost ceramide production, which strengthens the skin barrier and improves hydration.

When we hear about blood pressure, it's often in the context of hypertension — the "silent killer" that increases long-term risk for heart attacks and strokes. But there’s another side to the story that can be just as dangerous, if not more immediately deadly. Blood pressure is more than just a pair of numbers on your doctor’s chart—it’s a vital sign of how well your heart and blood vessels are delivering life-sustaining oxygen and nutrients to every organ in your body.

While most people are familiar with the risks of high blood pressure, the dangers of a sudden drop in blood pressure, or acute hypotension, are often underestimated and sometimes misunderstood but can such a drop be fatal? A sudden drop in blood pressure, known as acute hypotension. While occasional dizziness or lightheadedness may seem harmless, in some cases, a rapid decline in blood pressure can trigger a chain reaction that may ultimately result in organ failure or even death.

What Happens When Blood Pressure Plummets?

Blood pressure is measured as two numbers: systolic (the pressure as your heart beats) and diastolic (the pressure as your heart rests between beats). According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, a normal reading for healthy adults is under 120/80 mmHg. When blood pressure falls below 90/60 mmHg, it’s considered low, or hypotension.

A sudden decrease—even a drop of just 20 mmHg in systolic pressure—can cause symptoms like dizziness, confusion, and fainting. More severe drops can be catastrophic, as Dr. S.S. Sibia, Cardiologist & Director at Sibia Medical Center Ludhiana, explains, "A sudden loss of blood pressure, or acute hypotension, can actually lead to death. Blood pressure helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to vital organs like the brain, heart, and kidneys. If BP suddenly falls, the body may not be in a state to maintain regular blood flow, leading to severe complications."

What Causes The Blood Pressure To Drop Suddenly?

There are several causes of acute hypotension, and they often intersect. Here are the most common physiological triggers:

Hypovolemia: A drop in blood volume due to bleeding, vomiting, or dehydration

Decreased cardiac output: When the heart fails to pump enough blood, often due to a massive heart attack

Vasodilation: Widening of blood vessels in conditions like sepsis or a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)

Hypotensive syndrome: A term used when multiple factors contribute to a sudden drop in blood pressure

Dr. Yogendra Singh Rajput, Associate Director of Cardiology at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, notes, "The most common cause of sudden drop in blood pressure is massive heart attack. Any massive heart attack of right side or a right coronary artery can lead to a sudden drop... ultimately the patient can die." He adds that internal bleeding — such as from a ruptured gastric ulcer — or extreme dehydration from vomiting or loose motions, are other serious culprits.

Symptoms of Sudden Low Blood Pressure

When blood pressure drops quickly, the body doesn't get enough oxygen, especially the brain. That’s why many of the early symptoms are neurologic in nature:

• Dizziness or fainting
• Confusion or disorientation
• Blurred vision
• Lightheadedness
• Heart palpitations
• Cold, clammy skin
• Headache
• Rapid breathing

These signs may appear suddenly, sometimes with no warning. In severe cases, the person may lose consciousness or go into shock, a life-threatening condition. "Warning symptoms include dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, fainting, and cold or sweaty skin," says Dr. Sibia. "Some may ignore these symptoms, assuming they are insignificant, but ignoring them can delay treatment and worsen outcomes."

"Acute hypotension is a sudden and severe drop in blood pressure that can be deadly if not treated right away," says Dr. Rahul Mehrotra, Chief - NIC & Clinical Cardiology, Artemis Hospitals. "When BP gets too low, these organs don't get enough blood, which can lead to organ failure and even death." Dr. Mehrotra highlights the top medical emergencies that often result in sudden hypotension:

• Major bleeding (from trauma or internal injuries)
• Heart attack
• Sepsis, a life-threatening infection
• Anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction
• Severe dehydration

He further emphasizes that not all cases of low BP are dangerous. "When blood pressure is low but not too low, it usually isn't a big deal for healthy people. But a sudden and severe drop in blood pressure should never be ignored."

How Fast Can A Drop In Blood Pressure Turn Fatal?

The progression from a sudden drop in blood pressure to life-threatening complications can be rapid. When blood flow to vital organs is interrupted, shock can develop within minutes, leading to organ failure and, if untreated, death.

Dr. Yogendra explains, "Sometime a sudden drop in the blood pressure may be because of sudden loss of fluid inside the body like severe dehydration due to loose motions, due to excessive vomiting, due to excessive blood loss, due to internal organ injury or due to internal blood loss in the form of rupture of gastric ulcer. So there are many things which can cause drop in the blood pressure and ultimately patient may succumb to death."

When Is It an Emergency?

While some people live with chronically low blood pressure without symptoms, a sudden and significant drop—especially with symptoms—should always be treated as a medical emergency. Dr. Mehrotra emphasizes, "You should never ignore a sudden and severe drop in blood pressure. IV fluids, medications, and emergency procedures are all examples of timely medical care that can save lives. In short, a sudden drop in blood pressure can be deadly if you don't get help. Being able to see the warning signs early can make a big difference."

While a slight drop in blood pressure can occur from something as benign as standing up too fast, a sudden and unexplained dip should not be taken lightly. Acute hypotension is not just about numbers on a monitor — it’s about how the body responds when critical systems are deprived of oxygen-rich blood.

As Dr. Rajput puts it bluntly, "Yes, a sudden drop in blood pressure can cause sudden death." While mild, brief episodes may cause only dizziness, a rapid and significant decline can be life-threatening, especially if it signals a heart attack, severe bleeding, sepsis, or anaphylaxis. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking immediate medical help can be the difference between recovery and tragedy.

Disclaimer: If you or someone around you experiences sudden and unexplained symptoms of low blood pressure, treat it as a true emergency. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, or concerns about your health.

Somedays start with a sour mood, whether it is because you woke up in a bad state, your daily routine is disrupted or because you had an unpleasant interaction that day. These things are normal and so is being in a bad mood sometimes for no reason. But did you know, this bad mood can be triggered by your skin? A recent clinical study suggests that the bacteria living on our skin might actually play a part in how happy we feel and how stressed we get.

Research Finds Skin-Mood Connection

Dermatologists have found that having more of a specific skin bacterium, called Cutibacterium, is linked to better moods and less stress. This connection was clearest when scientists took skin samples from people's faces or underarms. Cutibacterium is a helpful germ that naturally lives on healthy human skin. It acts like a protector, keeping bad bacteria from growing too much.

How They Found the Link

The study, published in the British Journal of Dermatology, involved 53 people. They provided skin samples from their face, scalp, forearm, and underarm. They also filled out surveys about their stress levels, how well they slept, and their general mood.

The researchers saw a clear pattern; higher levels of Cutibacterium were associated with improved mental well-being. They found that more Cutibacterium meant people reported significantly lower stress. The bacterium found in the underarms was also linked to both lower stress and better moods, including feeling happier and less tense.

How Your Brain And Skin Communicate

The researchers explain that our skin is a complex organ that consists of several nerves, immune cells, and even its own little "brain" system that can make and respond to chemicals like serotonin and dopamine which are linked to happiness. Through nerves, special chemicals, and immune cells, your skin can influence and be influenced by stress, inflammation, and even the tiny microbes (germs) living on your skin.

"Skin-Brain Axis" Theory

These findings support an idea called the "skin-brain axis." This theory suggests that our skin and our mental state can actually influence each other. Researchers explained that while we've known gut bacteria can affect our mood, the role of skin bacteria has been less understood until now.

However, this is not the only time researchers have explored this connection. In a 2025 study published in the Clinics in Dermatology, the researchers explain that our skin and brain "talk" to each other. This two-way communication can change the way skincare products work.

The researchers explained that this is a new field called neurocosmetics which is a combination of neurology, dermatology as well as mental health. The goal of neurocosmetics is to create skincare products that not only make your skin healthier but also make you feel better emotionally.

Neurocosmetics are a new kind of skincare product that you apply to your skin. These products are designed to work with your skin's nerve system to improve both your skin's health and your emotional well-being.

Unlike treatments for skin conditions that are caused by emotional problems (which is called psychodermatology), neurocosmetics take a more active approach. They aim to improve your mood, reduce skin reactions caused by stress, and create a better balance between your skin and your brain.

Beyond Just Skin Health

This exciting discovery could lead to new skincare products that benefit both our mental health and our skin health. Unilever, a company deeply invested in this research with over 30,000 skin microbiome samples and many related patents, believes these findings are a significant step forward.

The idea of neurocosmetics is growing. Scientists want to understand exactly how the skin and brain interact, including the role of the skin microbiome (all the tiny organisms living on your skin). They're also looking at how artificial intelligence (AI) can help create personalized skincare that responds to your emotional state.

This combination of brain science and skin science could lead to a new generation of smart skincare products that are proven to have a real impact on both your physical skin health and how you feel.

Heart health is a complex issue that people all over the world have to deal with. Being the lead cause of death, cardiovascular diseases cause the death of one person every 33 seconds, according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. 2022 stats show that 702,880 people died from heart diseases in the US. Heart attacks are one of the most common occurrences here. CDC explains that about 805,000 people suffer heart attacks every year, 605,000 of these are first heart attacks and 200,000 of these happen to people who have already had heart attacks. As the numbers grow over each month, it is very important that we recognize the early signs of it to ensure the health and well-being of our close ones.

A US-based heart doctor, Dr. Emmanuel Isang, has shared some really important information about heart attack symptoms. He's especially highlighted how these signs can be different for women. Dr. Isang often shares helpful medical videos on his TikTok account, and he says that recognizing these less common signs is very important. One of the lesser-known symptoms he spoke of is sharp elbow pain.

Typical vs. Less Common Heart Attack Signs

Usually, people think of a heart attack as a heavy feeling or pain in the middle of the chest that might spread to the shoulder, jaw, or elbow. This kind of pain is worrying if it gets worse when you move around and feels better when you rest or take certain medications like nitroglycerin. But Dr. Isang stresses that women might not have these classic chest pains. Instead, they could experience:

• Pain in their elbow
• Pain in their jaw
• Shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air)
• Sweating
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy

Even though these symptoms can be caused by many things, Dr. Isang advises that if you suddenly start having any of these new symptoms, it's crucial to see a doctor. He emphasizes that telling a medical professional right away is important so they can properly check you out and guide you to the right treatment.

Chest Pain Symptom In Women Are Different

Dr. Isang points out something many people don't realize: chest pain from a heart attack doesn't always feel the same for everyone, especially for women. He explains that women's symptoms are often misunderstood or not given enough attention when it comes to heart problems. The truth is, women can have very different signs when they're actually having a heart attack or when their heart arteries are blocked.

Heart Attack Symptoms You Should Know

The NHS (National Health Service in the UK) also agrees with some of what Dr. Isang says. They list common heart attack symptoms, which include:

• A feeling of pressure, heaviness, tightness, or squeezing across your chest.
• Pain that spreads from your chest to your arms, usually the left arm, but it can affect both.
• Other signs like coughing, wheezing, sweating, shortness of breath, feeling sick (nausea), and throwing up (vomiting).

For general elbow and arm pain that isn't usually serious, the NHS suggests seeing your regular doctor (GP) if the pain doesn't go away after a few weeks. However, you should go to the emergency room if you have severe arm pain that makes it hard to move, if you hurt your arm and heard a snapping noise, if your arm looks strangely shaped, or if your arm feels tingly or numb.