What causes a sallow complexion?
Disease description:
A friend told me that my face looks dull and lacks luster, possibly indicating a health problem. I would like to ask, what are the causes of a sallow complexion?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Pale and lusterless complexion usually refers to dark, dull skin that appears unhealthy. It may be an external manifestation of certain internal problems involving multiple systems and organs. Below are some possible causes:
1. Malnutrition: Particularly long-term insufficient nutrient intake, such as deficiencies in protein, fiber, vitamins, and iron, can lead to low immunity, resulting in a grayish and dull complexion.
2. Irregular lifestyle: Long-term late nights and insufficient sleep may also cause a pale and lusterless complexion. Staying up late disrupts the body's normal biological clock, leading to endocrine disorders and hormonal imbalances, which in turn affect skin health.
3. Liver disease: Abnormal liver function is one of the common causes of a dull complexion. The liver is an important organ for detoxification in the body; when liver function is impaired, such as in chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis, it can affect bilirubin metabolism, leading to jaundice or dullness of the skin.
4. Anemia: Iron-deficiency anemia or other types of anemia can reduce the blood's ability to carry oxygen, causing the skin to appear pale or dull due to oxygen deficiency.
