An Integrative Approach to Dermatology

The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is on the rise in the United States, with up to 40% of adults using these therapies and up to 85% of dermatology patients reporting their use. CAM treatments, such as dietary and herbal supplements, are particularly popular among older women. In addition, many dermatologists themselves report personal use of dietary supplements.

Integrative Dermatology recognizes that various factors influence the health of the skin and that the skin is not an isolated organ. By addressing the underlying causes of skin issues, integrative dermatology can offer more comprehensive and effective treatment options for patients. This article will explain integrative dermatology, when to consider seeing an integrative dermatologist, the analysis and treatment approaches of these practitioners, and tips on finding an integrative dermatology specialist that is right for you. 

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What is Integrative Dermatology?

Integrative dermatology is a holistic approach to skincare and skin conditions that incorporates conventional medical practices and complementary and alternative therapies. This approach recognizes that the skin's health is influenced by various factors, including nutritional deficiencies and other contributing factors, and that the skin is not an isolated organ. By addressing the underlying causes of skin issues, integrative dermatology can offer more comprehensive and effective treatment options for patients.

The increasing popularity of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in some western countries has led practitioners in dermatology, like naturopathic doctors and other health practitioners, to explore the use of herbal medicine and other alternative approaches to supplement or replace conventional dermatologic practice. The goal is to provide an integrative approach to dermatology that combines the knowledge from CAM, conventional practice, and the latest research findings.

The integrative dermatology approach recognizes that the skin is part of a whole body system and that its health is influenced by a person's overall well-being, including nutrition and stress levels. Integrative dermatology focuses on treating the whole person, rather than just the skin condition, to address the underlying causes of the problem and promote long-term healing.

Integrative dermatology practitioners may use a variety of therapies, including herbal remedies, acupuncture, dietary changes, and stress management techniques, to supplement or replace conventional treatments. Integrative dermatologists can offer patients a more comprehensive and personalized approach to their skin care needs by integrating these alternative therapies with conventional medical practices.

What Kind of Treatments and Procedures Does an Integrative Dermatologist Offer?

Integrative dermatologists recognize the important role that nutrition plays in skin health. They may offer dietary recommendations to support healthy skin, including improving nutrient absorption. For instance, both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Naturopathic Medicine emphasize the importance of diet in maintaining and improving skin health. In TCM, foods are categorized according to their "nature" and their ability to either cool or warm the body. They are often recommended or avoided based on their perceived effects on specific health conditions. Naturopathic Practitioners may also recommend individualized diets and nutritional supplements to support overall skin health. 

Integrative dermatologists may recommend topical treatments that contain natural ingredients, nutrients, and botanical extracts. These can help soothe and nourish the skin and address specific skin concerns like wrinkles, acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation. For example, the use of antioxidants, such as vitamins, polyphenols, and flavonoids, can help reduce collagen degradation.

Some practitioners may offer injectable treatments like Botox and fillers to address signs of aging, such as wrinkles and volume loss. They may also offer a range of treatments for inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis, including prescription medications, topical treatments, dietary recommendations, or addressing the multiple contributing factors related to those conditions. In the case of skin cancer, some dermatologists can diagnose and treat skin cancer using conventional medical treatments like surgery and radiation, as well as complementary therapies like acupuncture and herbal medicine.

Integrative dermatologists may also offer a range of esthetician treatments, such as facials, chemical peels, laser therapy, and microdermabrasion, to help improve the overall health and appearance of the skin.

Overall, integrative dermatologists offer a range of treatments and procedures that aim to improve skin health from a holistic perspective. By addressing the underlying causes of skin concerns and taking a whole-body approach to care, integrative dermatologists can help patients achieve healthy, glowing skin.

When to See an Integrative Dermatologist

If you're struggling with persistent skin issues that haven't responded to traditional dermatological treatments or want a more holistic approach, an integrative dermatologist may be a good option. Integrative dermatologists take a whole-body approach to skincare, looking beyond conventional topical and medical treatments. They often incorporate complementary and alternative therapies like herbal medicine, acupuncture, and mind-body techniques.

Some common skin issues that integrative dermatologists can help with include chronic conditions like eczema or psoriasis, concerns about aging skin, and persistent acne that hasn't responded to traditional treatments. By addressing the root causes of skin issues, integrative dermatologists aim to achieve long-term improvement rather than just temporary relief.

One of the key ways that integrative dermatologists differ from traditional dermatologists is by incorporating complementary and alternative therapies. For example, they may recommend specific dietary changes or nutritional supplements to support healthy skin or prescribe acupuncture to help with stress management.

Overall, seeing an integrative dermatologist may be worth considering if you're looking for a more personalized and holistic approach to skincare. They can help you understand the root causes of your skin concerns and provide a range of treatment options to help you achieve healthy, radiant skin.

Do Integrative Dermatologists Run Labs? 

Integrative dermatologists are healthcare professionals who combine conventional dermatology with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches to provide comprehensive and personalized care for their patients. One way that integrative dermatologists may enhance their practice is by incorporating laboratory testing into their diagnostic and treatment plans.

Lab testing can provide valuable information about a patient's nutritional status, hormonal balance, liver function, and other factors that may be contributing to their skin health concerns. 

Hormone Imbalances

In the case of acne, imbalances in androgen hormones or other hormones such as IGF-1 can trigger acne responses. A comprehensive look at hormones via the DUTCH Complete test can provide valuable insight into hormone-related acne. 

Altered Microbiome

For other inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, lab tests to assess for microbiome imbalances may be helpful, as an imbalance in the microbiome can contribute to these conditions. A comprehensive stool test, such as the GI-MAP, is a good consideration in cases where a disturbance to the microbiome is a possible contributing factor. 

Nutrient Deficiencies

Deficiencies in nutrients such as zinc, vitamin C, and antioxidants can lead to decreased collagen production and oxidative stress, leading to skin issues such as wrinkles or hyperpigmentation. A Micronutrient Panel is a test to assess for deficiencies in these nutrients. 

Metabolism and Clearance

By taking a more holistic approach, these practitioners may also look at other labs, such as liver enzymes, to assess liver function, as the liver is responsible for hormone metabolism and clearance. A full Liver Panel can help assess the liver's function in these cases. 

Stress

Stress can be a major contributing factor to skin conditions and is often related to triggering an inflammatory skin response. Therefore, utilizing a test like the Advanced Adrenal Stress Test can be indicated in determining if managing the stress response can help improve the skin condition. 

Integrative dermatologists may also use lab testing to monitor the effectiveness of treatment plans and adjust them as needed. Integrative dermatologists often achieve better patient outcomes with this holistic approach to patient care by addressing underlying imbalances or deficiencies.

Do Integrative Dermatologists Take Insurance?

Integrative dermatologists will sometimes take insurance, just like traditional dermatologists. However, it's important to note that insurance coverage may vary depending on the specific treatments and therapies being used. Some insurance plans may cover certain complementary and alternative therapies, while others may not.

If you're considering seeing an integrative dermatologist, check with your insurance provider to see what's covered under your plan. You may also want to ask the integrative dermatologist's office about their policies regarding insurance coverage.

In some cases, integrative dermatologists may offer a range of payment options to help make their services more affordable. These may include payment plans or sliding-scale fees based on income.

Ultimately, the cost of seeing an integrative dermatologist will depend on a number of factors, including the specific treatments and therapies being used, your insurance coverage, and the individual policies of the integrative dermatologist's office. However, many people find that the benefits of integrative dermatology, including a more holistic approach to skincare, are well worth the investment.

How to Find an Integrative Dermatologist?

There are many different types of practitioners that offer integrative dermatology services. They include nurse practitioners, physicians, naturopathic doctors, aestheticians, herbalists, and other health practitioners. If you're interested in seeing an integrative dermatologist, there are several steps you can take to find a qualified practitioner.

Do Your Research 

Start by looking online for integrative dermatologists in your area. You can also ask for referrals from your primary care physician or other healthcare providers.

Look For Specializations 

Some integrative dermatologists may specialize in certain areas, such as pediatric dermatology, skin cancer, or natural skincare. Consider your specific needs and look for a practitioner who specializes in the areas you're interested in.

Check Certifications 

Look for integrative dermatologists who have completed additional training or certifications in complementary and alternative therapies, such as functional medicine, naturopathic medicine, or attained an integrative health practitioner certification. 

Read Reviews 

Check online reviews and ratings from previous patients to get a sense of the practitioner's reputation and patient satisfaction.

Consider Insurance 

If you have insurance, check with the integrative dermatologist you're considering and determine whether using insurance or a cash-pay practice is better for you. 

By taking these steps, you can find an integrative dermatologist who is qualified, experienced, and a good fit for your needs.

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Summary

Integrative Dermatology offers patients a personalized, holistic approach to skincare and skin conditions. By addressing the underlying causes of skin issues, integrative dermatologists can provide more comprehensive and effective treatment options. Integrating complementary and alternative therapies with conventional medical practices offers patients a wider range of treatment options and can improve long-term health outcomes.

Integrative dermatologists often combine conventional dermatology treatments, such as medications and procedures, with complementary therapies like nutrition counseling, herbal medicine, and stress management techniques. By addressing the underlying causes of skin conditions, such as inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies, integrative dermatologists can often achieve better long-term outcomes for their patients.

In addition to personalized treatment plans, integrative dermatologists may also offer patients a range of diagnostic tools, such as laboratory testing, to help identify underlying imbalances or deficiencies that may be contributing to their skin concerns. By taking a more holistic approach to patient care, integrative dermatology can not only address skin issues but also improve overall health and well-being.

Integrative Dermatology offers patients a personalized, whole-person approach to skincare that can lead to improved outcomes and a better quality of life.