The Connection Between Your Hormones, Sunshine and Your Skin

Let's first take a moment to be grateful for our skin. It's our own superhero, protecting us from the outside world. And although we often complain about it—another pimple, just today!—our skin definitely deserves a little more love. In this article, we'll tell you all about your skin color (pigmentation). What influence do your genes, the sun, and—yes, here it comes—your hormones have on it?

Pigmentation: this is it and how it works

Your skin gets its color from the pigment melanin. This is produced by skin cells called melanocytes. When the sun shines, your skin cells (melanocytes) cause your skin to produce more melanin. This gives you a tan, which also provides protection: melanin absorbs some of the UV rays and protects your skin from harmful radiation (to a certain extent).

Your hormones and pigmentation

Your skin does its job to protect you, but of course, it doesn't do it alone. Your entire body works together beautifully in harmony, and when it comes to your skin, your hormones play a major role.

Your female hormones are important for your skin pigmentation. They determine what happens to your melanocytes (the cells that produce the pigment melanin).

If your hormone levels go haywire during certain periods such as puberty, pregnancy or menopause, this can also cause pigment changes.

Pigmentation changes during puberty

As hormones surge through your body, your melanocytes become highly active and produce more melanin. This is often the first time people experience freckles, dark moles, or even pigment spots.

Pigmentation changes during your childbearing years

Things can get even more interesting during your childbearing years. Long-term use of the pill, for example, can cause pigment spots.

And estrogen and progesterone can also be the cause of catamenial hyperpigmentation – skin changes that can occur during the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle.

Pigmentation changes during pregnancy

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause changes in your skin. Increased estrogen levels cause your melanocytes to work overtime, which can lead to skin changes.

Perhaps the most well-known pigmentation change during pregnancy is melasma, also known as the pregnancy mask. These are dark patches that appear on your face during pregnancy. Scientists are still unraveling the exact cause, but hormones and sun exposure appear to be the culprits.

Another common pigmentation change is linea nigra. This is the straight, dark line that runs from your navel to your mons pubis. Some women also experience darker nipples and genitals. It's not serious and often improves after the baby is born.

Pigmentation changes during menopause

Your skin can change again during menopause. As your estrogen levels drop, your skin changes too. You might notice a difference in texture, less elasticity, or a thinner top layer of skin.

This often makes you more vulnerable to the sun's rays. So it's important to give your skin some extra love and protection during this stage of life.

The impact of the sun on your pigmentation

We just talked about your hormones and pigmentation. But of course, we can't forget the influence of the sun.

When we feel those wonderful warm rays, something fascinating happens. The sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation awakens your melanocytes. These melanocytes respond by producing more melanin.

The result is a tanned complexion that protects us more from harmful rays. But if we're not careful, the sun can also cause sunspots or hyperpigmentation.

It is important to know that there are two types of UV radiation: UVB and UVA rays.

• UVA rays penetrate deeply into your skin and can cause long-term damage. They are associated with unwelcome consequences such as pigmentation disorders and premature aging. That's why it's crucial to protect yourself from these UVA rays to keep your skin protected and healthy.
• UVB rays cause sunburn . These are the rays that wake up your melanocytes and increase melanin production. UVB is how you tan. But again, too much UVB without the proper protection can lead to skin damage and an uneven skin tone. So take good care of your skin in the sun. Cover up or apply sunscreen.

The use of sunscreen

An important way to protect your skin from the elements is by using sunscreen. Choosing the right sunscreen is all about what works best for you.

Every year, more is written about good sunscreens, with the focus primarily on mineral and chemical sunscreens. Personal preference, skin sensitivity, and your own needs all play a role in the choice.

Some of us love the texture and feel of chemical sunscreens, while others prefer the physical barrier of mineral sunscreens. It's all about finding the perfect match for your skin's needs.

Whatever sunscreen you choose, the most important thing is to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with the appropriate SPF. This will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. And don't forget to reapply regularly.

Sunscreen is important because it can keep skin healthy by reducing the risk of sun damage. We want to keep those UV rays at bay to prevent premature aging, sunburn, and even more serious problems like skin cancer.

The difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen

Mineral sunscreen

Mineral sunscreens create a physical barrier on the skin's surface, acting as a shield against the sun's rays. How do they do this? These sunscreens contain active mineral ingredients, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which block UVA and UVB rays.

Benefits of mineral sunscreen:

• Offers broad-spectrum protection . This means they protect you from a wide range of harmful UV rays, shielding your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
• Works instantly . As soon as we apply a mineral sunscreen, it starts working immediately (you're protected right away).
• They are gentle , making them a good choice for sensitive skin. Mineral sunscreens are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions than their chemical counterparts.

Disadvantages of mineral sunscreen:

• Texture . Mineral sunscreens can be a bit thicker compared to other options, so they can leave a light, white residue on the skin. But hey, a small price to pay for that incredible protection, right?

Chemical sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens contain compounds like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, and octisalate. These compounds work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat, which is then released through your skin.

Benefits of chemical sunscreens

• Easy to apply . These sunscreens often have a light and smooth texture, making them easy to apply and blend with your skin.
• An elegant finish . Chemical sunscreens are formulated to feel aesthetically pleasing and leave a beautiful finish on your skin. They blend effortlessly without leaving that infamous white residue. This cream offers the best of both worlds – effective sun protection and a flawless, natural look.

Disadvantages of chemical sunscreens

• Time . Chemical sunscreens usually take half an hour to start working. So you have to be patient, but trust that they'll be working after thirty minutes and protecting your skin from those UV rays.
• Deeper penetration . It's worth noting that these sunscreens can penetrate deeper into the skin and enter your bloodstream. But don't worry, extensive research has been conducted to ensure safety.
• Skin irritation and sensitivity . For some people, chemical sunscreens can cause skin irritation or sensitivity.
• Potential hormone disruption . There are discussions about their potential impact on hormones. While science continues to investigate this topic, regulatory agencies will continue to monitor it closely.

Vitamins and minerals for healthy skin and pigmentation

Radiant skin goes beyond skincare products and routines. Did you know that what we eat directly impacts the health and appearance of our skin?

Our skin needs certain vitamins and minerals to repair itself, regulate pigmentation, and stay hydrated (hello glow!). These are the key vitamins and minerals that play a role in supporting our skin's health.

• Vitamin C : Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal functioning of the skin.
  
• Vitamin E : Vitamin E contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative damage.
  
• Vitamin A : Vitamin A contributes to the maintenance of normal skin.
  
• Vitamin B complex : The B vitamins, including B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid) and B8 (biotin), contribute to the maintenance of normal skin.
• Zinc : Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal skin.
  
• Copper : Copper contributes to normal skin pigmentation.

In a nutshell

So what's the secret to healthy, radiant skin? Nourishment from within, combined with the right sun protection and extra care during certain stages of life, such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. It's a holistic approach that combines a well-balanced diet, essential vitamins and minerals, and the shield of sunscreen. Choose this perfect trinity, and your skin will thank you!

Still have questions about your skin? Contact us via our live chat support . We're happy to help, so you can feel great every day of the month.