Mottling is caused by the heart no longer being able to pump blood effectively. Because of this, blood pressure drops, causing extremities to feel cool to the touch. The skin then starts to become discolored.

What does it mean when your skin is mottled?

Mottled skin can result from poor blood circulation in the body and can be solved with just a short bath in warm water. However, mottling of the skin can also occur before death.

What does mottling mean in medical terms?

Mottling occurs when the heart is no longer able to pump blood effectively. The blood pressure slowly drops and blood flow throughout the body slows, causing one's extremities to begin to feel cold to the touch. Mottled skin before death presents as a red or purple marbled appearance.