Within Your Skin:

What Your Skin is Trying to Tell You

There is no greater sign of radiant health than clear, glowing skin. As the largest organ in your body, your skin says a lot about your health, and your face reflects the health of your internal systems. Not only is our skin the first line of defense against harmful pathogens, but it also plays a huge multifunctional role in regulating temperature, detoxification, and even Vitamin D production. Complex and intricate, it can be influenced by many factors, including diet, lifestyle, environment, and topical products.

While a relatively new trend in Western culture, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient therapy that looks at skin from a holistic internal and external perspective. It reflects our body’s internal imbalances, which are greatly affected by our lifestyle choices. You can spend hundreds of dollars on skin care serums, creams, etc., but you won’t see results if you do not identify the root cause and make changes. Through this lens, we can look deeper into what your skin may be trying to tell you.

Acne

Acne, the most common skin condition, is a complex form of skin inflammation related to diet & hormones and a sure indicator of imbalance within the body, specifically the gut microbiome. Depending on what type of acne and its location on the face provides clues as to where the imbalances are within the body. For example, breakouts around the cheekbones can be issues in the stomach and are usually accompanied by fatigue and digestive problems, but when on the lower cheeks, there may be imbalances in the liver or lungs due to respiratory issues, negative emotions, or prolonged stressful situations. The acne around the chin and jawline can be caused by hormonal imbalances related to the kidneys and the reproductive system, usually due to poor dietary choices and lifestyle habits. With any signs of acne, a clean diet and good hygiene, including regular morning and evening cleaning and moisturizing routine, is vital! Avoid touching the face, and change pillowcases every three days.
*For a customized evaluation, refer to a professional Esthetician or Dermatologist.

AVOID:
– Greasy, fried, or spicy foods that cause heat in the body and disrupt balance.
– Cold beverages and foods that weaken the digestive fire (Iced coffee, ice water, ice cream).
– Traditional Dairy is difficult to digest and can cause excess phlegm (milk, yogurt, cheese)

TRY: EMINENCE Acne Advanced Collection

Red/Sensitive Skin

85% of the world population can be classified as having “sensitive skin” identified by redness, irritation, and broken capillaries. While there are many types of sensitive skin conditions, the most common is Rosacea, a vascular skin condition caused by inflammation that encourages the blood vessels to enlarge, become permeable, and leak white blood cells within connective tissue, causing more swelling and blood vessels to form. Redness in the skin is a sign of heat in the body, often accompanied by dryness, constipation, and even anger and irritability. Heat can come from spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, too much red meat, and many other dietary factors. Heat can be managed by adding cooling, hydrating foods, stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing, accompanied by regular facial treatments to keep skin hydrated (super important) and balanced.
*For a customized evaluation, refer to a professional Esthetician or Dermatologist.

AVOID:
– Hot and Spicy foods that cause heat in the body and disrupt balance.
– Caffeine and alcohol, which dehydrate and deplete moisture.
– Red meat or rich animal-based foods.

TRY: EMINENCE Clear Skin Line

Dry/Dehydrated Skin

Dry skin is a common condition that can happen any time of the year but is more common in drier climates and when there is a lack of proper hydration at the cellular level. According to TCM, dry skin is a YIN deficiency, YIN meaning cooling, moistening, and nourishing qualities usually tied to the kidney and bladder. While diet and environment can significantly influence dry skin lacking vital oil and moisture, this is more prominent in aging skin as cell renewal naturally slows in our mid-20s and the moisture barrier breaks down, resulting in TEWL (transepidermal water loss). When this happens, fine lines and wrinkles can appear more prominent. Drinking more water is important but not always an adequate cure. That’s because when cells lack essential minerals, they won’t absorb water; the body just eliminates it. So it’s critical to eat a balanced diet with healthy fats, lots of vegetables, and even a sprinkle of quality sea salt in your water for better absorption. A quality creamy hydrating cleanser with hyaluronic acid serum and moisturizer can do wonders for parched skin.
*For a customized evaluation, refer to a professional Esthetician or Dermatologist.

AVOID:
– Dry processed or packaged foods like protein bars, crackers, popcorn
– Caffeine and alcohol, which dehydrate and deplete moisture

TRY: EMINENCE Stone Crop Line

It’s The Time of The Season…

Spring naturally brings inspiration, creativity, and energy, so it’s the perfect time of year to refresh your skin, detox your system, and start fresh with new routines that will prepare your body for the long summer days ahead!

• Try an acupuncture facial to get more Qi ( energy) lift, tighten, and tone your skin.
• Treat yourself to an oxygenating Glo2facial for a burst of hydrating serums that plump and hydrate skin.
• Shed dead, dry winter skin, revealing clear, youthful skin with a chemical peel.

Come see us at the Spa to learn more about what your skin is trying to tell you!

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About the Author

Roxanne Valinoti

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