Olwen Anderson's Blog

Skin is not just a barrier between your insides and the rest of the world; it can give you some important clues about your state of health. 

There are two main layers to skin, the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (underlying layer). The epidermis has many layers of skin within it. Cell division occurs continually in the deeper layers, continually ‘pushing out’ new skin cells as the old ones are worn off by use. The underlying dermis is composed of collagen and elastic fibres to give shape and elasticity to the skin.

Melanin is secreted by special cells called melanocytes. They give your skin a tanned or brown colour depending on your genetic heritage. Pink colour comes from the level of oxygenation of your blood cells and the amount of blood circulating within your dermis.

Because there is such a high turnover of cells, your skin can give you valuable information about the internal state of your body. Complete replacement of your epidermis happens about every 40 days.  People in glowing health have, literally, glowing skin, which reflects the health of all their body cells. Unwell people have dull skin.

Although persistent skin problems should be professionally assessed, here are some typical reasons for their appearance. Remember when you read this list that there are usually several reasons why someone is unwell or why a skin problem has developed - not just one.

• Does your skin become exceptionally dry over winter? Check your intake of omega-3 oils.

• Exceptionally oily skin can indicate a hormone imbalance.

• Dandruff is known in naturopathic circles as ‘eczema of the scalp’ People who suffer from dandruff often eat more processed and dairy-rich foods than raw and unprocessed food.

• If you have pimples, take a look at your fat intake, and how much processed food you are eating. Acne can be a sign of hormones out of control, but also that your lymphatic system and liver are struggling. 

• Eczema often occurs in cases of dairy intolerance. It can also indicate bowel dysbiosis (bad bacteria in the bowel), a struggling liver, and a dysfunctional immune system.

• Psoriasis often occurs in cases of food intolerance, particularly wheat. As in other skin disorders, the liver and bowels usually need help too.

• Cracked skin on heels can indicate a serious imbalance in a person’s intake of omega-3 to omega-6 oils.

• Itchy skin with no obvious cause can indicate liver problems.

Obviously, if you have a skin sore that won’t heal, or a mole or birthmark that’s changing, you should seek professional advice as soon as possible.

This is not a solution list, but some ideas for you – always have chronic skin problems professionally assessed, as they may be a sign of a deeper problem.