To escape from the harmful rays of the sun, the definitive quick fix is to apply sunscreen.
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 reacts to the sun.
So, can poor gut health actually cause increased tanning?
Gut health and skin: The connection
Our gut does much more than just digesting food. It’s home to trillions of microorganisms that make up our gut microbiome, a complex ecosystem essential for overall health. A well-balanced gut microbiome regulates inflammation, supports the immune system, and even influences skin health. When this balance is disrupted—a state known as dysbiosis—it can lead to problems like inflammation and oxidative stress.
Inflammation and oxidative stress are known to impact melanin production, the pigment responsible for the colour of our skin, hair, and eyes. They can affect how the skin reacts to UV rays from the sun, potentially leading to uneven pigmentation or an increased likelihood of damage.
Does poor gut health lead to more tanning?
Dr Ruby Sachdev, consultant and aesthetic physician, Gleneagles Hospital Bengaluru, says, “Emerging research suggests that gut health and skin health are interconnected. Poor gut health can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress, which may exacerbate pigmentation disorders or uneven tanning. A balanced gut microbiome supports overall skin health.”
However, she adds, that a compromised gut may impair the absorption of essential nutrients like antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that protect our skin from sun damage. This could make the skin more prone to UV-related changes, though not necessarily increased tanning.
A study has found a causal association between the gut microbiome and ease of skin tanning. The gut-skin connection is the term used to describe the link between the digestive system and skin health.
What Ayurveda says about gut health and tanning
In Ayurveda, Vata Prakruti (individuals with a predominant air and space element) naturally have qualities like dryness, lightness, and irregularity in their body functions. This makes their metabolism unpredictable, leading to potential depletion of Rasa Dhatu (plasma or nutritive fluid), which is responsible for nourishing and hydrating the body tissues, including the skin.
Dr Milind Salunke, wellness director at Swastik Wellbeing Sanctuary says, “When Rasa Dhatu is not adequately replenished due to Vata’s drying nature, it results in dry, rough skin. Additionally, Vata’s tendency to disturb digestive processes can cause constipation, as the body struggles to maintain proper moisture and smooth functioning in the digestive tract. This imbalance contributes to skin dryness and makes tanning more likely in Vata Prakruti individuals.
What should be done
Dr Aparna Santhanam, dermatologist and skin expert at ITC Dermafique, says, “Individuals with higher skin prototypes (a person’s skin type in terms of response to ultraviolet radiations), greater eumelanin production, and genetic predisposition will tan more than others. While tanning may be perceived as 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 cancers.
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, usually 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: Seek advice from a dermatologist or aesthetic consultant for personalised treatments such as chemical peels or laser therapy to address pigmentation concerns.
While poor gut health doesn’t directly cause increased tanning, it can influence your skin’s response to sun exposure by affecting factors like inflammation, oxidative stress, and nutrient availability. Conversely, tanning and sun exposure can also impact your gut microbiota, showing just how interconnected our internal and external health truly are.