Hi Lykkers, Let's start with a little honesty: most of us think of blood pressure as a heart health issue. You hear those numbers — 120 over 80 — and think, "Cool, my heart's fine."

But what if I told you that your skin might be telling you something about your blood pressure… and vice versa?

"Healthy skin starts with healthy circulation. When your blood vessels are strong, your skin shows it — glowing from within." — Dr. Amira Hassan, Dermatologist & Cardiovascular Health Specialist.

Yep, it's true — your glowing (or not-so-glowing) skin and those blood pressure readings might be more connected than you think.

Let's get into the surprising (and useful) link between blood pressure and skin health, especially for women. Because taking care of your skin isn't just about creams — it starts from the inside out.

Blood Pressure 101: Why It Matters More Than You Think

Quick refresher: blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. Too high? That's hypertension. Too low? That's hypotension.

And while high or low blood pressure is often seen as a heart or brain concern, your skin is also directly affected. Why? Because skin — just like every other body part — relies on a healthy blood supply.

How High Blood Pressure Affects Your Skin

Let's talk about hypertension first. Chronic high blood pressure can quietly damage your blood vessels over time. And guess what?

Your skin has thousands of tiny blood vessels — they're like little highways bringing oxygen and nutrients to the surface.

Here's how high BP can mess with that system:

1. Weakened Blood Vessels = Redness and Sensitivity

When blood vessels are under constant pressure, they can weaken or even burst — especially in the face. This may lead to broken capillaries, redness on face, and a more reactive skin barrier.

2. Slower Wound Healing

Poor circulation caused by high BP can slow down your skin's ability to repair itself — from pimples to cuts to inflammation. You may notice your skin takes longer to bounce back from irritation.

3. Dry, Dull Complexion

When blood flow is compromised, so is your skin's supply of oxygen and nutrients. That can leave your skin looking dry, tired, or dull, even with your full skincare routine.

Low Blood Pressure: Also a Skin Disruptor

Now let's flip the script. Low blood pressure (hypotension) can also cause skin-related symptoms, especially when it limits circulation too much.

You might notice:

- Pale or cold skin, especially on your hands and feet

- Dark circles under the eyes (due to slow blood flow)

- Dizziness and fatigue, which can show on your face before anywhere else

In extreme cases, hypotension may even cause the skin to appear mottled or uneven in color — definitely something to watch.

Medications and Skin Reactions

Some blood pressure medications (especially diuretics or beta-blockers) can affect the skin too. Common side effects include:

- Photosensitivity (easier sunburns)

- Rashes or itching

- Dryness or flakiness

If you're on BP meds and notice skin changes, always talk to your doctor. Don't stop your meds — but don't ignore your skin either.

What Women Can Do: Inside and Out

Here's the good news: your skin and your blood pressure can both benefit from the same healthy habits. Win-win, right?

Try these:

Stay hydrated – good for blood flow and skin elasticity

Eat a balanced diet – leafy greens, omega-3s, and fruits help regulate BP and nourish your skin

Exercise regularly – even walking helps circulation

Avoid excessive salt and sugar – both can trigger inflammation and spike BP

Manage stress – chronic stress affects both blood pressure and causes skin breakouts or dullness

And of course — monitor your BP regularly. Especially if you're 40+, pregnant, or have a family history of hypertension.

Final Thoughts

So next time your skin's acting up — looking extra red, pale, tired, or just off — don't just reach for another product. Take a minute to check your blood pressure. Because sometimes, the answer isn't on the surface… it's flowing beneath it.

Take care of your heart, your health, and yes — your glow. Until next time, stay kind to your body and keep listening to what it's telling you.