Our overall well-being greatly relies on the health of our skin, given its role as a safeguard against external threats and its impact on our physical appearance and self-confidence. Integrative dermatology, a combination of conventional medicine and a holistic approach to skin care, emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and environment to promote optimal skin health.
Dr. Katie Manno, a board-certified dermatologist at Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute, spent some time with us talking about how integrative medicine has proven to be effective in treating various skin conditions, as well as improving overall skin health.
Q: What is integrative medicine?
Integrative medicine is a rapidly growing field in which practitioners bridge the gap between the best of conventional allopathic training and treatment with pharmaceutical therapy, with the more holistic options that complementary and alternative medicine have to offer. The practice is evidence-based and provides treatment modalities that can significantly augment the current standard of care in dermatology with a more comprehensive approach when caring for patients who have dermatologic problems. The expansion of care encompasses many different approaches, including nutrition, herbs, supplements, off-label medications, lifestyle changes, mind-body techniques, and specialized testing when appropriate.
Integrative dermatology aims to address the underlying causes of skin conditions, enhance the body’s innate healing abilities, and achieve long-lasting results by integrating conventional medical practices with complementary and alternative therapies. This multidimensional approach to skin care recognizes the importance of lifestyle factors and individualized treatment plans, empowering individuals to achieve vibrant, healthy skin from the inside out.
Q: Why seek out integrative dermatology?
Traditional medicine primarily acknowledges the symptoms you encounter and employs those same symptoms to ascertain a condition and formulate a course of treatment. This approach frequently involves prescribing suitable medications that will alleviate the symptoms. Integrative dermatology can offer holistic treatment plans that combine Western medicine and pharmaceutical therapies with data-driven complementary and alternative therapies. Integrative dermatology considers the whole body and mind, as well as environmental factors, when creating an individualized treatment plan.
For example, an integrative dermatology treatment plan for acne or eczema will include standard prescription medication options alongside suggestions for lifestyle changes, including, but not limited to, skin care routines, possible dietary alterations, and the use of supplements. Set up a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist who has an IDCP certification. They will work with you to create a treatment plan that works.
Q: What does it mean to be IDCP certified?
The Integrative Dermatology Certificate Program (IDCP) is a nine-month, evidence-based, intensive course with weekly lessons and exams. It is designed by board-certified dermatologists, and only dermatologists are eligible to become certified. It is currently the only program of its kind that teaches integrative medicine within the scope of dermatology.
Q: What are some easy tips for selecting skin-friendly foods?
In general, to promote healthy, glowing skin, I encourage patients to try and avoid added sugar, trans-fats, and deep-fried and highly processed foods in their diets. I recommend increasing fiber intake to slow blood sugar spikes. Foods you want to incorporate include antioxidants, healthy fats, proteins, and powerful carbohydrates such as beans, lentils, whole grains, and probiotic foods.
If you are dealing with a specific condition, there are more additional tailored recommendations. For example:
- A patient with psoriasis may benefit from focusing on a whole-food Mediterranean diet. I recommend incorporating anti-inflammatory foods such as omega-3 rich, cold-water fish (e.g., salmon), a variety of vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes such as beans, and spices and herbs, such as garlic, turmeric, and ginger. This will not only help cut down inflammation, but it also helps reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease, which can coincide with psoriasis.
- For a patient with acne, you should eat low-glycemic index foods (foods that do not cause quick increases in blood sugar levels), avoid trans/saturated fats, and, for some, perhaps even cut out dairy. Increasing fiber intake, antioxidant-rich foods, omega-3s, and foods with high zinc content, such as oysters, pumpkin seeds, mushrooms, and spinach, can be very beneficial for an acne patient.
Integrative dermatology offers a holistic approach to skin health, combining traditional dermatological practices with complementary therapies to achieve optimal results. By addressing the underlying causes of skin issues and considering the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and skin, integrative dermatology presents a promising path toward long-lasting skin wellness. If you are seeking personalized and comprehensive care, schedule an appointment with an IDCP board-certified dermatologist at Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute. Empower yourself to embark on a transformative journey toward healthier, more radiant skin. Your skin deserves the best care available!
About the Author
Katie Manno, M.D. – Dr. Manno is a Board-Certified Dermatologist at Skin Cancer & Dermatology Institute’s Reno-Monte Vista location. Dr. Manno is passionate about practicing medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with a special emphasis on integrative approaches. In 2023, she successfully completed a comprehensive nine-month certification program in integrative dermatology. She highly values the opportunity to provide holistic care to individuals of all age groups, emphasizing long-term patient relationships. Her unwavering dedication lies in delivering high-quality health care to the Reno-Tahoe community.
Your Greater Reno-Tahoe area dermatology experts combine market-leading skin and patient care with the most advanced technology and lasers. Some of our locations include Carson City, Elko, Fallon, Reno, and Incline Village. You can make an appointment online or call us at 775-324-0699.
