Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and it can tell you a lot about your overall health. While we tend to focus on our hair and face when we think about skincare, the truth is that just as much of our attention should be devoted to the health of the skin on our entire body. It's easy to look good when it comes to makeup and hairstyles but making sure that all parts of your body are healthy can be more difficult. Luckily, there are some tell-tale signs that can help you identify whether or not something may be wrong with your skin:
Discover our latest podcast
Dry skin
According to Mayo Clinic, dry skin is usually caused by water loss or dehydration. If you consume plenty of water, your skin will be hydrated and smooth. You may also have an underlying health condition that's causing dryness, like diabetes, so if you notice a sudden change in the skin, consult your doctor.
Oily skin
This is not all bad news: if you're blessed with this type of complexion, you'll appreciate the fact that your pores are less visible and there's no need for heavy foundation. But if you have very oily skin and find yourself constantly blotting off shine, consult a dermatologist as it might be triggered by factors such as genetics, hormones, or diet according to Healthline.
Flaky skin
If you're a regular skin-scratcher, you may be wondering what's causing your skin to look so scaly - dryness being one possibility, eczema, and psoriasis among others, says Cleveland Clinic.
Exposure to harsh weather or chemicals could be contributing as well, especially if you live in a cold climate or spend all day at work with machines that emit fumes into the air around them (like hair salons). If this sounds familiar, remember to use moisturizer often when outdoors—and always wear gloves when working around machines!
Irritated red skin
Redness in the face is a common sign of inflammation.Inflammation is often caused by allergies, stress and/or food sensitivities; all of these can cause irritation to the skin that results in redness. If you're always red in the cheeks (or nose), it's time to see a doctor.
A simple blood test can determine if you have an allergy or sensitivity to certain foods such as peanuts, soybeans or eggs that might be causing your symptoms. It's also important to rule out other possible causes like rosacea or acne rosacea before making a diagnosis based on what your face looks like alone!
Disclaimer: The contents of this article: text, graphics, images, and other materials contained, are strictly for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice, or treatment. Please always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with all the questions that you have related to, or about, a medical condition.
Sources used:
Mayo Clinic: Dry Skin
Healthline: 7 Causes of Oily Skin
Cleveland Clinic: Peeling Skin
