The term "exposome" refers to the set of environmental and exposure factors that each of us is subjected to throughout our lives. In other words, it is the analysis of non-genetic risk factors (harmful substances, our diet, psychosocial stress, and physical activity) and the impact they have on our body. Wherever we live, whatever lifestyle we lead, everything has repercussions on our health. Therefore, are you ready to discover more about the exposome and how it affects your skin? Let's go…
The study of how external factors impact our genome and consequently our health is a relatively new concept in science, but part of the scientific community calls for more exploration, with the aim of protecting future generations from chemical pollutants, among other factors, which are unfortunately increasingly present in our environment. If you've been following me on social media for a while, you'll know how the concept of skin as a "barrier" is one of the primordial principles of the TWELVE BEAUTY collection. Moreover, with the fact that many scientific investigations have already established links between various skin diseases and conditions and the human exposome, it's no wonder I've become a passionate advocate for how a strong skin barrier is key to maintaining healthier skin for longer!
It's normal to think that the external factors most likely to affect our skin health are the typical well-known chemicals, pesticides, and heavy metals. However, it goes much further. There are some components present in our daily lives that can have a negative impact on our skin, and we don't realize it! But don't worry, we are here to help you understand the exposome and how it affects your skin, as well as how to counteract its effects.
AIR POLLUTION AND TOBACCO SMOKE Several scientific studies demonstrate an undeniable link between air pollution (including tobacco smoke) and hyperpigmentation, loss of elasticity, and the appearance of wrinkles.
How to defend yourself: Daily use of antioxidants, emollients, and film-forming ingredients like squalane, hyaluronic acid, and rice starch are a must if you want to protect your skin from this invisible enemy.
SUN EXPOSURE AND BLUE LIGHT FROM ELECTRONIC DEVICES Both UV rays and blue light are a threat to our skin's health as both generate free radicals. (Hello, premature aging!)
How to defend yourself: Look for products containing Buddleja to repair cell damage, Yarrow and Evening Primrose to reduce hyperpigmentation, and spent grain wax to relieve irritation. They will be your new friends!
UNSUITABLE PRODUCTS OR COSMETICS FOR YOUR SKIN Using products not suitable for your skin type can lead to endless problems.
How to avoid this: If possible, try the product before buying, in order to identify the ingredients that work best for you and thus avoid those that cause some kind of reaction. If not, contact the brand directly and ask for personalized recommendations. At TWELVE, we offer an online skin advisory service if you cannot visit one of our distributors. (We also send free product samples with every purchase!)
THE SKIN MICROBIOME A compromised skin microbiome is synonymous with a weakened skin barrier and can lead to inflammation, redness, flaking, and infections, among others.
How to keep it strong: Look for key ingredients such as saccharide isomerate, a plant-derived carbohydrate that stimulates the growth of good bacteria, or willowherb extract, which drastically reduces levels of bad bacteria on the skin's surface.
STRESS Stress not only plays an important role in our overall health but can also affect our skin.
How to de-stress your skin: Incorporate products containing calming ingredients such as Mallow and Cupuaçu butter. Additionally, a delicate clay mask will help restore and soothe your skin. However, perhaps one of the most significant things here is to remember how important it is to de-stress both inside and out. Self-care should form an integral part of our lives.
