Skin Issues
What is the purpose of the skin barrier?
The skin is one of the largest organs of detoxification in the body. It is also responsible for immunity, protecting us pathogens and foreign substances, and regulating temperature. The skin has natural bacteria that live on it to help balance the pH and prevent bad bacteria from overgrowing. When we have inflammation, open wounds, flaking & quick skin turnover, this barrier is compromised.
What are common Skin conditions?
Unhealthy skin can show up in different ways. Most skin conditions are correlated to poor microbiome (gut flora), parasites, poor environment, hormonal dis-regulation and sometimes food sensitivities (although I find this is commonly a contributing factor, rather than the root cause).
Common skin conditions include:
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Acne: characterized by the presence of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes cysts or nodules.
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Eczema (Dermatitis): causes redness, itching, and inflammation. The most common type is atopic dermatitis, which often appears as dry, itchy patches on the skin.
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Psoriasis: a chronic autoimmune condition that leads to the rapid buildup of skin cells, resulting in thick, red, scaly patches on the skin.
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Rosacea: causes redness and visible blood vessels on the face, along with pimple-like bumps and skin thickening. It often affects the central face, including the cheeks, nose, and forehead.
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Contact Dermatitis: an allergic or irritant reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with substances that trigger inflammation, such as certain cosmetics, soaps, or plants like poison ivy.
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Hives (Urticaria): red, itchy welts that appear on the skin, often as a result of an allergic reaction to food, medication, or other triggers.
What testing is used for Skin?
Common testing I use is a GI MAP Stool test which can tell us the composition of your microbiome, parasites, bacteria or viral overgrowth. I also use an Organic acids test (OAT test) to tell us about fungal overgrowth. An IgG food test may be needed to address food issues.
How I approach Skin Conditions...
We begin with testing to understand your body chemistry, with a strong focus on microbiome health. From there, we create sustainable changes and, when needed, use short term protocols to help the body reset. We also support the skin barrier and pH using targeted botanicals and daily habits.
I also use Traditional Chinese Medicine to understand your constitution and address patterns such as hormonal or cycle related imbalances. Modalities such as acupuncture and homeopathy support immune function and help restore overall organ system balance.
We also work on rewiring the patterns that influence the skin through the nervous system. This includes emotions, beliefs and stored stress responses. I use hypnotherapy, breath work, and cognitive restructuring to help shift your inner dialogue and support more lasting change, so the skin can calm, and become more resilient over time.