Skin Problems

Your skin is the largest organ in your body.

It helps to protect you from the environment, assists with elimination of toxins and regulates body temperature. Skin problems can be hard to manage. Are you having skin issues? Natural medicine can help.

Skin conditions I see at the clinic include:

• Acne
• Acne Rosacea
• Dermatitis
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Urticaria (hives)
• Folliculitis
• Fungal skin problems
• Tinea
• Pityriasis rosea
• Pityriasis versicolour
• Ulcers and Sores
• Boils
• Warts
• Molluscum contagiosum
• Shingles
• Vitiligo
• Impetigo (school sores)

Causes of skin conditions

There can be many factors that lead to skin problems depending on the condition:

• Often there is a relationship between your skin and your gastrointestinal tract
• Constipation and a sluggish liver can lead to skin problems
• Poor lymphatic circulation or elimination can lead to skin congestion
• You may be reacting to particular foods or have an undiagnosed food allergy
• Allergy to dust mites, pollens, cat skin protein, etc
• You may be lacking in particular nutrients
• Nervous system reactions and stress can exacerbate skin conditions
• There may be viral, bacterial or fungal causes
• Some skin conditions are contagious
• Low immunity and poor wound healing
• Nutritional deficiencies

Naturopathic Treatment

Skin problems are treated symptomatically, topically, internally and constitutionally. It’s not just about applying expensive skin products.  You also need to address the underlying factors causing the problem.

Herbal Medicine support for skin

• Alterative herbs are used in skin disorders when there is  internal dysregulation
• Bitter tonics and cleansing herbs work through the liver, bowel, kidney etc
• Hormone balancing herbs may be required
• Anti-inflammatory herbs are used systemically
• Immune, lymphatic, antiviral, anti-allergy,  anti-infective herbs where needed
• Circulatory herbs improve nutrition to the skin as well as promoting elimination
• Nervous system herbs – adaptogens and nervines when there is stress or anxiety
• Herbs for other systems that may be contributing

Diet

A healthy diet is a foundation for improving your skin condition. Healthy food choices can make a difference to how your skin looks and feels.

• Eat a variety of fresh vegetables including green leafy foliage. Green, yellow, red and blue fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants.
• Fresh fruit – aim to consume at least three pieces every day. Raspberries, blueberries and strawberries are rich in antioxidants and protect your skin from free-radicals.
• High fibre foods such as whole grains and legumes are important and assist with eliminating any toxins as well as improving your digestion.
• Include good quality protein rich foods such as lean meat, fish, chicken, dairy and eggs. Protein is important as it contributes to your skin’s elasticity and firmness.
• Good fats are known as ‘moisturising foods’. Sources include avocado, nuts and seeds, olive oil and flaxseed oil.

Topical treatments

Specific topical treatments using herbs and nutrients can be prepared for you. These are generally symptomatic unless and of course the problem may be purely topical e.g. some fungal infections.

• Creams
• Ointments
• Washes
• Poultices
• Compresses

Lifestyle

The way you live and your habits affect your skin. These tips can help improve your vitality and maintain a radiant complexion.

• Your skin is reliant on good hydration. The human body consists of 75 per cent water and the skin itself is composed of 70 per cent water. Avoid dehydration by drinking at least eight to ten glasses of water every day. Reduce caffeinated drinks such as colas, coffee and tea as they may dehydrate your body.
• Caffeine – excessive consumption depletes the body’s natural reserves of vitamins, especially vitamin C which is responsible for collagen formation. Try herbal teas as a tasty alternative.
• Exposure to sunlight is important for the production of vitamin D. Aim to get outdoors for 20 to 30 minutes each day. Avoid over exposure to the sun. Wear a hat and a good mechanical sunscreen with an SPF factor of at least 30+ when out for long periods in the middle of the day in the warmer weather.
• Avoid exposure to chemicals including harsh cleaning products.
• Avoid cigarette smoking both active and passive. Smoking is a precursor to premature ageing, and is linked with many chronic illnesses. It is a toxin and depletes the body of many important antioxidant nutrients.
• Rest, relaxation and a good night’s sleep can improve your complexion and boost your immune system. Aim for at least eight hours of quality sleep every night.
• Moderate exercise stimulates oxygen intake and improves blood flow to the skin, giving you a beautiful natural glow. Exercise also tones your muscles, reduces the appearance of cellulite and makes your skin look firmer.
• Skin care products such as a natural cleansers, moisturizers are important for the topical care of your skin. Look for chemical free cosmetics to avoid irritation.
• Dry skin brushing or using loofah in the shower is great for exfoliating. This action removes dead skin cells and aids in new skin cell production leaving your skin youthful and radiant in appearance. It also stimulates circulation aiding in cell metabolism and reduction of cellulite.
• Pamper yourself with a facial and massage at a spa or indulge in homemade facials.

Your skin is a reflection of your body’s inner processes and overall health. Smooth and clear skin is a first visible sign of a properly functioning body supported by healthy lifestyle and diet, rich in good quality fresh food and nutrients.