The skin is the largest organ of the body and the most vulnerable to heat, moisture, sun exposure, food or chemical allergies, environmental toxins, stress and lack of sleep. Skin problems are signs that the body is not eliminating toxins properly and the immune system is reacting to stress or contaminants. Unlike conventional medicine, which treats the symptoms and results of skin problems, naturopathy attempts to relieve the underlying causes and triggers skin conditions.

Many off-the-shelf moisturizers contain perfumes that cause allergies in some people. Instead of using moisturizers, drink more water to keep the body hydrated and skin supple.

Naturopathic Remedies for Skin Disorders
Skin disorders are usually a sign of internal imbalance. Below are a few of the most common skin conditions and naturopathic treatments.


•Acne - Acne is caused by overproduction of hormones during the teenage years. Naturopathic remedies for acne include Vitamin E, Vitamin A, brewer"s yeast, and benzyl peroxide cream. Diet is also important. Eat high-protein food and fish. Drink plenty of water. Avoid oily foods, saturated fats, dairy products, processed sugars and caffeine.


•Dermatitis and Eczema - Dermatitis is a skin reaction resulting from direct contact with irritating chemicals, detergents, oils or acids. Eczema, a form of dermatitis, is an allergic reaction to plant oils, nickel, wool, fabric softeners and some soap can cause a skin reaction. Excessive scratching can cause the skin to become infected. First try to eliminate any contact with food, dairy or substances that may cause an allergic reaction. Try supplementing vitamin A, vitamin E and flaxseed oil.


•Psoriasis - Psoriasis is an excess of flaky skin cells, generally on the elbows, knees, nails, scalp and mouth. Stress can worsen symptoms of psoriasis. To treat psoriasis, first wet the skin, and then rub in some Vitamin E, mineral oil or petroleum jelly to keep the moisture in. Diet is also important when treating psoriasis: drink more water, drink vegetable juice, eat fruits and fish and take a Vitamin D supplement.


•Rosacea - Rosacea, which affects light-skinned adults, is characterized by red flushing and bumps on the face, a bulbous nose and visible blood vessels most likely caused by bacterial infection in the gastrointestinal tract. Wash the face gently with warm water. Try zinc-oxide supplements. Avoid hot and spicy food, alcohol, caffeine and chocolate. Drink more water. Protect the skin from the sun when outdoors.

Naturopathic treatment is a healing process that uses natural products, nutrition, herbs, lifestyle changes, yoga and exercise to heal the body and mind without the use of chemicals and invasive procedures. Naturopathy aims to remove toxins, cleanse the body, and create balance to enhance emotional and physical well-being.