Herbal Medicine and Skin Health
Herbal medicine offers natural remedies for various skin concerns. Integrative medicine practitioners sometimes use herbs alongside other treatments to address underlying issues affecting the skin.
Popular Herbs
Some commonly used herbs include turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and chamomile, which soothes and calms irritated skin.
Benefits
Herbal remedies can help treat acne, eczema, and other skin conditions without harsh chemicals. They offer a gentle yet effective approach to skin health.
Incorporating Herbs
Consult with a practitioner to identify the best herbs for your skin type and concerns. Herbal teas, supplements, and topical treatments are all viable options.
IV Therapy
Antioxidant glutathione and vitamin C bring a glow to your skin from the inside out. IV therapy, or IV drip therapy, can help improve skin health by delivering vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants directly into the bloodstream. This method of delivery allows for maximum absorption and bypasses the digestive system, which oral supplements must go through
How It Works
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that helps detoxify the body and improve skin health. Vitamin C, though often known for immune health, is also essential for collagen synthesis. Collagen provides the structure for healthy skin, hair, and nails.
Benefits
This treatment can help even out skin tone, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and improve overall complexion. It also provides an energy boost and supports immune function.
Real-Life Results
Many individuals report improved skin radiance and a healthier overall appearance after receiving IV therapy with glutathione and vitamin C.
Shop the Beauty Drip, exclusive to CentreSpringMD.
PRX-T33
Developed in Italy, PRX-T33 is a non-invasive skin treatment that uses a combination of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and hydrogen peroxide. It offers the benefits of a chemical peel without the downtime.
How It Works
PRX-T33 stimulates collagen production and improves skin texture by penetrating deeper layers of the skin. The treatment also hydrates and brightens the complexion.
Benefits
This treatment can improve fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation with minimal discomfort or downtime. Results are visible after just one session.
Learn more about PRX-T33, and other non-surgical treatments to tone, tighten, and brighten skin.
Acupuncture and Facial Rejuvenation
Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese practice, is gaining popularity for its skin benefits. Facial acupuncture or cosmetic actupuncture, in particular, focuses on enhancing skin health.
How It Works
Tiny needles are inserted into specific points on the face, stimulating blood flow and collagen production (3). This promotes natural healing and rejuvenation.
Benefits
Facial acupuncture can reduce fine lines, improve skin tone, and promote a youthful glow. It’s a holistic alternative to more invasive treatments.
What to Expect
Sessions typically last about an hour, and noticeable improvements can be seen after several treatments. It’s a relaxing procedure with minimal discomfort.
Gut-Skin Connection
The health of your gut has a direct impact on your skin. Integrative and functional medicine emphasize the gut-skin connection as a key factor in achieving radiant skin. A provider can help you identify any underlying imbalances or infections that contribute to poor skin health.
Understanding the Connection
An imbalanced gut can lead to skin issues like acne, rosacea, and eczema. Healing the gut can significantly improve these conditions. Digestive issues like microbiome dysbiosis or gluten intolerance are also more common with acne, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis (4).
Dietary Changes
Incorporate gut-friendly foods like probiotics, fiber-rich vegetables, and fermented foods into your diet. These can help balance your gut microbiome and improve skin health.
Probiotics and Supplements
Consider taking probiotics and other supplements to support gut health. Consult with a provider to determine the best options for your needs.
Read more: A Comprehensive Guide to Healing Psoriasis
Expert Insights
To provide more depth, listen to what our skin health experts have to say about the integrative approach to great skin.
Dr. Taz Bhatia, M.D., CNS, L.AC
My secret is microneedling! This is a minimally invasive treatment used to promote skin rejuvenation and the production of collagen. I always see results! My skin looks smoother and some of my more subtle lines seem to disappear. I feel like it buys me time from needing a lot of more invasive procedures, and my skin thanks me for it.
Whitney Barnhart, Esthetician
Don’t forget about hyaluronic acid! This little powerhouse can hold 1,000 times its molecular weight in water. That means your skin is getting major hydration. I love our Circadia Vitamin C Reversal Serum that contains hyaluronic acid. If you want to go the organic route, the Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Serum from Eminence is amazing. Just apply before your moisturizer and you will be good to glow!
The Role of Nutrition and Lifestyle in Skin Health
Your diet and daily habits have a significant impact on your skin. Integrative and functional medicine emphasize the importance of nutrition and lifestyle in maintaining a healthy complexion.
Nutrition’s Impact on Skin
What you eat directly influences your skin. Foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants promote skin health.
Some key nutrients for healthy skin include: Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin C, & Zinc
Similarly, a diet high in processed foods and sugar can lead to inflammation and breakouts. A diet high in sugar increases a process known as glycation, which can damage collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, resulting in premature aging (5).
Lifestyle Factors That Affect Skin
In addition to nutrition, lifestyle habits also play a significant role in skin health. Poor sleep, stress, and lack of exercise can all contribute to skin problems.
- Stress: Chronic stress can impact hormone levels and lead to breakouts or inflammation. Finding ways to manage stress, such as through meditation or yoga, can improve overall skin health.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity improves blood flow and delivers nutrients and oxygen to the skin (6). It also helps reduce stress and promotes detoxification, both of which are beneficial for healthy skin.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for glowing skin. Water helps maintain skin’s elasticity, flush out toxins, and keep your complexion clear. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day to support your skin’s health.
Related: The Anti-Aging Power of NAD+
Key Takeaways and Actionable Advice for Glowing Skin
Integrative and functional medicine provide a holistic and effective approach to achieving glowing skin. By focusing on overall health and addressing underlying issues, these methods offer long-lasting results.
Get in touch with our integrative spa experts or browse our full spa menu!
Key Takeaways
- Mind Your Diet: Nutrition is vital for skin health. Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and don’t forget to stay hydrated.
- Live a Skin-Healthy Lifestyle: Get plenty of sleep, watch your stress levels, and be mindful of toxin exposure in your environment.
- Consider Integrative Treatments: Explore treatments like microneedling with PRP, peptides, herbal medicine, and acupuncture for natural skin enhancement.
For those ready to take the next step in their skincare journey, explore our spa services or contact us for a personalized consultation.
