Ways Your Skin Reveals Underlying Health Issues

Cracked Lips

Visibly dry and cracked lips can be caused by more than the weather or constant lip-licking. Cracked lips can occur due to an allergic reaction to lip products and makeup, and can also be a symptom of inadequate dietary niacin or zinc intake, which is most commonly found in vegan and vegetarian diets. High concentrations of niacin and zinc are found in animal products such as chicken, fish, or liver, hence why those who follow a plant-based diet may be lacking these nutrients. Another common cause is perleche, a fungal infection associated with a vitamin deficiency or chronic illness, and can have specific symptoms such as redness, scaling, or fissuring around the lip region.

Visible Veins

Although it may look unpleasant on the legs, arms, and even the face, visible veins are an important indicator of one's circulatory health, and can even signify blood clots. Varicose veins or spider veins on the legs can be the body telling the individual there are deeper issues associated with blood flow due to age, genetics, weight, and other health concerns occurring. For instance, spider veins on the face can indicate rosacea or excessive straining and stress on the body, and varicose veins left untreated may increase the pressure on the vein. This causes a worsening of the swelling and leg cramps, as well as phlebitis, which is inflammation and blood clots.