Dermatology / Skin conditions
There are some conditions which are easy for Western (I call this mainstream) medicine and difficult for Chinese Medicine to get results with. Some conditions are simple in Chinese Medicine and difficult in Western Medicine. And some conditions are difficult for every modality: dermatology is one of these.
Skin conditions are notoriously difficult and complicated. This is partially because there are so many variables: genetics, environment, stress, allergies, diet and hormones may all play roles in the comings and goings of many skin conditions.
For some people and presentations, treatment will be of a short term nature: however for many conditions of a genetic, or autoimmune related nature, treatment will be of a maintenance, ongoing nature (as of course you can’t change your genes!) and exposure to triggers may well result in a flare up of symptoms, although with regular treatment these flares should be of reduced intensity and duration.
Although the evidence for Chinese Medicine in regard to dermatology is mixed (the same as mainstream medicine: they often demonstrate similar, ‘on par’ results in clinical studies for many skin conditions), it can definitely be worth considering Chinese Medicine for treatment of skin conditions, as we offer a holistic, drug free and natural option for treatment with much lower risks and fewer side effects than Western medicine currently offers.
Some self care tips for itchy skin
- Most importantly, the skin should be kept moist by using a daily moisturiser.
- Wear 100 per cent cotton or soft fabrics; natural fibres as much as possible
- Avoiding rough, scratchy fibres and tight clothing
- Using rubber gloves with cotton liners
- Having lukewarm baths and showers using a non-soap cleanser or hypoallergenic bath oil
- Gently patting, not rubbing, the skin dry with a soft towel
- Applying a moisturiser within three minutes after bathing to “lock in” the moisture
- When possible, avoiding rapid changes of temperature and activities that raise a sweat
- Removing carpets and rugs from houses, if possible, and keeping pets outside
- Ventilating the house as often as possible
- Avoiding stuffed toys which harbour dust mites
- Changing bed linen regularly, using specialised dust mite prevention covers
- Reducing daily stress
- Learning your eczema triggers and how to avoid them
From a Chinese Medicine perspective we recommend that you avoid hot spicy foods such as chilli or curries. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Keeping your fluid intake up throughout the day, drinking cooling teas such as green tea.
When the itching is severe, try going for a walk, focusing your breath and being mindful of your stress, or have a warm shower.