February 13, 2025

American Heart Month: The Vital Connection Between Heart Health and Your Skin

By Tahani Williams, M.D.

February marks American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular health and the preventive measures we can take to reduce the risk of heart disease. While many people focus on diet and exercise as the primary ways to improve heart health, a lesser-known yet significant connection exists between cardiovascular function and skin health. Your skin is not only your body’s largest organ but also a critical indicator of internal wellness, including heart conditions.

So, what does that mean for you and your skin? This means that everything you apply to your skin can have a direct impact on your heart health.

This article explores the intricate relationship between heart health and skin health, the warning signs your skin may reveal about your heart, and the importance of using clean skincare products free from harmful chemicals that could contribute to systemic inflammation and cardiovascular disease.

How does your skin show indications of your heart health?

Your skin often serves as an external reflection of internal health. Cardiovascular diseases can manifest in dermatological symptoms, sometimes appearing before any other noticeable health concerns. Here are some of the ways your skin may signal heart problems:

1. Cyanosis: A Bluish Skin Tone

Cyanosis, characterized by a bluish or purplish discoloration of the skin, is a telltale sign of insufficient oxygenated blood flow. This can result from various cardiovascular conditions, such as congenital heart disease, heart failure, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (7).

2. Peripheral Edema: Swelling in the Lower Limbs

Fluid retention in the legs, ankles, and feet is a common symptom of congestive heart failure (CHF). When the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently, fluid builds up in the extremities, causing swelling. Over time, this can lead to skin thickening and ulcerations, particularly in severe cases (1).

3. Xanthelasma: Yellowish Cholesterol Deposits

Yellow, waxy patches on the eyelids, known as xanthelasma, are often linked to high cholesterol levels. These fatty deposits are a visible marker of potential atherosclerosis, a condition that increases the risk of stroke and heart attack (8).

4. Livedo Reticularis: Mottled Skin Patterns

A purplish, net-like pattern on the skin can indicate vascular disease or poor blood circulation. This condition is associated with embolic diseases and may indicate an underlying cardiovascular issue (6).

5. Splinter Hemorrhages and Osler’s Nodes

Small reddish-brown streaks under the fingernails (splinter hemorrhages) and tender red nodules on the fingers or toes (Osler’s nodes) are potential signs of infective endocarditis, an infection of the heart’s inner lining (9).

What ingredients in skincare can affect heart health?

Many personal care products contain chemicals that penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting overall health, including cardiovascular function. It is crucial to choose clean, dermatologist-recommended skincare to minimize exposure to harmful ingredients. Here are some ingredients to avoid:

1. Phthalates

Phthalates, commonly found in synthetic fragrances, disrupt the endocrine system and have been linked to hypertension and atherosclerosis. A study published in Environmental Research found that higher urinary phthalate levels correlated with increased blood pressure in children and adolescents. (2)

2. Parabens

Parabens are preservatives used in cosmetics to prevent bacterial growth, but they also possess estrogenic activity, which may contribute to hormonal imbalances and cardiovascular diseases (5).

3. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

This foaming agent, present in many cleansers and shampoos, can lead to skin irritation and systemic inflammation, both of which contribute to chronic conditions such as heart disease (4).

4. Propylene Glycol

A common ingredient in moisturizers and lotions, propylene glycol can enhance the penetration of other chemicals into the skin, potentially increasing systemic toxicity (3).

5. Balsam of Peru

This botanical ingredient, often used for its fragrance and medicinal properties, is a common skin irritant that can trigger inflammatory responses. Chronic inflammation is closely linked to vascular damage and increased heart disease risk (10).

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Skin and Heart Health

Heart health and skin health are deeply intertwined, and paying attention to dermatological signs can serve as an early warning system for cardiovascular disease. Equally important is selecting clean, dermatologist-recommended skincare to avoid harmful chemicals that may contribute to systemic inflammation and heart problems.

For those looking for clean, hypoallergenic, and clinically tested skincare, Cleure offers a range of skincare products free from parabens, phthalates, SLS, fragrance, and other irritants – ideal for individuals prioritizing both skin and heart health.

This American Heart Month, take a holistic approach to your well-being by making informed choices about both what you put into your body and what you put on your skin.

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