Mottling most frequently occurs first on the feet, then travels up the legs. Mottling of skin before death is common and usually occurs during the final week of life, although in some cases it can occur earlier.

What does the beginning of mottling look like?

Symptoms of mottled skin

The main symptom of mottled skin is a blotchy appearance with red or purple spots. The irregular skin color can appear on any part of the body. You may see a lacy network of patches on the skin.

What does mottling look like when someone is dying?

A purplish or blotchy red-blue coloring on knees and/ or feet (mottling) is a sign that death is very near. Because the body no longer needs large amounts of energy and because the digestive system is slowing down, the need for and interest in food (and eventually fluids) gradually lessens.