Earth-gray complexion: what does it say, what to do?

Complexion is directly related to health. It is no secret that only a healthy person can have a fresh, rich complexion. The slightest changes in the body's condition are immediately reflected on the skin, hair, and nails. If a gray complexion appears, this is a cause for concern. You should immediately consult a doctor and undergo diagnostics. There are practically no cases when an unnatural, earthy complexion does not indicate some structural or functional pathology in the body.

[ 1 ], [ 2 ]

Epidemiology

In 98% of cases, a change in complexion is associated with a disorder in the internal state of the body. Yellow complexion in 87% of cases is associated with a disorder in the liver, with jaundice. Gray complexion in 76% of cases indicates multiple pathologies in the body associated with metabolic disorders. In women, changes appear 2-3 times faster than in men, since women's skin is more sensitive to homeostasis disorders.

[ 3 ], [ 4 ], [ 5 ], [ 6 ]

Causes gray complexion

Usually this pathology indicates a disorder of the internal organs, endocrine disorders. Polluted environment, bad habits and poor nutrition often lead to a violation of the body's resistance, a decrease in the immune status, as a result of which skin problems arise. Disruption of normal metabolism, pigment pathologies, constant stress, neuropsychic overstrain also entail a violation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue.

The complexion can also change due to insufficient skin care, especially if the skin is oily. In this condition, the skin glands produce too much secretion, sebum accumulates in excess. This leads to thickening of the epidermis and a change in color. Failure to follow the daily routine, lack of sleep at night, a sedentary lifestyle also entail a change in the skin condition.

Risk factors

People living in large cities and metropolitan areas are at risk. The environment is most intensively polluted here, which affects human health and appearance. People who are subject to constant stress, work intensively, have a busy schedule, drink excessive amounts of coffee and alcohol are also at risk. If there is a lack of vitamins, the complexion changes dramatically, as well as with insufficient physical activity, smoking.

[ 7 ], [ 8 ], [ 9 ]

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis is based on the disruption of the normal functioning of the body at the cellular and tissue level. First, general metabolic processes are disrupted, then the structure and function of tissues and organs change. Toxins and metabolic products accumulate in the body, and the microflora changes. A deficiency of some substances and a lack of others develop, which leads to a general imbalance. Blood circulation and the removal of toxins are also disrupted. They enter the blood, spread throughout the body, and penetrate various types of tissue, including the skin. Pigmentation is disrupted, and the skin changes its shade.

[ 10 ], [ 11 ], [ 12 ], [ 13 ], [ 14 ]

Symptoms gray complexion

In medicine, this phenomenon is called dyschromia. This is a condition in which the color of the face changes. Most often, such changes are a consequence of metabolic disorders, dysfunction of internal organs. In order to eliminate the pathology, you need to find the cause. To do this, you need to undergo a comprehensive examination, then prescribe treatment in accordance with the pathology found. Contacting cosmetologists and dermatologists is usually ineffective, since the problem lies not in the condition of the upper layer of the skin, but in the deep layers of the body and internal organs. Blue and dark complexion is considered the most dangerous. Such shades can indicate a pathology that is life-threatening.

The appearance of any signs of changes in the skin condition, a change in shade, even a slight one, indicates the presence of pathology in the internal organs. It is impossible to say immediately, without examination, what changes exactly provoked dyschromia. Therefore, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible and undergo a comprehensive examination.

Pale gray complexion

Paleness usually indicates the presence of serious diseases that can be life-threatening. Most often, paleness is noted in the presence of diseases associated with blood dysfunction, vascular spasm, or circulatory disorders in general. A person can turn pale with the development of severe intoxication of the body, with many infectious diseases.

Often the appearance of a pale shade is associated with female diseases, such as endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, uterine bleeding. But often pallor also indicates the presence of cancerous tumors, peptic ulcer or severe heart disease (angina, defects, aneurysms, embolism). Internal bleeding, tuberculosis, severe infections, sepsis can also cause pallor.

The reason may be a lack of melanin, due to which the skin loses its brightness and natural shade. If separate spots of white color appear on the skin, vitiligo may be suspected. With a lack of certain substances, especially iron, vitamins, glucose, disruption of vascular activity, nervous and hormonal regulation of blood vessels, pallor develops.

Gray-green complexion

The acquisition of a greenish tint may indicate chronic fatigue, lack of sleep and fresh air, poor nutrition and dysfunction of internal organs. A greenish tint is also observed with dysfunction of the thyroid gland, cancer, HIV infection. Also, a long-term infectious process, sepsis, in which active inflammatory processes occur, accumulation of toxins and uncontrolled growth of infection, can cause a green complexion. If a person has intoxication, cirrhosis of the liver, or other disorders of the kidneys and liver, a greenish tint also appears.

Gray-yellow complexion

Yellow complexion is traditionally associated with jaundice, which is a severe liver disorder. Yellow color can also occur when bile synthesis is disrupted, with a large amount of bilirubin, which also increases with liver and kidney diseases. Increased hemoglobin levels can occur when red blood cells disintegrate. Such disintegration is most often a consequence of poisoning or Rh-conflict. Yellow tint occurs as a result of hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, liver failure.

The reason may be simpler – a person could have eaten a lot of carrots, which contain carotene. This substance gives the skin an orange tint.

Dark gray complexion

The appearance of a dark gray shade indicates renal and adrenal insufficiency, in which endocrine activity is disrupted. Also, a similar color can appear in case of digestive disorders, genitourinary system activity, sexual disorders and sexual dysfunctions.

If the gray shade covers the face unevenly, but in separate spots, this is most often associated with a disorder of the thyroid gland, more precisely - with hyperthyroidism. Such a complexion appears with severe dysbacteriosis, a disorder of the heart. Most often, such a pathology is accompanied by bacterial endocarditis, an increase in bacterial contamination of internal organs, sepsis. Systemic scleroderma, cutaneous porphyria and atherosclerosis can also lead to the occurrence of such a pathology.

[ 15 ]

Gray-blue complexion

Blue complexion is directly related to severe heart and lung diseases. Typically, such a pathology occurs with severe circulatory failure or oversaturation of the skin with carbon dioxide against the background of oxygen deficiency. Some drugs that affect the blood and hematopoietic organs can also lead to the appearance of a bluish tint. For example, such pathologies are associated with the intake or external use of silver preparations, which often indicates an overdose. This condition is called argyria, requires immediate cessation of silver therapy, otherwise there is a risk of damage to the bone marrow, eyes, liver and kidney failure develops, and the nervous system is damaged. Gray-blue complexion is typical for people whose professional activities are associated with silver processing.

Sometimes this color can indicate methemoglobinemia, a condition in which normal hemoglobin is replaced by damaged hemoglobin, which is unable to transport oxygen. This replacement usually occurs in cases of severe poisoning, or an overdose of paracetamol, sulfonamides, and nitrites. In some cases, methemoglobinemia can be a hereditary disease, with the bluish tint of the skin accompanying a person throughout life, starting from birth.

In severe anemia, toxic shock, pneumonia with the risk of developing pleurisy, severe bronchitis, pulmonary embolism, pneumothorax and heart defects, a blue tint also inevitably develops.

Gray complexion and dark circles under the eyes

A similar condition occurs with exhaustion of the body, sudden weight loss, lack of nutrients and vitamins in food, when consuming low-quality products. Also, similar changes can occur as a result of the development of oncological processes, blood leukemia and diseases of the digestive system. Smoking, alcohol abuse, narcotic and psychotropic drugs, antidepressants can provoke a blue complexion with bruises. Long-term use of strong painkillers and the recovery period after severe inflammatory, infectious diseases can be accompanied by such pathology. Also, bruises can appear due to impaired blood function, its coagulability, increased fragility of blood vessels, in the postoperative and postpartum period.

Gray complexion in men, women and children

In men, this shade is most often a sign of leukemia or oncological diseases, overwork, infectious diseases. Also, gray color and bruises indicate pathology of the kidneys, liver, disorders of the genitourinary system, various malignant and benign neoplasms, prostate adenoma, alcohol abuse.

In women, a gray complexion can be a sign of disorders in the genitourinary system and reproductive organs. This shade appears with benign and malignant processes in the body, with dysfunction of the adrenal glands and ovaries, with cysts and dysfunction of the ovaries, and endometrial pathology.

In a child, a gray complexion most often indicates a disruption in the functioning of the kidneys and liver, hepatitis, acute infectious and inflammatory processes, metabolic disorders, hormonal function, as well as recent severe inflammatory and infectious diseases, pathologies of the heart, lungs, and circulatory system.

Complications and consequences

Such a harmless pathology as a change in complexion can lead to serious consequences and complications. If you do not conduct a timely examination, do not identify the cause of the pathology, and do not eliminate it, you can miss many serious diseases. A change in complexion is only a consequence of the underlying disease, one of the symptoms that cannot be ignored. Without paying attention to the change in complexion, you can miss serious liver, kidney, and heart disorders. You can miss the early stages of the oncological and inflammatory process, due to which these pathologies will develop into more severe pathologies, advanced stages.

[ 16 ], [ 17 ], [ 18 ], [ 19 ]

Diagnostics gray complexion

If an abnormal shade of the face appears, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible. First, you need to see a therapist. He will conduct a general examination, collect anamnesis, and, if necessary, prescribe laboratory tests. Based on the results of the analysis, a preliminary diagnosis can be made. If necessary, the doctor will prescribe additional consultations with specialists. They, in turn, will conduct a general and special examination, prescribe the necessary laboratory and instrumental studies.

[ 20 ], [ 21 ], [ 22 ], [ 23 ]

Tests

It is often quite difficult to determine the cause, since they can be different and combined. In general, you can imagine what kind of tests will be required for different manifestations of the disease. Thus, with increased pallor of the face, a general blood test, determination of reticulocytes, coagulogram and liver tests will be required.

If the skin has a yellow tint, you will need to consult an infectious disease specialist, additional tests for dysbacteriosis, bacteriological cultures, and a number of instrumental studies. Usually, tests are taken for viral hepatitis, to determine the immune status. Depending on the type of pathology, further treatment is carried out by a hematologist or gastroenterologist.

[ 24 ], [ 25 ]

Instrumental diagnostics

Green skin tone requires, first of all, a consultation with a gastroenterologist. Usually, he conducts a general examination, after which he prescribes a gastroscopy. This is the most accurate and informative method. With its help, you can examine the walls of internal organs, carefully study the condition of the mucous membranes, the stomach cavity. The advantage of the method is that it can be used to take a biopsy test if there is a suspicion of an oncological process. You can take a scraping to determine the intestinal microflora and Helicobacter bacteria, which are the causative agents of gastritis and ulcers.

Additionally, an ultrasound may be prescribed, which will show the condition and size of the organs from a different angle, allowing you to study not only the esophagus and intestines, but also the liver, pancreas, spleen, and other organs. Ultrasound can track many processes in dynamics, for example, you can track the features of peristalsis and motility.

To diagnose red and blue colors, ultrasound of the heart, electrocardiogram, and other studies are prescribed, which are used to obtain a complete clinical picture of cardiac pathologies.

Differential diagnosis

It is quite difficult to make a diagnosis. A change in facial color can be a sign of various diseases. It is necessary to first determine in which system the pathology is observed. The general picture can be obtained from clinical tests, a biochemical blood test, and an immunogram. Based on the examination and laboratory data, the patient is referred to a highly specialized doctor for further diagnostics. For example, if a pathology of the respiratory system is detected, further studies are carried out by pulmonologists and phthisiatricians, in case of pathology of the digestive system, a gastroenterologist is involved in treatment, in case of cardiac pathology - a cardiologist.

Treatment gray complexion

Treatment is a complex and labor-intensive process. It depends on what pathology caused the disease. First of all, etiological therapy is carried out, aimed at eliminating the cause of the disease. So, if the cause was a bacterial infection, a course of antibiotic therapy is prescribed, in case of a viral infection, treatment with antiviral drugs is carried out. If a heart pathology is detected, treatment is carried out by a cardiologist, if a pathology of the kidneys and urinary tract is detected, a nephrologist is engaged in treatment, etc.

After the main disease is cured, normalization of the main functions and restorative therapy are carried out. For example, if the microbiocenosis was disturbed, therapy aimed at restoring the microflora is carried out, if necessary, immunomodulatory therapy is carried out, the normal biochemical cycle and metabolism are restored. Additionally, a diet and vitamin therapy may be prescribed.

At the third stage, we proceed directly to symptomatic therapy, during which the main pathologies that have arisen on the skin are eliminated. Here, a consultation with a dermatologist or cosmetologist will be required. The doctor examines the skin, conducts the necessary tests and selects the appropriate course of treatment, if it is still necessary. Often, having cured the main disease, the signs of skin damage also disappear, the face acquires a natural shade.

At the cosmetologist's appointment, he cleanses the face. For this, a steam bath, special masks, chemical or biological peels are usually used. These procedures make it possible to exfoliate the upper layer of the epidermis, due to which the skin is renewed and restored faster. At the second stage, mechanical cleaning is carried out, during which the pores are opened, special pore cleansing is carried out, and impurities are removed.

Then the skin nutrition and blood supply are improved. Various methods are used for this: masks, mesotherapy, microcurrent therapy, injection methods, introduction of vitamin preparations of amino acids. Cryotherapy procedures have a positive effect on the skin condition - massage with liquid nitrogen, which promotes skin regeneration, its rejuvenation, elimination of scars and cicatrices. The complexion improves significantly.

How to get rid of and remove gray complexion?

In order to remove the gray complexion, you need to eliminate the cause that causes it. Otherwise, no cosmetic procedure will have the desired effect. You need to go to see a therapist. He will prescribe the necessary tests, if necessary, send you for a consultation with other specialists. Only after undergoing a comprehensive examination, you can get an accurate diagnosis and choose the appropriate treatment. After this, you need to undergo a full course of treatment. Usually, after eliminating the cause, the complexion improves. If this is not enough, only at this stage can you contact a dermatologist and cosmetologist for local cosmetic procedures.

Observing a daily routine, eating a balanced diet, giving up bad habits, drinking enough fluids and doing regular physical exercise will also help to remove the gray complexion. Such health systems as qigong and hatha yoga, breathing practices, relaxation and meditation complexes have proven themselves well.

Medicines

It is important to understand that medications are not prescribed without control. You need to know the cause of the disease, imagine the clinical picture of what is happening in the body, and only then can you select the appropriate drugs. Otherwise, they will not only be ineffective, but also harmful. With uncontrolled and incorrect use, various side effects are possible, and even worsening of the condition. It is important to take precautions - in no case self-medicate, take any drugs only after prior consultation with a doctor.

If a bacterial infection, dysbacteriosis or skin mite - demodex is detected, an antibacterial drug - erythromycin is used. It is recommended to take 1 tablet 2-3 times a day, after meals.

In case of metabolic disorders and vitamin deficiency, medobiotin is prescribed - a vitamin-mineral complex designed specifically to normalize the condition of the skin, hair, nails. Take 1 tablet per day for a month.

When wet rashes appear on the skin, pustules against the background of skin color changes, use levomycetin ointment. It has an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect, dries, eliminates the rash. Apply 2-3 times a day, spreading a thin layer on the skin. The skin should be pre-cleaned.

If the body is contaminated with slags and toxins, as well as if there are signs of intoxication, enterosgel is prescribed. This is a sorbent that removes toxins from the body, purifies the blood, normalizes the body's condition, and improves well-being. Take 1 tablespoon of the product, stir in a glass of water, and drink in the morning on an empty stomach. The course of treatment is from 7 to 14 days.

Vitamins

In any illness, including illnesses of unknown etiology, the body needs vitamins. If a change in complexion is detected, the following vitamins in daily doses will be useful:

Vitamin PP – 60 mg

Vitamin H – 150 mcg

Vitamin C – 500 mg

Vitamin A – 2400 mcg

Vitamin E – 45 mg.

Physiotherapy treatment

The most effective physiotherapeutic procedures are cryotherapy, mesotherapy, laser treatment, ultrasound, biorevitalization, bioreinforcement. These procedures are carried out by a cosmetologist according to indications.

Folk remedies

Traditional medicine has many remedies that are used to normalize complexion. Both external and internal remedies have proven themselves well.

For external use, various decoctions are used for washing, frozen ice for wiping the face, and lotions.

A decoction of chamomile and calendula is used not only for a dull, gray complexion, but also for the appearance of comedones and inflammatory processes on the skin, scars and erosions. To prepare the decoction, take 5 tablespoons of chamomile herb and the same amount of calendula, pour a liter of water, let it brew for half an hour. Then wait until the water acquires a warm, comfortable temperature, wash your face without using soap or washing gel.

To refresh your face and give it a light, fresh shade, take 1 thick aloe leaf, squeeze out the juice and wipe your face like a lotion 2-3 times a day.

Ice cubes give the skin a soft, natural look, eliminate gray and yellow tint. To make ice, prepare a decoction of flax seeds. Pour one tablespoon of seeds with a glass of water, let it brew for a day. After the product cools down, pour into molds, put in the freezer to freeze. Wipe your face after washing 2 times a day.

Herbal treatment

Herbs have a positive effect not only on the skin, but also on the body as a whole. They are used both externally and internally.

To normalize the microflora and stabilize the gastrointestinal tract, take a mint decoction. It is useful for women, but contraindicated for men. Mint contains female hormones, and therefore normalizes the female hormonal system, has a calming effect on the body. The internal environment of the body is normalized, and accordingly, the external space is also normalized. The skin becomes lighter, tighter, and acquires a natural blush. To prepare the decoction, take 1-2 tablespoons of mint, pour a glass of water, and drink at one time. You can drink 4-5 glasses a day. You can add honey to taste. Mint can also be added as a flavoring to regular tea and drunk throughout the day.

A decoction of sage is useful for washing. Take 2-3 tablespoons of sage, pour 1 liter of water. Let it brew. Then strain, wait until the product cools to room temperature, wash. After washing, do not rub your face, you can only lightly blot. Lavender infusion improves complexion. Take about 50 grams of lavender leaves, pour 100 grams of vodka or alcohol. Let it brew for 7 days. Then wipe your face twice a day.

Homeopathy

When using homeopathic remedies, you need to take precautions: use them only after prior consultation with a doctor. Homeopathy, despite its relative safety, has numerous side effects. Thus, overdose, drug incompatibility, allergic reactions are possible. In order not to worsen the condition, it must be effectively included in the complex therapy.

• Ointment from medicinal hops

The ointment can be purchased at a pharmacy or prepared at home. To prepare it, you will need an oil base, such as butter. Melt it, add hop cones. Boil for 5-10 minutes, stirring slowly. Then remove, cool, and let it brew. After the product hardens, you can apply small pieces to the skin, rub in a thin layer and leave until completely absorbed. The ointment has a regenerating effect, restores the skin, relieves irritation, and returns the natural color.

• Propolis ointment

Propolis is melted on the fire, 12-20 grams of pine needles are added to it, boiled for 5-10 minutes, stirring slowly. Apply a thin layer to the skin, leave until completely absorbed.

• Strengthening mixture

Take 200 grams of raisins, dried apricots, prunes, and figs. Mix and mince. Separately mince 1 lemon with peel and about 300 grams of walnuts. Mix the resulting mixture thoroughly, add 5-6 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of ground ginger. Mix thoroughly and let it brew for 3-4 days. Eat 1 tablespoon in the morning and evening. Helps restore strength, return youth and natural color to the skin.

• Vitaminized lotion

To give your skin its usual natural color, you need to prepare the following infusion. Take 50 ml of Eleutherococcus extract and 50 ml of Schisandra infusion, mix them together. Add 2-3 drops of vitamin E, mix thoroughly. Let it brew for 2-3 days, then you can wipe your face 2-3 times a day.

What hair color suits a sallow complexion?

Any doctor will answer that it is irrational to select a hair color for an earthy complexion, since an earthy complexion is pathological. It would be much more logical to first undergo an examination, establish the cause of such a pathology, and undergo appropriate treatment. Only after that can you select a hair color, already for a healthy complexion. Beauty is, first of all, health. But if we talk about color combinations, it is worth noting that the best option would be dark or red hair.

Prevention

To prevent gray and sallow complexion, you need to undergo examination in a timely manner and eliminate the identified pathologies. In addition, it is recommended to adhere to a healthy lifestyle, eat well, get the necessary amount of vitamins and microelements. You need to drink enough water, do physical exercises. It is important to alternate static and dynamic exercises, do breathing practices, as well as relaxation complexes, meditation. It is necessary to regularly care for the skin externally: cleanse it, moisturize, nourish. You need to try to eliminate bad habits, including smoking and alcohol, drink less medications.

Forecast

A gray complexion can have a favorable prognosis if you undergo timely diagnosis and receive the necessary treatment. The complexion itself does not change, it is always a consequence of diseases of the internal organs. If you do not pay attention to the sallow complexion, you can miss the early signs of many serious diseases, including malignant neoplasms, ulcers, anemia, organ failure.