Your skin is a reflection of your inner health. Various health conditions can also present themselves in the form of rashes, splotches, patches, and more. The changes on your skin mean that your body is signaling to you that something needs to change. In this article, we’ll discuss what your skin is trying to tell you and how to respond to these signals.
Rashes
Rashes can be caused by minor skin irritations and underlying medical conditions. If the rash persists, you may have dermatitis. Also, red and itchy rashes, accompanied by blistered skin, can be a telltale sign of celiac disease. A butterfly-shaped rash that spreads across the cheeks is sometimes linked to lupus.
Dry Skin
Dry skin can look bad and feel bad. It is usually a result of hot showers, harsh soaps, and dry weather. However, when it is followed by inflammation and itchiness, it can be a symptom of eczema or psoriasis. These conditions are associated with heart conditions, depression, and diabetes.
Uncommon Hair Growth
This is an issue affecting many women. If you notice hair growing out of an uncommon area in your body, this can be a sign of polycystic ovarian syndrome — a hormonal disease common among women in their reproductive age.
Moles
Small changes in your skin, moles that weren’t there before, can be signs of skin cancer. This especially goes for moles of irregular shapes that vary in color. These skin changes are related to melanoma (a type of skin cancer).
Acne
Acne, a frequent skin issue, can have many triggers. While they often appear in teenagers, adults can have this problem as well. The cause may lie in poor diet, hormonal imbalance, and stress. The latter especially stimulates hormones that cause acne.
Constant Flushing and Redness
Flushing and redness can be a symptom of rosacea — a skin condition that can’t be eliminated. Fortunately, however, rosacea outbreaks can be minimized by avoiding common triggers such as warm temperatures, direct sunlight, alcohol, and spicy foods.
Puffy Eyelids
This annoying appearance can be caused by allergies. When accompanied by rashes, it can be a symptom of contact dermatitis. Puffy eyelids can appear as a consequence of exposure to some irritants such as fragrances, cosmetics, soaps, and dust.
Dark Patches
Brown or grayish patches on the face can be a symptom of melasma. This pigmentation is usually experienced by women, especially during pregnancy. Other than the aesthetic side, melasma is fairly harmless.
Visible Veins
Visible veins may be indicators of poor circulatory health. Spider veins (varicose veins), on the other hand, can indicate more serious health problems with your blood flow. Visible face veins could be signs of excessive straining or rosacea.
Bruising
Cuts and blows will normally result in bruises. However, if the bruising appears too easily and constantly for no obvious reason, there may be an underlying bleeding disorder that requires an immediate visit to your doctor. The visit should be urgent if the bruises are followed by extreme pain and swelling.
How to Respond to Your Skin’s Alarm Signals
Consult your doctor if you have any persistent skin changes. You may need to do some tests to see if there is any underlying health condition that your skin is trying to show you. Generally, here are some things you can do to improve your overall health and skin appearance:
Take Good Care of Your Skin
A proper skincare routine that suits your skin type and age can do wonders for your “exterior.” It should include double cleansing, exfoliation, facial massages, etc.
Take Probiotics and Prebiotics
Probiotics have great potential in both the treatment and prevention of various skin disorders, including acne, atopic dermatitis, allergic inflammation, UV-induced skin damage, and skin hypersensitivity. Prebiotics keep the skin microbiome healthy. Check the differences between prebiotics and probiotics to see which ones to take and when.
Get Enough Sleep and Get Your Stress Under Control
Good mental health is essential for healthy skin. Engage in stress-reducing activities (yoga, meditation, me-time, deep breathing, etc.) to get your mind in check. Try to get at least seven hours of quality sleep every night.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet that includes plenty of fruits and veggies is the key to healthy skin, along with hydration. Avoid highly processed and fried foods because they can cause flare-ups.
Final Word
Celebrity skincare expert Renee Rouleau said that you should be good to your skin because “you’ll wear it every day for the rest of your life.” Remember that as you set up habits and routines that will help keep you healthy and your skin radiant. It’s worth all the effort.
Sarah is a life enjoyer, positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows.
