Skin Conditions

Skin conditions vary widely by their causes and symptoms. Common skin conditions include, but are not limited to, acne, shingles (post-hepatic neuralgia), dermatitis, eczema and rashes associated with contagious diseases. It important that the underlying cause of a skin condition is considered in addition to the symptoms of a skin condition for example polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) may be a hormonal cause of acne so topical treatment alone may not be effective.

Historically, the Chinese medical classical texts referred to the treatment of skin conditions (pí fū jí bìng). Skin conditions were assessed according to their colour, moisture (eg. dry, wet, oozing or exuding pus), shape (raised or flat) and sensations (eg. itch). These factors were assessed in conjunction with the onset of the condition and the accompanying symptoms.

A systematic review found that acupuncture may improve “outcome measures in the treatment of dermatitis, chloasma, pruritus, urticaria, hyperhidrosis, and facial elasticity”.

The pain of post-hepatic neuralgia (a complication of herpes zoster or shingles), according to this systematic review, may be reduced with “Chinese herbal medicine in addition to pharmacotherapy… Oral Chinese herbal medicine alone or combined with pharmacotherapy appeared to be safe.”

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