Improving Skin Conditions with Natural Medicine

Overview of the Course Content, Instructor Self-Introduction, and Successful Case Studies of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Treating Skin Diseases such as Psoriasis and Seborrheic Dermatitis Published in International Journals.

Course Introduction:

"Looking Beneath the Skin" — Clinical Applications of Traditional Chinese Topical Treatments for Skin Conditions

Skin diseases are never just skin-deep. Challenging conditions like psoriasis or atopic dermatitis often stem from internal imbalances. However, explaining these underlying causes using complex medical jargon or ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theories can easily distance patients or make the concepts hard to grasp.

That’s why this course uses simple, relatable stories and real-life clinical examples to help patients and participants understand why skin issues tend to recur—and how they are closely tied to one’s overall physical condition.

Course Outline:

✦ Introduction to Traditional Chinese Topical Formulas

Chinese topical treatments go far beyond ointments. They include lotions, gels, sprays, washes, and more—each with unique advantages and indications. This section explores the diverse applications and principles behind these external remedies.

✦ Case Studies (Part 1): Appearance-Based Skin Concerns

These are conditions that don’t cause itching or pain but cause cosmetic distress. Conventional treatments often involve laser or cryotherapy, which may bring side effects like pain, inflammation, inconsistent results, or frequent recurrence. These conditions are usually classified as granulomatous tissue problems. We will share how Chinese medicine can provide gentler, effective alternatives.

✦ Case Studies (Part 2): Psoriasis

A chronic skin condition that affects millions worldwide, psoriasis is often labeled “incurable” in Western medicine. Treatment options are typically limited to steroid use or expensive biologic therapy. Through case sharing, we’ll demonstrate how Chinese medicine can offer holistic, sustainable relief through internal regulation and external treatment.

✦ Case Studies (Part 3): Scalp Conditions

Scalp issues can arise from various conditions, including psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, and folliculitis. In this module, we’ll organize and present case studies and treatment strategies based on these four common scalp disorders, focusing on both herbal medication and external applications.

This course is ideal for Chinese medicine practitioners, medical students, individuals with chronic skin issues, or anyone curious about natural topical treatments. Together, we’ll explore how the skin reflects what’s going on inside the body—and how Chinese medicine can help restore balance, inside and out.

Can we determine a patient's body constitution type based on the appearance of their skin surface?

Next, I will provide some real clinical photos of patients with dermatitis. Let’s see if you can guess which body constitution type each one belongs to. Multiple answers are allowed.

Modern Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Treating Skin Diseases: Case Reports and Clinical Insights

I. Introduction: Restrictions on Certain Chinese Herbs and Alternative Options

• Some commonly used herbs (such as ma huang / Ephedra) are restricted in certain countries (e.g., the United States)

• Therefore, alternative remedies will be briefly introduced

II. Case Reports: Published in International Journals in 2024

1. Psoriasis Cases Related to COVID-19

• Case 1: Psoriasis onset after COVID-19 infection

• Case 2: Psoriasis following Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccination

  • 28-year-old male developed widespread psoriasis after his second vaccine dose

  • No improvement after six months of Western medical treatment

  • Significant improvement after switching to TCM

  • Initial evaluation: 17% Body Surface Area affected, PASI score of 16.4

2. Chronic Seborrheic Dermatitis

• Many years of ineffective Western treatments

• Rapid and significant improvement with TCM

• Case report published in an international journal

III. Additional Notable Cases

• "In fact, there are many more fascinating cases. I will now share a few particularly memorable ones with you."

IV. Discussion and Conclusion

• Summary of key points from today’s presentation

• Reflections from the medical philosophy of Zhang Zhongjing:

  • Emphasis on supporting the body's natural healing process

  • Psoriasis can be understood as a purgative reaction of the body

  • The goal of TCM is to guide the disease along a self-correcting and healing path