Our skin, which is the largest organ of our body, serves as a powerful barrier between us and the outside world, protecting us from environmental toxins, pathogens, and physical damage. Caring for our skin goes beyond just surface-level treatments; it requires nurturing it from within. This involves a balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants, staying hydrated, managing stress, and using natural, non-toxic skincare products. When we prioritize the health of our skin, we’re not just enhancing our appearance but also supporting our overall well-being, as healthy skin reflects a balanced and thriving body.
All of this probably sounds so familiar to you already. But I want to take things a little deeper because it’s more than just environmental influences and lifestyle choices that affect our skin. Our genetics play a huge role as well. From photoaging to skin texture, inflammation, and nutritional needs, understanding the genetic underpinnings of these aspects can help guide holistic approaches to maintaining healthy skin.
Since we are approaching the end of Summer, let’s talk about photoaging for a few minutes. Photoaging refers to the premature aging of the skin due to repeated exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This process can lead to wrinkles, collagen breakdown, sun spots, freckles, and changes in skin tone.
Genetics play a crucial role in determining how your skin responds to UV exposure. Variations in genes related to collagen production and repair, such as the COL1A1 and COL1A2 genes, influence how quickly collagen fibers degrade when exposed to UV light. Individuals with certain genetic predispositions may experience faster collagen breakdown, leading to more pronounced wrinkles.
To help support wrinkles and collagen breakdown, increase antioxidants like vitamins C and E, zinc, green tea, carotenoids from vitamin A, algae, CoQ10, and hyaluronic acid. All of these help to improve damage.
The ability to tan and the development of sun spots are also genetically influenced. The tanning response also has an interesting correlation with vitamin D. Those who don’t tan well (and also have a higher risk of wrinkles and sun spots) tend to have higher vitamin D compared to those who tan easily, like me! There are many different genes at play here. The MC1R gene, for example, affects skin pigmentation. Variations in this gene can determine how your skin responds to sun exposure, with certain alleles increasing the risk of freckles and sun spots.
To help support your skin from tanning and sun spots, consider adding things like green tea, probiotics, vitamin A, and omega’s to help calm the inflammation response.
Freckles are small, concentrated areas of pigmentation that appear in response to UV radiation. People with certain MC1R gene variants are more likely to develop freckles, especially if they have lighter skin tones.
Skin texture and elasticity are influenced by the structure and function of the skin’s connective tissue. Genetics play a role in determining how resilient your skin is to changes such as cellulite, stretch marks, and varicose veins.
Cellulite, also known as “orange peel skin” is the result of uneven fibrous tissue + fat. Did you know that 85% of women over 20 will present with this mostly on their thighs, hips, and butt? This is because the appearance of cellulite is influenced by a combination of genetics, hormones, age, and weight fluctuations. Genes related to fat distribution, connective tissue structure, and circulation can predispose individuals to cellulite. For example, variations in the HIF1A gene, which affects oxygen supply to tissues, may contribute to the formation of cellulite.
Research points to bioactive collagen peptides (BCP) or topicals that contain caffeine, THPE, retinol, and red algae.
Stretch marks, or striae, occur when the skin is stretched rapidly, such as during pregnancy, weight loss/gain, obesity, hormone changes, conditions like diabetes, long-term use of steroids, and you guessed it– genetics. The elasticity of your skin is partly determined by genes that regulate collagen and elastin production. Variations in these genes can increase the likelihood of developing stretch marks.
One study saw positive results from topical rosehip oils, vitamin E plus centella, and hydroxyprolisilane-c.
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that occur when blood flow is restricted. Did you know that more than ⅓ of the world is affected by these painful, aching or itching veins? Crazy right!? Obesity, standing or walking upright for long periods, hormonal changes, and genetics such as the MTHFR variant can precipitate these veins. Family history is also a strong predictor of this condition.
Evidence of supplementation with CoQ10 has shown improvements with varicose veins.
Inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea, dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema are often influenced by genetic factors. These conditions result from an overactive immune response, which can be triggered by both internal and external factors.
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by facial redness, swelling, and sometimes pimples. Genetic predispositions, particularly in genes related to the immune system and blood vessel function, can increase the risk of developing rosacea.
Some other triers for rosacea are stress, heat, sunlight, food, alcohol, and skin infection. It’s “relatively harmless” yet quality of life is compromised as well as psychological wellness. Things like omega fatty acids, GLA, and a low glycemic diet can prove beneficial.
Dermatitis, or eczema, is an inflammatory skin condition that causes itching, redness, and swelling. There are two different types of contact dermatitis: irritant and allergic. Variations in the FLG gene, which is responsible for producing filaggrin (a protein essential for maintaining skin barrier function), can make the skin more susceptible to irritation and inflammation.
Topical vitamin C and E and green tea are a few options to help with the symptoms associated with dermatitis. But the most effective way is to work on healing the gut-skin barrier.
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that leads to rapid skin cell turnover, resulting in scaly, red patches. Genetic factors play a significant role, with variations in several genes, including the PSORS1 gene, which is linked to an increased risk of psoriasis. Many other genetic variations, as well as scratching, medications such as NSAIDS and beta blockers, infections, and cold temperatures can exacerbate the condition.
Oral vitamin D, B12, selenium, and omega 3’s have all shown helpful in managing symptoms.
Eczema is also another chronic inflammatory skin disease with a red rash that seems to bubble. And like dermatitis, eczema is influenced by genetic factors related to skin barrier function and immune response. In addition to the FLG gene, other genes involved in immune system regulation may also contribute to the development of eczema. Eczema has also been known to affect sleep and other areas of psychological well-being.
Some things that have been shown to help improve the symptoms of eczema are oral vitamin A, vitamin D, zinc, and probiotics- especially for children.
Understanding the genetic factors involved in skin health allows us to adopt a more personalized and holistic approach to skincare. By combining knowledge of our genetic predispositions with targeted nutrition, sun protection, and mindful lifestyle choices, we can enhance our skin’s natural resilience and maintain a healthy, youthful appearance.
Whether you’re concerned about photoaging, skin texture, inflammation, or simply want to support your skin’s overall health, it helps to have a look into your genetics to see if you could be carrying any genes that would be causing any of these issues.
