In holistic dermatology, the human body is assessed and treated as a whole. If you have a skin ailment or concern, a holistic dermatologist doesn’t only look at what’s happening with your skin. Instead, they will look at your overall health and lifestyle to determine the best course of treatment for you.
For example, instead of just prescribing an antibiotic for your acne, your holistic dermatologist might also recommend dietary changes and stress reduction techniques to reduce inflammation in your body.
What Are the Benefits of Holistic Dermatology?
- Personalized Care
A doctor in a holistic dermatology practice will work with you to create a highly individualized treatment plan that is uniquely yours.
You will be heard and seen by your doctor, and many people report feeling respected and empowered when working with a holistic dermatologist.
- Only Essential Medication
Most people don’t want to take medications unless they absolutely must. Medications can have unwanted side effects or put stress on your kidneys or liver. Antibiotics are famous for destroying the gut biome and causing yeast infections and gastrointestinal upset.
In holistic dermatology, lifestyle changes are generally addressed first before medications are considered. Often, adjustments to diet, exercise, sleep, and alcohol and tobacco use can improve if not eliminate skin conditions before medication ever needs to be prescribed.
- Backed by Science
Research shows that holistic dermatology and its focus on modifiable lifestyle factors have a positive impact on dermatologic conditions.
The focus on individual needs and lifestyle changes to support the overall health of the patient have been proven effective in the treatment and management of dermatological issues.
- Improved Quality of Life
Not only is your skin going to be healthier, but your body will likely be healthier, as well. The changes you make under the care of a holistic dermatologist are all designed to support your body as a whole.
Stress will be minimized, your nutrition will improve, and hopefully you will be getting excellent, restorative sleep. Ideally, your energy will increase, and your overall physical health will improve.
- The Root Cause Will Be Treated
Holistic dermatology isn’t interested in a quick fix. Instead, your overall health will be assessed, and specific changes and tweaks will be made that help to expose the root cause of whatever skin concern is present.
For example, if you have rosacea, dietary changes can have a dramatic impact on your disease process. Rosacea is an inflammatory condition of the skin, and if your body is extremely sensitive to dairy, going dairy-free might eliminate rosacea flares. Another person might be fine with dairy but will see dramatic improvement with the addition of probiotic supplements or an increase in Omega-3 fatty acids.
If you have eczema, it could be caused by inflammation, an allergic reaction, or an immune system cause. Your holistic dermatologist will carefully assess your unique eczema to determine the best course of treatment. Maybe you will simply need to change your laundry detergent or pay close attention to the ingredients in your skincare. Or perhaps you have a food sensitivity or allergy that needs to be addressed.
- You’re a Part of Your Cure
When you work with a holistic dermatologist, you become a partner in your own care. You and your doctor will both play an active role, and communication between you will help you arrive at the best treatment plan for you.
This is different from most experiences in health care in this country, and it can feel empowering and validating to be an important member of your own health care team.
- It’s Preventative
Holistic dermatology does an excellent job of finding underlying causes of disease in the skin and coming up with ways to support the overall health and functioning of the body. Not only does this improve whatever the original skin complaint was, but it sets you up for improved health in the future.
If you quit smoking, limit your alcohol intake, tend to your stress, and eat a nutritious diet calibrated to your specific preferences and needs, then it stands to reason that your body will be less likely to experience disease in the future.
In Conclusion
Holistic dermatology is proving to be a scientifically backed, effective way to address skincare concerns and improve your health and well-being. If you are interested in taking an active role in your healthcare and improving your overall quality of life, it might be wise to seek out a holistic practitioner the next time you need a dermatologist.
