Skin Disorders

The skin is both the largest organ of the body and its boundary. It protects the internal organs, eliminates waste and helps regulate body temperature and metabolism. Its sensory receptors alert us to touch, temperature and pain. Skin derives from the same cell layer in the embryo as the nervous system. Disorders affecting the skin include viral, bacterial and fungal infections, allergic reactions, rashes, and injuries. With the exception of certain cancers, skin disorders are rarely life-threatening, but may be uncomfortable or distressing. Both internal and external treatments can bring relief.

Practitioners of complementary medicine believe that the skin provides valuable clues to the body's general health. Emotional disorders and problems of the circulatory, digestive and excretory systems can all manifest as skin complaints. When treating acne or eczema, therefore, practitioners look for an underlying cause. Traditional Eastern medicine places great emphasis on the tone and colour of the skin as a diagnostic tool.