Psychodermatology Intro
Psychodermatology
Mostly I write about things I know but occasionally I write to learn. In my reading this past couple of weeks I ran across an emerging specialty called psychodermatology. This is new enough that my spell check doesn’t know what to do with it.
This type of field makes sense to me because we learned in embryology in my undergrad courses that the brain and skin come from the same embryonic tissue and stay connected throughout life. For example, how hard is it for you to know something about the intent of another person’s touch? Pretty easy, right??
This topic interests me because a couple of people in my family had (or have) battles with eczema and also emotional issues. I have wondered about the connection.
As you work on your health, it is good to watch out for signs like skin problems that may give you clues to your brain and emotional health.
Psychodermatology is the interdisciplinary field that studies the connection between the mind and skin. It addresses how mental and emotional states can affect skin conditions, and how disfiguring or chronic skin diseases can lead to psychological issues like depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. This field uses a combination of psychological and psychiatric treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and medications, alongside standard dermatology care to manage these interconnected conditions.
How it works
Mind-to-skin connection: Stress, anxiety, and depression can trigger or worsen certain skin conditions. Conversely, a chronic skin condition can have a severe impact on a person's mental health.
Treatment Approaches
Psychological therapies: Techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), stress management, and hypnosis can be used to address behaviors and thought patterns.
Medications: Psychotropic medications like antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs may be prescribed to treat underlying psychiatric issues.
Other therapies: Treatments can also include relaxation techniques, biofeedback, and habit reversal therapy.
Obviously, this was meant to be a quick overview and maybe give you some ideas about how you might better improve your own health.
How you apply supplements to different emotional-skin scenarios will vary on a case-by-case basis. For example, for eczema you would probably benefit from supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, vitamin D and maybe a probiotic.
Nordic Naturals Nordic Berries (Cherry Berry) 120 gummies
Nordic Naturals Vitamin E Complex 30sg
DS 2025