Healthy skin can tell you a lot about the state of your overall health. From rashes and dryness to breakouts and enlarged pores, your skin is often the first indication that something is off in your body. Learn what common skin issues are telling you about your health and how to take care of your skin.
Acne: Stress & Hormones
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions and often indicates hormonal changes. While it’s normal to have breakouts during puberty or during pregnancy, acne that persists in adults may be a sign of a hormonal imbalance. In addition, excessive stress can cause breakouts due to the body’s production of cortisol, also known as the “stress hormone.” Stress-reduction techniques such as yoga and mindfulness can help reduce this type of acne.
Excess Oil Production: Hormonal Imbalances
Excess oil production is often linked to an imbalance of hormones, most commonly those secreted by the thyroid or adrenal glands. Imbalances in these areas can cause the sebaceous (oil) glands to be overactive, and produce too much oil. This can lead to oily skin, as well as lightening of normal hair color, thinning hair, or even male pattern baldness. If you have symptoms of too much oil on the skin it’s worth speaking to your doctor about further testing for underlying hormone imbalances.
Dry Skin: Vitamin Deficiencies or Liver Problems
Dry skin may also be indicative of a vitamin deficiency, particularly deficiencies in A, C and E vitamins. These vitamins help to replenish and rejuvenate the skin, so when they’re lacking in your diet, the skin may become dry and prone to irritation. The liver plays an important role in hormone regulation too and if it’s not functioning properly (something to ask your doctor about if you suspect other symptoms), the sebaceous glands may become inactive leading to deficient oil production with drier skin as a result.
Eczema: Allergies, Stress & Food Sensitivities
Eczema is a skin condition which can be linked to allergies, sensitivities and stress. Common allergy triggers such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mould and other environmental factors can cause inflammation of the skin. Certain foods like peanuts or tree nuts may also trigger an eczema outbreak. Stress has also been known to cause outbreaks as our bodies produce more histamine when under stress, leading to inflammation of the skin.
Sunspots and Aging Spots: Sign of Sun Damage and Poor Diet
Sunspots, or hyperpigmentation are linked to long-term sun exposure and often caused by UV radiation. Not only that but skin spots can also be related to excess sugar in our diets which binds to collagen and elastin in the skin’s layers. Vitamin C is key in preventing these skin darkening issues as it battles free radical damage caused by the sun’s rays. Eating foods rich in vitamin C such as citrus fruits, tomatoes and fresh leafy greens helps protect your skin from damage.