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A healthy gut supports glowing skin, while inclusive skincare ensures that everyone, regardless of skin type or tone, feels represented and cared for
Skin and gut have an innate relationship
Skincare is no longer just about what you apply to your skin—it’s about what happens inside your body and how products cater to diverse needs. Puja Parker, Founder, Mul Secrets, delves into the transformative power of gut health on skin vitality, while Kanikka Dewanii, Founder, Mintree, highlights the importance of inclusivity in skincare formulations. Together, their insights emphasize a holistic approach to beauty, merging inner wellness with external care for all skin types and tones.
The Gut-Skin Connection: Beauty from Within
“True beauty originates from within” resonates deeply when examining the intricate relationship between gut health and skin vitality. “The gut microbiome—a complex community of trillions of bacteria—plays a crucial role in regulating inflammation, enhancing immunity, and maintaining overall health,” says Puja Parker. Disruption in this balance, known as dysbiosis, can lead to visible skin issues like rosacea, eczema, acne, or premature aging.
Parker explains how leaky gut syndrome, where toxins and undigested food particles leak into the bloodstream, often triggers immune reactions that manifest as irritation and breakouts. Maintaining the gut-skin relationship is essential for clear, healthy skin. Parker suggests actionable steps to strengthen this connection:
Adopt a Gut-Friendly Diet:
“A diet rich in fiber—fruits, whole grains, and leafy greens—supports a balanced gut microbiome,” she notes. Fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut, which contain natural probiotics, are also essential.
Limit Inflammatory Foods:
“Cut back on sugar, processed foods, and refined carbs. They upset gut bacteria, often resulting in skin inflammation,” Parker advises.
Hydrate Consistently:
“Water is essential for detoxification and digestion, promoting healthier, clearer skin,” she adds.
Introduce Probiotics and Prebiotics:
Probiotics replenish healthy gut bacteria, while prebiotics found in garlic, bananas, and onions feed them. “These elements together ensure a thriving gut microbiome,” Parker explains.
Manage Stress Effectively:
Stress not only impacts the gut but also the skin. “Adopting stress-relief techniques helps maintain the gut’s delicate balance,” she emphasizes.
Parker concludes, “By caring for your gut intentionally, you’ll achieve glowing skin while boosting your overall vitality.”
Inclusivity in Skincare: Beauty for All
While hydration and gut health are essential for radiant skin, it’s equally important for skincare to cater to diverse needs. “Inclusivity in skincare isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity,” asserts Kanikka Dewanii, Founder of Mintree. Despite advancements in the beauty industry, many products still fail to accommodate a broad spectrum of skin tones and types.
“True inclusion means recognizing and addressing unique needs,” Dewanii explains. For example, skin with higher melanin levels is prone to hyperpigmentation and requires tone-evening formulas that avoid irritation. Similarly, sensitive skin demands hypoallergenic products that steer clear of harsh chemicals.
Steps Toward Inclusive Skincare
Dewanii outlines key strategies for brands to create truly inclusive skincare:
Universal Ingredients:
“Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides work well for a variety of skin types and concerns,” says Dewanii.
Tailored Formulations:
Products targeting specific issues like hyperpigmentation must account for melanin levels, while sensitive skin products should exclude allergens.
Expanded Shade Ranges:
“Offering broader shade ranges in tinted moisturizers and sunscreens ensures accessibility for everyone,” she emphasizes.
Dewanii also highlights the importance of educating consumers about their unique skincare needs. “Listening to underrepresented voices and creating solutions for everyone is the future of skincare. Diversity fosters beauty, and skincare should reflect this.”
Merging Inner and Outer Wellness
Both Parker and Dewanii’s insights reflect a growing understanding that skincare goes beyond superficial treatments. A healthy gut supports glowing skin, while inclusive skincare ensures that everyone, regardless of skin type or tone, feels represented and cared for. Together, these approaches embody a new era in beauty—one that values health, diversity, and empowerment for all.
