To avoid the harmful rays of the sun, applying sunscreen is definitely a quick solution. While we often think of tanning as a direct result of sun exposure, emerging research suggests that internal factors like gut health may play a subtle role in how our skin responds to the sun.

So, can poor gut health really cause an increase in tanning?

Gut Health and Skin: The Relationship

Our intestine does much more than digest food. It is home to trillions of microorganisms that make up our gut microbiome, a complex ecosystem essential for overall health. A well-balanced gut microbiome controls inflammation, supports the immune system and even impacts skin health. When this balance is disturbed – a condition known as dysbiosis – it can lead to problems like inflammation and oxidative stress.

Inflammation and oxidative stress are known to affect melanin production, the pigment responsible for the color of our skin, hair and eyes. They can affect how the skin reacts to UV rays from the sun, potentially increasing the likelihood of uneven pigmentation or damage.

Does poor gut health cause excess tanning?

“Emerging research shows that gut health and skin health are linked,” says Dr Ruby Sachdev, consultant and aesthetic surgeon, Gleneagles Hospital, Bengaluru. Poor gut health can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress, which can aggravate pigmentation disorders or uneven tanning. A balanced gut microbiome supports overall skin health.

However, she adds, a poor gut can impair the absorption of essential nutrients like antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that protect our skin from sun damage. This may increase the risk of UV-related changes in the skin, although not necessarily increase tanning.

One study has found a causal relationship between the gut microbiome and the ease of skin tanning. The gut-skin connection is the term used to describe the connection between the digestive system and skin health.

What Ayurveda Says About Gut Health and Tanning

In Ayurveda, Vata prakriti (individuals with predominant air and sky elements) naturally have qualities such as dryness, lightness, and irregularity in their bodily functions. This makes their metabolism unpredictable, leading to a possible deficiency of rasa dhatu (plasma or nutrient fluid), which is responsible for nourishing and hydrating the body’s tissues, including the skin.

Dr. Milind Salunkhe, Wellness Director, Swastik Wellbeing Sanctuary, says, “When Rasa Dhatu is not adequately fulfilled due to the dry nature of Vata, it results in dry, rough skin. Additionally, Vata’s tendency to disturb digestive processes can lead to constipation, as the body struggles to maintain proper moisture and smooth functioning in the digestive tract. This imbalance contributes to skin dryness and increases the likelihood of tanning in individuals with Vata prakriti.

What should be done

“Individuals with higher skin prototype (a person’s skin type in terms of reaction to ultraviolet radiations), greater eumelanin production and genetic predisposition will tan more than others,” says Dr. Aparna Santhanam, dermatologist and dermatologist at ITC Dermafique. . While tanning may be considered protective, it is still a sign of UV-induced damage, and sun protection measures are essential for everyone to reduce the risk of photodamage and skin cancer.

Experts suggest following these steps:

• Use sun protection: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ and wear protective clothing.
• Limit sun exposure: Avoid peak UV hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm.
• Maintain gut health: Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, probiotics, and hydration to promote healthy skin.
• Consult a professional: Consult a dermatologist or beauty consultant for personalized treatments such as chemical peels or laser therapy to address pigmentation concerns.

Although poor gut health does not directly cause increased tanning, it can affect your skin’s response to sun exposure by affecting factors such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and nutrient availability. Conversely, tanning and sun exposure can also impact your gut microbiota, showing how interconnected our internal and external health really are.