Deposits that develop under the eyes are called xanthelasmas palpebrarum. They may appear on the upper or lower eyelids or the corner of the eyes.

They are usually pale yellow in colour.

These are recognised as one of the “major” signs of high cholesterol on face, notes the Revival Research Institute.

Corneal arcus

This is another “major sign” of high cholesterol on face, says the health body.

It usually manifests as a pale white ring around your iris, the coloured part of your eye. If you’re under 50 years old and have corneal arcus, it’s possible that you have FH.

Corneal arcus is usually benign and does not interfere with vision.

How common is FH and how is it diagnosed?

FH is one of the most common inherited conditions that affects about one in every 250. It’s estimated that around 270,000 people in the UK have it, but many don’t know they do.

According to the British Heart Foundation (BHF), the first step to finding out whether you have FH is to visit your GP to have your cholesterol checked. Your doctor will also ask whether you have a history of high cholesterol or heart conditions in your family.

“If your results come back high, or if your doctor notices some of the physical signs of FH listed above, they will refer you to a specialist for an assessment, which is likely to include genetic testing. The specialist will explain which of your relatives should be checked out, too,” explains the BHF.