The connection between skin health and cardiovascular health

OUR SKIN and cardiovascular system might seem like separate entities, each with its own distinct function, but in reality, they are intimately connected. Both play critical roles in overall health, and recent research has revealed fascinating links between the health of your skin and the health of your heart. From the appearance of your skin to the way it reacts to environmental changes, what happens on the outside often reflects what’s happening within your body, including your cardiovascular system.

This crucial interplay between skin and heart health will also be a topic of focus at the upcoming HIC International Masters of Medicine Conference under the theme ‘Her Heart Matters’. The 2025 conference will explore cardiovascular disease in women, with a special emphasis on the relationship between menopause and women’s heart health, as well as preventative strategies to improve outcomes. This is a timely reminder of the importance of viewing health holistically and understanding the interconnectedness of various bodily systems.

In this article, we will explore the intriguing connection between skin health and cardiovascular health, shedding light on how taking care of one can benefit the other.

1. THE SKIN AS A MIRROR OF CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH

The skin is the body’s largest organ and serves as a key indicator of overall health. Changes in skin appearance – such as premature ageing, discolouration, or unusual rashes –can sometimes point to underlying systemic issues, including cardiovascular problems.

• Signs of poor circulation: Healthy blood flow is essential for maintaining vibrant, youthful skin. Poor circulation can result in skin that appears dull, pale, or discoloured. Conditions such as varicose veins, spider veins, or a mottled appearance of the skin (particularly on the legs or feet) can indicate poor circulation, which is often linked to cardiovascular disease.

• The role of inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a common thread between skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne, and cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). The presence of skin conditions that are inflammatory in nature may be an early warning sign that inflammation is affecting the cardiovascular system as well.

2. HOW CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH AFFECTS SKIN AGEING

A healthy cardiovascular system ensures that blood flows smoothly, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the skin. When the heart is not functioning optimally, it can result in reduced circulation to the skin, leading to premature ageing and a decline in skin health.

• Reduced collagen production: Collagen, a protein that provides structural support to the skin, relies on adequate circulation to remain abundant and effective. A lack of proper circulation can impair this process, making the skin thinner, less elastic, and more prone to wrinkles and sagging.

• Dull skin tone: Healthy circulation plays a key role in maintaining an even, glowing skin tone. Poor blood flow can cause the skin to appear pale or ashen, with less vibrancy.

3. CARDIOVASCULAR RISK FACTORS AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE SKIN

Several cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and obesity, also negatively impact the skin. For instance:

• High blood pressure can reduce skin elasticity and contribute to rosacea.

• High cholesterol impairs blood flow and oxygenation, leading to conditions like xanthomas.

• Smoking accelerates skin ageing and increases cardiovascular risks.

4. IMPROVING BOTH SKIN AND HEART HEALTH: LIFESTYLE FACTORS

Lifestyle choices profoundly affect both skin and cardiovascular health. Exercise, a heart-healthy diet, proper hydration, stress management, and quitting smoking are all measures that benefit both systems. For example, regular exercise enhances circulation and collagen production, while a diet rich in antioxidants improves both heart and skin health.

The connection between skin health and cardiovascular health is undeniable. Healthy skin is often a reflection of a healthy heart, and vice versa. Understanding this relationship can motivate individuals to take better care of their bodies, focusing not just on the external, but also on the internal systems that support overall well-being. By adopting heart-healthy habits, we can not only reduce our risk of cardiovascular disease, but also promote glowing, youthful skin. Prioritising both cardiovascular and skin health is a holistic approach to wellness that benefits every aspect of our lives.

Dr Dainia Baugh, MD, FRCP, is chairman of the Heart Institute of the Caribbean Foundation and an expert in aesthetic and integrative medicine. She will be presenting at the Masters of Medicine Conference. Her insights promise to be invaluable for those looking to bridge the gap between aesthetics and cardiovascular health. To learn more about the conference and its agenda, visit www.mastersofcardiology.com