How to Increase Blood Circulation to Improve Skin Complexion

Blood is the means by which your body is essentially able to function and survive.  It serves many purposes within your body; that’s why when you increase blood circulation, it has the incredible power to impact your overall skin complexion.

Why Good Blood Flow Is Important

Having good blood flow is important because that’s how oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the cells throughout your body.  Without proper blood flow, your skin can be deprived of vital vitamins and minerals which can have a negative impact on your skin’s health. 

Blood also assists in eliminating waste products from your body.  When you have poor blood circulation, toxins can start to build up in your system and this can lead to itchy skin and/or rashes as well as other health issues.

Signs of Poor Blood Circulation

• Dry skin
• Brittle nails
• Hair loss
• Slow healing sores/wounds
• Cold hands/feet
• Digestive troubles
• Memory loss

Ways to Increase Blood Circulation

Exercise Regularly

Exercise daily to keep the blood flowing through your body.  This helps get the blood pumping through your vessels and also lowers blood pressure.

Eat a Healthy Diet

A healthy balanced diet is necessary to maintain a healthy circulatory system.  Eat of plenty of vegetables and fruit.  Consume healthy unsaturated fats.  Nutrient dense foods are really key here!

Avoid highly processed foods, fried foods, and excess salt.   

Get Your Iron Levels Checked

Iron is what transports oxygen through your blood vessels.  Iron deficiency deprives your skin of oxygen and can make your skin appear dry and pale.

If you suspect low iron levels, get your bloodwork done to confirm!  You may need to take an iron supplement.

Drink Lots of Water!

Your blood is composed of about half water, so it makes sense to drink sufficient water to ensure your blood doesn’t thicken.  When you’re hydrated, blood can more easily flow through your vessels.  Water also helps flush toxins out of your body.

Try and drink water consistently throughout the day so that you avoid dehydration.

Avoid Smoking

It’s time to ditch that bad habit right now!

Nicotine in cigarettes causes your blood vessels to constrict.  Over time, smoking damages your arteries and makes them harden and become stiff. When blood vessels are constricted, this limits the amount of oxygen and nutrients delivered to your cells.

Dry Brush Your Skin

If you’ve never tried dry brushing before, you really should! 

Dry brushing is a technique where the skin is brushed prior to showering to help invigorate the skin.  It not only assists with lymphatic drainage but also helps increase blood circulation throughout the body.

Massage Your Face

Massage your face to stimulate blood flow and oxygenate your skin for that youthful glow.  This also assists with flushing out toxins via your lymphatic system. 

Elevate Your Legs

Elevate your legs above your heart to improve blood circulation and assist in draining blood from your veins.

Wear Compression Socks

Compression socks can be beneficial, especially if you’re sitting for extended periods of time.  These socks help by creating pressure on your veins, moving blood back towards your heart.