The TCM Approach to Treating Skin
Like all other health conditions, skin disorders are a symptom of an underlying imbalance in your body. In Chinese Medicine, when we treat the root cause of the problem, the symptom goes away. Even skin disorders that are difficult to manage by conventional standards are very well treated with Chinese Herbal Medicine. It takes dedication and unusual tasting tea, but the results are worth it. There are very few if any side effects, and Chinese herbs are very safe when purchased through a reputable supplier.
The following conditions have been successfully treated with Chinese Herbal Medicine:
* Psoriasis
* Perioral Dermatitis
* Herpes (zoster [shingles] and simplex)
* Acne
* Rosacea
* [Eczema][1] (including pomphlyx)
* Lichen Planus
* Viral Warts
* Chronic Hives
* and more
Many people come to try Chinese Medicine for skin problems after they've tried countless other treatments including repeated steroids, antibiotics, other alternative treatments, drastic diet changes, and more. Some treatments work short term, some cause horrible side effects, and some don't work at all. With Chinese Medicine we take a different approach. A Chinese Medical evaluation will include asking many questions about your skin and overall health, looking at and feeling your skin, and looking at your tongue.
While people suffering with skin problems often want instant relief, lasting results take time. Chinese herbs work to clear heat, toxins and wind from your body to relieve symptoms like itching, redness, swellings and dryness so during treatment you will notice changes after the first 2-3 weeks (sometimes sooner). Topical Herbal Treatments can speed up results but should be used in conjunction with internal Chinese Herbs for complete treatment. Lasting results may take 3-6 months or longer depending on the severity of the condition.
Our approach treats the whole person. Suffering with skin conditions for years can really take its toll, so sometimes we use Acupuncture in conjunction with Chinese herbs to help with other symptoms including stress management, sleep, or digestive problems. In addition, minor diet changes or supplements may be beneficial. At the end of treatment, our patients are delighted to have clear skin, more energy and an improved outlook.
Once your skin is in a balanced and stable state, it can maintain balance fairly well on its own. Sometimes there can be a recurrence in some conditions like Psoriasis, but the flare is easier to bring under control and less dramatic with prompt treatment. Sometimes topical herbal treatment is enough to provide relief.
Dr. Mary Claire Dilks has precise knowledge in the effective treatment of Dermatological conditions with Chinese Medicine. Dr. Dilks has studied with the world renowned TCM Dermatologist Mazin Al-Khafaji and is completing his Dermatology Diploma course in 2017. In addition, Dr. Dilks is developing a line of skin products available at our office and on Etsy. We take appointments Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, by appointment.