Acupuncture for Clearer, Healthier Skin!
Our skin is the body’s largest, most visible organ, so it should come as no surprise that there are literally hundreds of ailments that can potentially undermine the health and appearance of our skin. Skin disorders can range from mild to severe, from embarrassing to physically disabling, and everything in between. Some, like acne, are pretty common and can affect nearly everyone at some point in their lives; others are extremely uncommon and can be very difficult to diagnose. Some skin ailments are acute, appearing suddenly and unexpectedly, while others are chronic, developing and persisting over a long period of time. Yet any skin condition can dramatically undermine our appearance, our health, and our wellbeing.
Skin conditions can be exceedingly tricky to treat successfully. Often, patients repeatedly cycle through a variety of different treatments, including (but of course not limited to) topical creams and ointments, prescription medications, steroid injections, antibiotics, and even laser therapy. Yet all too often, these treatment approaches are either entirely ineffective or provide only temporary relief. Many individuals suffer for years with pain, discomfort, itchiness, dry and scaly skin, and other difficult symptoms, unable to find lasting relief.
For patients who have been unsuccessfully struggling with a skin ailment, acupuncture may provide a potential solution!* Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese technique that involves stimulating key trigger points across the body to activate the body’s self-healing mechanisms. The fact is, our body has the incredible ability to identify and resolve many health problems; unfortunately, critical imbalances within the body can block or hinder this self-healing capability. Thus, the goal of acupuncture is to enable the body to heal itself by addressing systemic imbalances and promoting inner strength and wellness. For individuals coping with skin ailments, acupuncture may help provide some relief from painful and embarrassing symptoms.
How Does Acupuncture Work to Treat Skin Conditions?
Unfortunately, modern medicine tends to view every problem in isolation, with the underlying assumption that a skin problem is caused by a problem within the skin alone. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), including acupuncture, embraces a more holistic view of the body: that a problem in one area is likely connected to and caused by underlying problems across the body as a whole. A problematic skin condition may be only the most visible symptom of a systemic imbalance deep within the body. Thus, treating the skin condition requires identifying and treating the underlying imbalance!
In the treatment of skin conditions (broadly speaking), acupuncture is designed to stimulate specific trigger points along the body that regulate the immune and the endocrine systems. As acupuncture needles trigger “micro-traumas” in key areas, the body reacts by increasing blood flow throughout the body, as well as simulating a hormonal response. In addition, acupuncture improves the body’s natural immune system responses, thus reducing inflammation and clearing toxins that may be inhibiting the body’s ability to heal. Thus, by restoring the body’s natural homeostasis, it may be possible to resolve the visible symptoms on the skin caused by the original imbalance!
It is important to note that acupuncture is not a magic solution, nor does it work instantaneously. Restoring the body’s natural homeostasis causing a problematic skin condition may take time and persistence, and involve a variety of techniques integrated into a comprehensive treatment program. Acupuncture can also help promote overall wellness by focusing on stress management, sleep issues, and digestive concerns that may be undermining your health and contributing to skin ailments. Yet as part of a holistic treatment plan, acupuncture may help contribute to healthier skin, improve your energy levels, and stimulate your overall wellbeing!*
*Disclaimer: Results may vary and cannot be guaranteed. Before starting treatment, including acupuncture, for any skin condition, patients should see a dermatologist and/or a primary care physician.
For more information about how acupuncture and other treatments can help you, please contact the Urban Acupuncture Center Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturist’s team at Indianola Ave, Clintonville (614) 725-2488 | Main St, Westerville (614) 426-4406 or click here. Taking new patients in and around greater Columbus, Ohio.