Copper: an essential trace element for preparing the skin for sun exposure

What is copper used for?

Copper is essential for the synthesis of melanin, the natural pigment that gives colour to the skin, hair, and eyes. Melanin plays a protective role against damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, thereby reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage such as premature ageing and skin cancers.

Roles and benefits of copper on health

• Antibacterial and antiviral action: Copper possesses antibacterial and antiviral properties that make it useful during colds or flu-like conditions.

• Support for hematopoiesis: It promotes the absorption of iron, essential for the synthesis of hemoglobin in red blood cells, thereby playing an anti-anemic role.

• Antioxidant: Copper helps fight cellular ageing by preventing the formation of free radicals.

• Immune system reinforcement: It is also crucial for strengthening the immune system by participating in antibody production.

• Bone and cartilage health: Copper plays a role in bone mineralisation and cartilage maintenance, thereby supporting overall skeletal health.

• Melanin production: As an essential cofactor in melanin synthesis, copper is directly involved in skin pigmentation and protection against sun damage.

The importance of melanin for sun protection

Melanin absorbs and disperses UV rays, protecting skin cells from the damage caused by these harmful rays. This not only helps prevent sunburn but also maintains the integrity of the DNA in skin cells, reducing the risk of mutations and UV-associated cancers.

In which foods can you find copper to boost melanin?

For those preparing for sun exposure, particularly during summer months or in high-exposure environments, it is beneficial to ensure adequate copper levels in their diet. Copper is abundantly found in foods such as liver, spirulina, mushrooms, dark chocolate, snails, cashews, coffee, and oysters. A varied diet generally covers the daily copper needs without difficulty.

How to reach the recommended daily intake of copper?

The recommended daily intake of copper is 1.3 mg for men and 1 mg for women. These requirements can easily be met through a balanced diet including the copper-rich foods mentioned above. For those who may find it difficult to consume enough of these foods, dietary supplements such as our Sun Gummies can be a practical and effective alternative.

Precautions and side effects

While rare, copper deficiency can occur in at-risk individuals, such as premature infants or those with digestive diseases. Conversely, excessive copper intake, especially above 5 mg per day, can lead to liver problems. The consumption of substances such as iron, zinc, vitamin C, and alcohol can also interfere with copper absorption.

Copper in our dietary supplements

Our Sun Gummies contain copper, specially formulated to prepare and protect your skin during sun exposure. They provide a convenient and tasty way to supplement your daily copper intake while enjoying its multiple health benefits for your skin.

By incorporating copper into your daily routine through a balanced diet and our dietary supplements, you can enjoy its numerous beneficial properties for skin health and beauty, especially during the summer months.

Copper through the centuries

In ancient times, copper was recognized for its antiviral and antibacterial properties. The Greeks and Egyptians used copper to treat various infectious diseases and skin eruptions.