By Bridget Sullivan, PA-C, Coastal Skin Surgery and Dermatology PCB
Integrative dermatology is an approach to skin care that combines standard dermatology treatments with evidence-based lifestyle, nutrition, and complementary therapies. Integrative dermatology is intended to complement, not replace, proven medical treatments. Clinicians and patients will experience better outcomes when thinking about and treating “the whole patient” and not the specific medical condition alone. Including factors such as diet, lifestyle modifications, and daily routines can lead to a healthier lifestyle and a healthier patient. This article will review a few recommendations that I believe can benefit a person’s s skin health and reduce inflammation.
1.) Wash your pillowcases- Wash your pillowcases every 1-2 weeks, particularly if you have acne-prone skin. Pillowcases can accumulate skin oils and debris that can cause skin irritation and contribute to acne. Also, don’t forget to wash your face every night before going to bed.
2.) Avoid extreme temperatures when taking a shower or bath – most people enjoy a very hot bath or shower, but lukewarm water is best. Extremes of temperature can impair the skin barrier and can lead to dryness, itching, and increased inflammation.
3.) Smoking Cessation- Smoking cessation not only improves our lung health and life longevity, but it also improves the reduction of inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Stopping smoking also helps with surgical wound healing and scar outcomes and improves our skin quality and cosmetic concerns.
4.) Mediterranean Lifestyle Diet – This diet includes high fruits and vegetables, fish (omega-3 fatty acids), nuts (almonds and walnuts), and fermented foods (yogurt). This diet helps with reducing inflammation and improving metabolic health. This can help with conditions like acne, psoriasis, and rosacea.
5.) Daily Skin Moisturizers – Moisturizers containing the ingredients of: ceramides, glycerin, colloidal oatmeal, hyaluronic acid and petroleum can improve skin barrier function, hydration, and symptoms of itching and dryness. Examples include Aveeno, Cerave, Vaseline, and Vanicream. It is best to apply moisturizers right after getting out of the bath or shower. Daily moisturizer use can improve chronic inflammatory skin condition outcomes.
6.) Silicone gel and sheets for scars – best for raised scars and keloids. May reduce redness, itching and scar thickness. Best outcomes if used and applied for several months.
7.) Red light therapy face mask – this is an “at home” anti- aging device that can be used in conjunction with other important skin care products and treatments. Look for the red wavelength of 630-660 nm and near- infrared wavelength of 810-850 nm. Examples of FDA-cleared masks include Omnilux, Currentbody, and Therabody. Consult with your dermatology medical provider before purchasing and treatment to make sure you are the right candidate and that you do not have any contraindications for its use.
8.) Salicylic Acid for warts – requires daily application for several weeks.
9.) Toenail Fungus – some at-home tips that can help reduce the risk and help in the treatment of toenail fungus include white vinegar soaks, keeping nails trimmed short/ thin, change socks regularly, and avoid walking barefoot in the gym or sauna.
10.) Sleep Optimization- 7 or more hours of sleep per night on a regular basis are recommended. Getting enough sleep has been shown to help aid in decreasing inflammation, increase our skin barrier repair, accelerate wound healing, and improve immune function. Beauty sleep is more than just a saying!
Lifestyle modifications in our diet, daily routines, skin care products, and sleep can help improve our skin health and overall well-being and immune system. The skin is not separate from the person—it is a reflection of the internal health, lifestyle, environment, and experiences that shape us. As always, please reach out to your medical provider if you have any questions or concerns regarding your skin health and wellness.
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