Vascular “stars” (telangiectasias)
What they look like: Small red or purple “spiderwebs” on the ankles and feet.
Liver connection: Often seen in chronic diseases such as cirrhosis. Caused by altered hormone metabolism (especially estrogen) and increased pressure in the veins.
Skin color change
What it looks like: A yellowish tint (mild jaundice) or darkening (hyperpigmentation), most often around the ankles.
Liver connection: Jaundice is a sign of a problem with the breakdown and excretion of bilirubin, and hyperpigmentation is the result of metabolic disturbances and the accumulation of melanin.
Itchy skin
What it looks like: Constant, without a rash, more common at night.
Liver Connection: One of the first signs of bile stasis (cholestasis). Accumulated bile acids irritate nerve endings in the skin.