When it comes to dermatology, most people think only of creams, ointments, and topical treatments for the skin. But the truth is, skin issues often reflect much deeper imbalances within the body. This is where holistic dermatology steps in, offering a more comprehensive approach that treats the entire person, not just the outward symptoms. At East West Dermatology, we specialize in holistic dermatology by integrating both traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and functional medicine techniques to address the root cause of skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, acne, and more.
What is Holistic Dermatology?
Holistic dermatology is a medical approach that looks at the body as a whole, recognizing that skin disorders are often the outward manifestation of deeper internal imbalances. Instead of simply addressing the skin as an isolated organ, holistic dermatology views it as part of a larger system interconnected with the digestive, immune, endocrine, and nervous systems. The aim is to understand the root causes of skin issues and to treat them with a combination of lifestyle adjustments, nutritional support, and natural therapies.
In holistic dermatology, the focus is on long-term health, not quick fixes. Treating the skin alone may bring temporary relief, but for chronic conditions like eczema, a more integrative approach is needed to achieve lasting results. This is where the synergy of traditional Chinese medicine and functional lab testing comes into play.
Functional Lab Tests: Getting to the Root Cause
One of the key tools used in holistic dermatology is functional lab testing. Functional lab tests go beyond the standard medical tests by looking for underlying imbalances that might be contributing to skin problems. These tests provide a deeper understanding of what’s going on inside the body, helping to identify root causes such as inflammation, hormonal imbalances, or gut health issues.
At East West Dermatology, we use a variety of functional lab tests, including:
1. Stool Testing: Your gut plays a crucial role in skin health. Imbalances in gut bacteria, yeast overgrowth, or leaky gut syndrome can all trigger inflammation that shows up on your skin. Stool tests are used to evaluate the health of your digestive system, looking for markers of inflammation, pathogenic bacteria, parasites, and imbalances in the microbiome. Healing the gut can often lead to significant improvements in skin conditions, particularly chronic ones like eczema and acne.
2. Urine Testing: Urine tests provide insight into metabolic processes and toxin exposure. For instance, organic acids tests (OATs) can reveal nutrient deficiencies, yeast overgrowth, and detoxification issues. Additionally, urine tests help assess how well your body is processing and eliminating waste, which can be particularly relevant in cases where toxins are affecting skin health. Detoxifying the body through herbal therapies and dietary changes can help clear up stubborn skin issues.
3. Hormone Testing: Hormonal imbalances are often at the root of many skin issues, including acne, eczema flare-ups, and psoriasis. Hormone testing allows us to look at levels of key hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol, providing insight into how stress and hormonal fluctuations may be impacting your skin. Once we identify any imbalances, we can recommend specific treatments, including lifestyle adjustments, herbal formulas, and supplements to restore harmony to the endocrine system.
The Power of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
At East West Dermatology, we combine functional lab testing with the ancient wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine. TCM views the skin as a reflection of the internal organs, particularly the liver, lungs, and digestive system. When these organs are out of balance, skin issues arise.
Through personalized herbal formulas, acupuncture, and dietary recommendations, TCM helps restore balance to these systems. For example, if a patient’s stool test reveals gut dysbiosis, we might prescribe Chinese herbs that address both the digestive system and the immune system, while also working to clear heat and dampness—two common TCM patterns related to skin conditions. By supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes, calming inflammation, and balancing the body’s energies (Qi), TCM can effectively treat the root cause of many chronic skin conditions.
Treating the Whole Person
Holistic dermatology is more than just treating the skin. It’s about treating the person as a whole—addressing emotional, mental, and physical aspects of health. This approach recognizes that stress, poor diet, environmental toxins, and lifestyle habits all contribute to skin issues. That’s why we take the time to understand your entire health history, your stress levels, your sleep patterns, and even your emotional well-being.
By combining the insights of functional lab tests with the healing power of traditional Chinese medicine, we are able to create personalized treatment plans that focus on long-term healing and wellness.
A Holistic Path to Clear, Healthy Skin
If you’ve been struggling with chronic skin issues and have tried conventional treatments without lasting results, holistic dermatology offers a path to real, lasting change. At East West Dermatology, we don’t just treat the surface—we treat the root. By healing the body from the inside out, we help you achieve not only clear skin but also vibrant health and well-being.
Take the first step towards holistic healing by scheduling a consultation with us today. Together, we can uncover the underlying causes of your skin condition and create a customized plan that promotes true healing from within.
