Perioral dermatitis is a skin condition characterized by a rash of small, red bumps around the mouth and sometimes on the cheeks, nose, and forehead. The condition may be accompanied by itching and burning sensations. The exact cause of perioral dermatitis is not known, but it is thought to be related to the use of certain topical creams and ointments, particularly those that contain steroids. Other potential triggers include fluoride toothpaste and cosmetics. Treatment typically involves avoiding triggers, using non-irritating skin care products, and applying topical or oral medications as prescribed by a dermatologist.
Holistic treatments for dermatitis focus on addressing the whole person, rather than just treating the symptoms of the condition. Some holistic approaches that may be effective in managing dermatitis include:
Diet and nutrition: Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help to support the immune system and reduce inflammation. Some people find that eliminating certain foods, such as gluten or dairy, can help to improve their symptoms.
Stress management: Stress can aggravate dermatitis symptoms, so it's important to find ways to manage stress, such as through mindfulness practices, yoga, or meditation.
Herbal remedies: Some herbs, such as calendula, chamomile, and aloe vera, have anti-inflammatory and healing properties that can be beneficial for dermatitis.
Essential oils: Essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil and chamomile oil have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that can help to reduce dermatitis symptoms.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment that can help to balance the body's energy, or qi, which in turn promotes healing and reduces symptoms.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. It's believed that this helps to balance the body's energy, or qi, which in turn promotes healing and reduces symptoms.
Acupuncture is believed to be effective in treating inflammatory skin conditions by:
Improving blood circulation: The insertion of needles increases blood flow to the affected area, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve healing.
Balancing hormones: Acupuncture is believed to help regulate hormones, which can be beneficial for skin conditions that are related to hormonal imbalances such as acne.
Reducing stress: Acupuncture is thought to help reduce stress, which can exacerbate skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea.
It's worth noting that acupuncture may not be effective for all skin conditions and it's important to consult a qualified acupuncturist or dermatologist to determine if acupuncture is the right treatment for your skin condition. Additionally, it's important to note that acupuncture should not be used as a sole treatment for skin conditions, but rather as an adjunctive therapy alongside conventional treatments prescribed by a dermatologist.
Diet can play a significant role in managing inflammatory skin conditions such as dermatitis. Incorporating certain foods and nutrients into your diet, while avoiding others, may help to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.
Some foods that may be beneficial for inflammatory skin conditions include:
Fruits and vegetables: These are high in antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation. Berries, leafy greens, and brightly colored fruits and vegetables are particularly good choices.
Omega-3 fatty acids: These are found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as in flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. Omega-3s can help to reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
Probiotics: These are beneficial bacteria that are found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. They can help to improve gut health and support the immune system.
Vitamin D: This nutrient can be found in foods such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and mushrooms. It can also be synthesized in the skin when exposed to sunlight. It's important to be careful with sun exposure as UV rays can exacerbate skin conditions.
On the other hand, certain foods may be inflammatory and should be avoided or limited if you have inflammatory skin conditions. These include:
Refined carbohydrates: Foods such as white bread, pasta, and sugary snacks can spike blood sugar levels and promote inflammation.
Trans fats: These are found in processed foods, fried foods, and baked goods. They can increase inflammation in the body.
Dairy: Some people find that eliminating or reducing dairy can help to improve their skin condition.
Other tips to reduce inflammation:
The name of the game is gentleness! Minimal products, minimal touching, minimal makeup
Products used should have no SLS, parabens, fragrance or phlalates
Light Moisturizers should be used sparingly; no creams, butters, topical steroids, etc
Osmia Skincare specializes in treating perioral dermatitis and patients with inflammatory skin dermatitis rave about the black clay facial soap bar.
It's important to keep in mind that everyone is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's always a good idea to consult with a qualified practitioner, such as a licensed acupuncturist, before making any significant changes to your diet.
At Onyx Acupuncture & Integrative Health we use a combination of acupuncture needles, Celluma LED light technology, Chinese herbal formulas, vitamins and supplements, and dietary suggestions to address the root cause of each patients’ specific presentation of inflammatory skin conditions. Book a new patient appointment with us today and see clearer skin tomorrow!