Decoding Your Skin: 12 Things Your Skin Says About Your Health

by Dr. Nick Zyrowski December 18, 2023

Your skin is a remarkable organ, serving as the body's protective barrier against the external environment. Beyond its role in shielding us from the elements, your skin can also be a mirror reflecting your overall health. Various skin conditions and changes can be indicative of underlying health issues. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the ways your skin communicates valuable information about your well-being.

Understanding Your Skin: A Window to Your Health

The skin, our body's largest organ, is a complex and multifaceted marvel that goes far beyond its role as a protective barrier. Comprising three layers—epidermis, dermis, and subcutis—each with distinct functions, the skin is a dynamic organ that constantly interacts with the environment and reflects internal health.

At the surface, the epidermis acts as a shield against external threats, preventing dehydration and protecting against pathogens. Its outermost layer, the stratum corneum, gives the skin its texture and plays a pivotal role in maintaining moisture balance. Beneath the epidermis lies the dermis, housing crucial structures like blood vessels, hair follicles, and sweat glands. The appearance of our skin, including its color and texture, is influenced by blood flow and oxygenation. The subcutis, the deepest layer, provides insulation and energy storage.

Now that we understand how your skin can provide valuable clues about your overall health, let’s dive into some signs that your skin might indicate about your health.

12 Things Your Skin Says About Your Health

1. Dehydration:

Dry and flaky skin can be a sign of dehydration. When your body lacks sufficient water, your skin may appear less supple and moisturized.

2. Nutritional Deficiencies:

A lack of certain vitamins and minerals can manifest in skin issues. For example, vitamin C deficiency may lead to scurvy, causing rough and scaly skin.

3. Liver Function:

Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, can be a sign of liver problems. Liver conditions can affect the balance of chemicals in your body, leading to changes in skin color.

4. Hormonal Imbalances:

Hormonal changes can impact your skin. Acne, for instance, is often associated with hormonal fluctuations, especially during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.

5. Autoimmune Conditions:

Certain autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or psoriasis, can manifest in skin symptoms. These may include rashes, redness, or the formation of plaques.

6. Allergies:

Allergic reactions can cause various skin issues, from hives to redness and swelling. Identifying and avoiding allergens is crucial in managing these conditions.

7. Thyroid Disorders:

An underactive or overactive thyroid gland can affect your skin. Dry and coarse skin may be a symptom of hypothyroidism, while hyperthyroidism can cause warm, moist skin.

8. Diabetes:

Changes in skin texture and increased susceptibility to infections can be associated with diabetes. Diabetic individuals may be prone to skin conditions like diabetic dermopathy and necrobiosis lipoidica.

9. Stress:

Stress can take a toll on your skin, leading to conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or acne. Additionally, stress-induced behaviors like scratching or picking can worsen existing skin issues.

10. Heart and Circulatory Issues:

Poor circulation can contribute to skin issues. Skin that appears pale or bluish may indicate inadequate blood flow.

11. Kidney Function:

Kidney problems can sometimes be reflected in the skin. Conditions like kidney failure may lead to itching or changes in skin color.

12. Infections:

Skin infections, such as fungal infections or cellulitis, may indicate an underlying issue with the immune system or other health conditions.

If you notice persistent or concerning changes in your skin, we recommend you consult with a healthcare professional. However, maintaining good skincare practices, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle can contribute to overall skin health. Let us move on to ways we can improve our skin health naturally.

Natural Solutions for Glowing Skin

Improving your skin naturally involves adopting holistic approaches that address both internal and external factors. Remember that healthy skin isn’t just about lotions and potions. Instead, it is an external manifestation of the health (or lack of) within your body. Here are some best practices to support healthy, glowing skin:

Hydration:

Drink an adequate amount of water daily to maintain the moisture balance. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day.
Include hydrating foods in your diet, such as water-rich fruits and vegetables, to support skin hydration from within.

Enhancing Blood Flow and Oxygenation:

Regular exercise promotes healthy blood flow, enhancing oxygenation and nourishment to the skin. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise 5+ days of the week.
Include foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, to support overall skin health and combat oxidative stress.

Moisturizing:

Avoid over the counter skin lotions that contain chemicals such as artificial fragrances, BHA/BHT, petroleum, phthalates, and parabens
Opt to use a natural moisturizer, such as tallow, coconut oil, or shea butter

Balancing Hormones:

Adopt a balanced and nutritious diet with a focus on whole foods, including lean proteins, healthy fats, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Manage stress through practices such as meditation, prayer, or deep breathing exercises to help regulate hormonal fluctuations and improve skin conditions.

Metabolic Health:

Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise to support metabolic functions and prevent skin thickness or texture changes.
Ensure a well-rounded diet with essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals necessary for skin health.

Addressing Immune Responses and Sensitivities:

Identify and avoid potential allergens or irritants in skincare products, detergents, or environmental factors that may contribute to skin conditions.
Consume an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, to support the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Stress Management:

Prioritize stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, or hobbies, to mitigate the impact of chronic stress on your skin and overall well-being.

Remember, consistency is key when adopting natural approaches to improve your skin. Adding in one or more of these tips will have compounding effects, both for skin health and overall health.

Skin Health in Review

In essence, your skin is an intricate communicator, providing vital insights into your overall well-being. Paying attention to its signals allows for early detection of potential health issues, emphasizing the importance of holistic health practices that address both internal and external factors. As we decode the language of our skin, we gain a valuable tool for understanding and optimizing our health.

References :

1. Huang Z, Liu Y, Qi G, Brand D, Zheng SG. Role of Vitamin A in the Immune System. J Clin Med. 2018 Sep 6;7(9):258. doi: 10.3390/jcm7090258. PMID: 30200565; PMCID: PMC6162863.

2. Telang PS. Vitamin C in dermatology. Indian Dermatol Online J. 2013 Apr;4(2):143-6. doi: 10.4103/2229-5178.110593. PMID: 23741676; PMCID: PMC3673383.

3. Malhotra K, Butler JS, Benton A, Molloy S. Progressive foot drop caused by below-knee compression stocking after spinal surgery. Oxf Med Case Reports. 2016 Sep 8;2016(9):omw075. doi: 10.1093/omcr/omw075. PMID: 27617106; PMCID: PMC5015421.

4. Shigekuni Hosogi,et al. An Inhibitor of Na+/H+ Exchanger (NHE), Ethyl-Isopropyl Amiloride (EIPA), Diminishes Proliferation of MKN28 Human Gastric Cancer Cells by Decreasing the Cytosolic Cl- Concentration via DIDS-Sensitive Pathways. Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry 1 November 2012; 30 (5): 1241–1253. https://doi.org/10.1159/000343315

5. Biswas HH, Kaidarova Z, Garratty G, Gibble JW, Newman BH, Smith JW, Ziman A, Fridey JL, Sacher RA, Murphy EL; HTLV Outcomes Study. Increased all-cause and cancer mortality in HTLV-II infection. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 2010 Jul;54(3):290-6. doi: 10.1097/QAI.0b013e3181cc5481. PMID: 20512047; PMCID: PMC2891114.

6. Faggiano A, Milone F, Ramundo V, Chiofalo MG, Ventre I, Giannattasio R, Severino R, Lombardi G, Colao A, Pezzullo L. A decrease of calcitonin serum concentrations less than 50 percent 30 minutes after thyroid surgery suggests incomplete C-cell tumor tissue removal. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010 Sep;95(9):E32-6. doi: 10.1210/jc.2010-0045. Epub 2010 Jun 9. PMID: 20534767.

7. Stice E, Shaw H. Eating disorder prevention programs: a meta-analytic review. Psychol Bull. 2004 Mar;130(2):206-27. doi: 10.1037/0033-2909.130.2.206. PMID: 14979770.

8. Chen Y, Lyga J. Brain-skin connection: stress, inflammation and skin aging. Inflamm Allergy Drug Targets. 2014;13(3):177-90. doi: 10.2174/1871528113666140522104422. PMID: 24853682; PMCID: PMC4082169.

9. 19 Chemicals to Avoid in Skin Care