Acne is one of the most common yet misunderstood skin conditions, with countless myths circulating on what causes it and how to treat it. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and modern science, certain lifestyle factors are believed to impact skin health and contribute to acne. In this article, we’ll debunk some popular TCM acne myths.
Read more
Hives can be an uncomfortable and persistent skin condition. Often linked to stress, allergies, or changes in the environment, hives can disrupt daily life with itching, swelling, and inflammation. Fortunately, TCM offers a holistic approach that focuses on the Five Elements Theory, which emphasises rebalancing the body to alleviate symptoms effectively. Keep reading to learn how individuals can achieve better skin health through a natural and tailored TCM treatment.
Read more
When the patient decided to discontinue the use of steroid creams, her condition deteriorated drastically. Intense redness, aggravated oozing, and severe pain signaled the first wave of steroid withdrawal. This phase was particularly difficult, as her skin experienced heightened sensitivity and inflammation.
Read more
When biological drugs are withdrawn, the immune system gradually returns to its pre-treatment state, including the reactivation of pro-inflammatory pathways. This can lead to a resurgence of psoriasis symptoms, as the inflammatory processes responsible for the skin lesions resume. Furthermore, the long-term effects of biological therapies may also influence the skin’s immune tolerance, and once the suppression is lifted, the disease may return more aggressively.
Read more
Inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema involve immune system dysregulation and skin inflammation, which alcohol can worsen through various pathways. Facial flushing, capillary dilation, and other adverse effects from alcohol consumption are primarily caused by acetaldehyde accumulation, a metabolic byproduct of alcohol. After drinking, alcohol is metabolized in the liver by alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), converting ethanol into acetaldehyde.
Read more
Why does a patient with eczema experience worsening symptoms when living in Singapore, while their rashes significantly subside when they reside in the United States? Furthermore, why does their eczema improve noticeably when staying on Indonesia’s Batam Island, which shares a similar geographic location and climate with Singapore?
Read more
Immune system booster medications, often referred to as immunostimulants or immune enhancers, are substances that enhance the immune system’s ability to fight infections and diseases. These medications can be natural or synthetic and are used in various clinical settings to improve immune response, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems due to illness, stress, or other factors.
Read more
A 10-year-old girl with a one-year history of vitiligo on her left upper eyelid began treatment with our traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Over a four-year period, her condition showed gradual improvement as documented by a series of photographs.
Read more
Singapore’s geographical position near the equator subjects it to intense sunlight, which paradoxically contributes…
Read more
Biological immunosuppressants, often called biologics, represent a more advanced category of immunosuppressive agents. They are isolated from a variety of natural sources – human, animal, or microorganism and are designed to suppress specific pathways or molecules in the immune system with precision.
Read more
Managing eczema can be a challenging journey for many patients. The condition affects not only the skin but also the overall…
Read more
The initial inflammation is severe, with visible swelling and thickened plaques, redness is pronounced in the early stages, with extensive erythema covering the affected areas. The mid-treatment phase shows an exacerbation of these symptoms, due to the cessation of steroids, which often leads to a temporary worsening before improvement. By the end of the treatment, inflammation has greatly reduced, with skin returning to a normal appearance.
Read more
Human skin has become progressively thinner and more fragile, with an average thickness now not exceeding 4 millimeters. As we age, especially in later years, the stratum corneum becomes more dehydrated, thinner, and prone to redness and allergic reactions.
Read more
A 50-year-old woman was diagnosed with Sweet’s Syndrome after experiencing fever, abdominal pain, and painful bumps on her left hand. She opted for traditional Chinese herbal medicine over steroid treatment and experienced relief. This alternative remedy led to the disappearance of her symptoms within a month, demonstrating potential as a first-line treatment for Sweet’s Syndrome.
Read more
Despite the dermatological manifestations, nilotinib therapy was continued without dose adjustment. Topical steroids, turmeric tablets, and flaxseed oil supplements were discontinued. Instead, an herbal medicine was prescribed, and after 12 months of treatment, the rashes had disappeared, and the patient’s hair had regrown.
Read more
The study found that for every 1-gram increase in urinary sodium excretion, there was an 11% increase in the likelihood of being diagnosed with eczema, a 16% increase in the likelihood of having active eczema, and an 11% increase in the likelihood of experiencing more severe eczema symptoms.
Read more
The before-and-after images of her eczema treatment reveal a profound transformation in her skin’s condition. Initially, her skin exhibited a rough, uneven texture with marked thickening and pronounced dark, reddish-brown discoloration. Extensive erythema and significant scaling, flaking, and small fissures were evident, exacerbating the appearance of the affected areas and indicating substantial irritation and discomfort.
Read more
The images provided illustrate the healing process of an adult suffering from hand eczema treated with herbal medicine over eight months. This journey highlights the transition from conventional steroid treatment to herbal medicine, demonstrating the potential effectiveness of natural remedies in managing eczema symptoms.
Read more
By the end of the 4th month, lesions on his palms had diminished and remained stable, achieving full remission by the 12th month. However, healing for his feet took longer and was more unpredictable. Previous steroid use led to fluctuating eczema evolution, especially on his feet, where heavy steroid application occurred.
Read more
A 46-year-old lady found herself in a relentless battle with finger eczema. What initially appeared as mild irritation soon escalated into painful flare-ups, rendering even the simplest tasks challenging. Desperate for relief, she sought help from her dermatologist, who prescribed a potent steroid cream to calm her inflamed skin.
Read more
The extended period of poor blood flow and tissue damage results in full-thickness skin loss with extensive tissue necrosis, involving muscle and supporting structures, leading to Stage-4 Pressure Ulcers.
Read more
The patient, a 45-year-old, underwent thigh amputation following a vehicular trauma. Despite initial medical intervention, the surgical site wound showed reluctance to heal, resulting in an open deep wound. Over a period of three months, various brands of topical antibiotics were administered, but the wound remained unresolved.
Read more
A 35-year-old woman who was otherwise healthy embarked on a challenging journey, grappling with worsening pain and blistering rashes that had plagued her palms for three years. Despite previous attempts with corticosteroid cream, relief remained elusive, prompting her to seek alternative non-immunosuppressive treatment in our clinic.
Read more
Skin folliculitis is a common condition characterized by inflammation of hair follicles, typically caused by bacterial, fungal, or viral infections, as well as factors like friction, poor hygiene, and certain medical conditions. Other contributing factors include ingrown hairs, hot and humid environments, tight clothing, and exposure to irritants or allergens. Inflammation may be superficial or deep in the hair follicle.
Read more
TCM encompasses a wide range of treatments, aimed at restoring balance and harmony in the body. While these treatments can promote holistic well-being and prevent recurring illnesses, they also serve as an effective alternative to enhancing skin health and improving complexion. As such, let’s take a look at five common TCM treatment techniques and explore their impact on your skin health!
Read more
According to TCM principles, various skin conditions such as acne, eczema or dryness can stem from certain dietary options that disrupt harmony within various organs. For example, acne is associated with excess heat in the body, often attributed to excessive consumption of spicy or greasy foods. This then begs the question – What are the dietary choices that facilitate radiant and healthy skin? Let’s explore this further!
Read more
In TCM for skin, the body is seen as a complex system where balance and harmony among various organs are crucial for maintaining good health. But how exactly does all of this work? Let’s explore the link between body wellness and your skin through the lens of TCM to help you better understand holistic health.
Read more
A 25-year-old woman, originally from overseas, had been dealing with eczema for a decade and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis for five years. She had been managing her mild eczema with moisturizers and antihistamines until she received her 4th COVID-19 vaccination in 2022. After the third jab, she experienced a flare-up of eczema on her arms and legs. Despite treatment efforts with dermasone cream and oral steroids (prednisolone), her condition worsened. In search of relief, she also experimented with various treatment creams from online sources.
Read more
Are you noticing thick, red patches of skin or dry and cracked skin that itch or bleed? If so, you may be suffering from a chronic skin condition known as psoriasis, which can cause discomfort and lower your quality of life. Fortunately, traditional Chinese medicine offers treatments, such as acupuncture, non-bleeding cupping therapy, and herbal remedies, that can alleviate symptoms and improve your comfort.
Read more
The herbal TCM treatment regimen proved to be effective in treating pediatric psoriasis, achieving significant improvement in lesion appearance and skin texture. Unlike conventional topical immunosuppressant treatments, herbal TCM compounds did not result in side effects or rebound flares upon discontinuation. This case highlights the potential of herbal medicine as a safe and effective alternative for managing pediatric psoriasis as first line therapy.
Read more
An adolescent boy arrived with a challenging case of moderate acne, characterized by inflamed lesions and stubborn redness. Upon examination, his skin resembled a battlefield, marked by vivid redness and blemishes that painted a picture of severity. To address his acne symptom, we initiated a tailored herbal compound regimen.
Read more
The treatment plan implemented over the 14 months appears to have been highly effective, particularly for individuals not using immunosuppressants. The progression suggests a gradual healing process, with significant improvement noted by month 7, ultimately leading to full recovery by month 14.
Read more
Ever invested hundreds of dollars in the best skincare products and even gone to the extremes to keep your face clean…
Read more
Palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP), also known as pustulosis palmaris et plantaris, is an uncommon chronic pustular condition that primarily affects the palms and soles. This condition is closely related to the common skin ailment, psoriasis. An additional variant known as acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau (ACH) or acropustulosis specifically impacts the tips of the digits.
Read more
Embracing a holistic health philosophy, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) unveils its profound wisdom by viewing the…
Read more
Unwilling to immediately proceed with immunosuppressants, she visited our clinic seeking a third opinion and expressing interest in alternative natural medicine approaches. Opting for a holistic approach, she embarked on a journey guided by tailored herbal formulas. Remarkably, her ACLE entered remission, and the facial rash that once seemed indomitable took just four months to fully clear. Immunology testing, including ANA, revealed a surprising negative result.
Read more
In a notable case, we share the success story of an 18-year-old with penile vitiligo, effectively treated with TCM herbal medicine. This not only highlights the efficacy of TCM in addressing vitiligo but also underscores its commitment to providing a safe and natural solution for those seeking relief from this skin condition.
Read more
Eczema is a chronic, incurable skin condition that plagues millions of people worldwide, causing uncomfortable symptoms such as redness, itching, and inflammation. However, while there is no definitive cure, eczema flare-ups and its symptoms can be prevented and managed with the time-honoured Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Learn more about skin health from a TCM perspective and how TCM can help with eczema.
Read more
Hives are a skin condition that causes red, raised, and often itchy welts of varying sizes on the skin. In TCM, they are believed to be the result of stagnation or blockage in the body’s Qi and Blood. If you struggle with hives, there are ways to manage the condition and prevent it from worsening. Learn more about how TCM aids in the treatment and management of hives below.
Read more
Symptoms of fungal acne include a sudden breakout of small pimples resembling a rash, often forming in clusters with a distinctive red border or ring around each pimple. The affected skin may feel burning, itching, or pain. While these blemishes can appear anywhere on the body, they are most common on the chin, chest, forehead, neck, upper arms, shoulders, and upper back. Understanding the nuances of fungal acne, its triggers, and symptoms is crucial for accurate identification and effective management of this specific skin condition.
Read more
