Skin Disorders

Are you bothered by itchy, inflamed, or otherwise unhealthy skin? Get to the root of your skin disorder with Mechelle Kennedy, NP-C, at Adaptations Wellness in Spring Branch, Texas. Mechelle dives below the surface to discover the cause of your discomfort and help you resolve it with gentle, alternative treatment options, including meal plans and dietary supplements. Learn more by booking an appointment online or over the phone today.

What are skin disorders?

The term “skin disorder” broadly describes any condition that affects your skin, such as:

• Acne (whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules and pimples, nodules, and cystic acne)
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Alopecia areata 
• Atopic dermatitis 
• Rosacea
• Raynaud’s phenomenon
• Vitiligo
• Hidradenitis suppurativa
  
  

Disorders such as these cause a wide range of uncomfortable, painful, and socially-isolating symptoms such as:

• Inflammation
• Itchiness
• Rashes
• Peeling skin
• Rough or scaly skin
• Dry skin
• Discolored skin patches
• White, red, and/or pus-filled bumps
• Ulcers, lesions, or open sores

Some skin conditions go away on their own, while others require treatment.

What causes skin disorders?

Skin disorders can be genetic, caused by underlying issues, or caused by external factors. Some of the most causes of skin disorders are:

• Viruses
• Diabetes
• Certain medications, like those that treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBS)
• Bacteria trapped in your hair follicles and pores
• Environmental triggers, like allergens and irritants
• Autoimmune disorders, thyroid conditions, and kidney conditions
• Fungus or parasites on the skin
• Skin trauma

Skin disorders can also be made worse by infections, stress, sugar, dairy, smoking, poor hygiene, or excess alcohol consumption. 

How do you diagnose skin disorders?

At Adaptations Wellness, Mechelle diagnoses your skin disorder by examining your skin visually and by touch, lightly palpating it, and considering its moisture, texture, color, and mobility and your nails’ color and shape. She checks for lesions and takes note of variables like:

• Your diet 
• Your lifestyle
• Any medications you take
• If you have any chronic conditions that could affect your skin, like diabetes
• What soaps, shampoos, lotions, oils, and other topical products you use regularly

Mechelle also considers behavioral issues, like nervous skin picking or scratching.

How do you treat skin disorders holistically?

Mechelle uses functional medicine for a holistic approach to treating skin disorders. She finds the root cause of your skin disorder and helps you heal it by:

• Removing environmental and food triggers
• Optimizing your gut health
• Rebalancing hormone levels
• Modifying your diet 
• Increasing your nutrient intake

She may also speed healing with antihistamines, lotions, medicated creams, ointments or gels, or antibiotics.

Your skin protects you every day. Thank it by giving it the care it deserves. If you’re troubled by one or more skin conditions, schedule an appointment at Adaptations Wellness online or over the phone today.