5 facial signs that ‘denounce’ fatty liver

Fatty liver, also known as the “silent killer”, is becoming a major health problem. Although the liver is located deep in the abdominal cavity, leading hepatobiliary experts confirm that the troubles of this organ are often “exposed” right on our faces.

“The face acts as an external indicator of internal metabolic stress,” shares Dr. Vikram Raut, senior consultant liver transplant specialist at Fortis Mulund Hospital (Mumbai). Because the liver is the center for hormone regulation, detoxification, and nutrient processing, when liver function declines, it triggers changes that can be observed with the naked eye.

Here are 5 important warning signs on your face that you should not ignore:

Yellow skin and eyes

This is the most classic sign of liver weakness. Dr. Mallikarjun Sakpal from Aster CMI Hospital (Bengaluru) explains that this condition occurs when the liver cannot process all bilirubin – a waste product from the breakdown of red blood cells. When the liver has difficulty, bilirubin levels increase, causing a slight yellow color in the whites of the eyes or facial skin.

Swollen face and puffy eyes

If you wake up with puffy cheeks and eyes, it could be a sign of water retention. Dr Sudeep Khanna from Indraprastha Apollo Hospital said that when the liver is overloaded with fat, it produces less of the protein needed to keep fluid inside the blood vessels. As a result, fluid leaks into facial muscle tissues, causing persistent edema.

Acne and excessive oily skin

Sudden outbreaks of acne, especially around the jaw, cheeks, and forehead, may be a sign of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD).

Fatty liver cannot effectively eliminate toxins or balance hormones such as androgens, leading to overactive sebaceous glands and “persistent” acne despite using conventional skin treatments.

Blood vessels form “spider webs” and the face turns red

Tiny red lines branching like spider webs (spider angiomas) are a common sign of severe liver scarring or cirrhosis. Dr. Raut explains this is a consequence of telangiectasia.

In addition, facial redness such as rosacea often arises due to the liver’s failure to break down estrogen, which increases blood flow to the facial skin and exposes the vascular network.

Dull, itchy and dark skin

Liver disease can steal your skin’s natural radiance. Fatty liver often reduces the ability to absorb vitamins A and E, causing dry, flaky and itchy skin. In addition, hormone imbalance and accumulation of bile salts in the blood can cause facial skin to darken (gray-brown) or develop uneven patches of skin.

Although the above signs sound ominous, doctors confirm that fatty liver can completely improve if detected early. “Losing just 5 to 10% of body weight can help significantly reduce the amount of fat in the liver and reverse the disease process,” Dr. Khanna emphasized.

Experts recommend switching to meals rich in green vegetables and cutting out sugary soft drinks completely; Maintain the habit of walking for at least 30 minutes every day. Use natural anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric to aid in the recovery process. If you have risk factors such as obesity or diabetes, proactively consult your doctor for a regular ultrasound or FibroScan