Ever wonder what your skin is telling you? We all know that our skin can be a reflection of how we’re feeling, but did you know it can also tell us about our health and well-being? Your skin has a lot to say; you just have to know how to listen. A healthy body will show up on the outside as well. This article will give you some advice on looking out for the things your skin is saying about your health.
Discoloration
Hyperpigmentation is characterized by dark spots on the skin due to sun damage and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Hormonal imbalances can also cause it, typically appearing on the face, chest, and arms. Several different types of discolorations can occur on the surface of the skin. Treatments help eliminate hyperpigmented areas, such as bleaching creams and chemical peels. Another type of discoloration is when your skin appears to be red or blotchy. This can be from vasodilation, where the widening of blood vessels affects the skin’s appearance. Other reasons for this could include inflammation in the skin brought on by allergic reactions or irritants like pollen or infection with bacteria, viruses, or fungi. This type of discoloration is typically associated with rashes and lesions, so you should see your doctor if it doesn’t go away after a few days.
Dry Skin
Dry skin can be from several factors such as age, lifestyle, and lack of hydration. Our bodies produce less oil as we age, and our skin’s natural ability to retain moisture decreases. Some people have more oil than needed, which can lead to acne. Dry weather or harsh soaps can also cause dry skin and lead to irritation that may appear red and itchy. If your skin is dry and itchy, you can use moisturizers to help ease the discomfort.
Dull Skin
If your skin isn’t glowing, it may be telling you that something is wrong. Dullness can be from sun damage and smoking which can break down collagen. This reduces its elasticity and makes it more likely to develop wrinkles. Other factors that can lead to dullness are dehydration, poor diet, hormone fluctuations, and illness. If your skin is dull, you should drink more water and eat more fruits and vegetables to help get that glow back into your skin.
Breakouts
If your skin is breaking out more than usual or red and inflamed, then it could be a sign of hormonal changes in your body. Breakouts can also be from stress so if they are occurring more than usual, try practicing some form of stress relief. If you notice that these are becoming more frequent or lasting longer, then it might be time to see a dermatologist for some advice.
Rashes & Hives
Many things can cause rashes and hives, so it’s best to see your doctor if they aren’t going away. Hives can be from allergies, stress, or even an allergic reaction to something you’ve recently come into contact with. You should figure out what is causing the inflammation to get rid of it quickly and easily. Rashes are more difficult because they could have many causes, from fungal infections to stress. They can be a sign of a more severe condition in some cases, so always check with your doctor if you think it might be something worse.
Oily Skin
Your body begins producing more oil when you eat foods that trigger this to happen. This often occurs during perimenopause and menopause because of fluctuating hormones, so try to cut away from junk food and see if that helps with the excess oil production. Oily skin can also be accompanied by breakouts, leading you to believe that your skin needs more cleaning when it’s telling you to relax a little.
Conclusion
Your skin can be a tricky thing to read. It can be hard to know what’s causing it with all the different symptoms that can show up. If your skin is giving you strange signals, then make sure to check in with your doctor before trying anything at home. Frequently, what seems like a skin issue can be something more serious. So always check with the experts to find the best solution for your specific needs.