Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis TCM | Contact dermatitis acupuncture

Contact dermatitis is a common skin condition caused by an allergic reaction to an external substance. Its main characteristics are redness, swelling, itching, blisters, and rashes, usually occurring at the site of contact with the allergen. The hands (housewife’s hands) are the most common location, often due to contact with water, household cleaners, or wearing gloves.

Causes of Contact Dermatitis

Contact with allergens: The main cause is skin contact with an allergen, such as cosmetics, cleaners, metals, plants, or medications, which can trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
Immune system response: When the skin comes into contact with an allergen, the immune system releases chemicals like histamine, leading to inflammation and allergic symptoms.
Genetic factors: Heredity can also make an individual more susceptible to allergic reactions to certain substances.
Common Irritants or Allergens: Industrial chemicals Detergents and cleaners Nickel Hair dyes Rubber gloves

Symptoms of Contact Dermatitis

Redness, swelling, and itching: The skin may become red, swollen, and itchy at the site of contact with the allergen.
Blisters and rashes: In severe cases, the skin can develop blisters, rashes, and lesions, which can be very painful and uncomfortable.
Dryness and peeling: Some patients may experience dry, rough skin and peeling or flaking after exposure to the allergen.

Three main TCM subtypes of Contact Dermatitis

Damp-heat type: The skin is prone to redness, swelling, blisters, and itching, with a painful sensation. The lesions are usually moist.
Qi stagnation type: The skin presents with rashes, red spots, and blisters, with a dark purple color and significant tenderness that is slow to subside.
Gastrointestinal type: The skin is prone to dryness, inflammation, and peeling, accompanied by fatigue and poor appetite, indicating a spleen deficiency.

Three-step TCM treatment of Contact Dermatitis

Herbal medicine: The practitioner will prescribe herbs based on the patient’s symptoms and tongue/pulse diagnosis to regulate the immune system and alleviate the allergic reaction.

Topical ointment: The practitioner will also provide topical herbal ointments, washes, or lotions to relieve inflammation and itching at the affected area.

Acupuncture: Acupuncture can regulate the flow of Qi and blood, enhance immune function, and alleviate the skin’s itchiness.

Innovative “MANA Light” therapy

Combining traditional TCM treatment and modern technology, our clinic has introduced a phototherapy device used alongside acupuncture for contact dermatitis.

Based on the patient’s condition, we can select red, yellow or blue light therapy to achieve the best results.

Research shows blue light has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and soothing anti-itch effects, effectively reducing skin redness, swelling and itchiness.

Red light can promote blood circulation and cellular metabolism, stimulate pigment production, and enhance the cells’ light absorption, aiding wound healing and improving skin elasticity.

Yellow light has a calming and soothing effect, improving redness and broken capillaries, making it especially suitable for sensitive skin conditions.

With “MANA Light”, we can provide customized treatment plans to address different symptoms and needs, helping patients alleviate the discomfort of contact dermatitis.

This therapy combines traditional TCM and modern technology, leveraging the strengths of both to promote skin recovery and restore health.

MANA Core Values

Integration of Eastern and Western Medicine, Multidimensional Therapy
Reshaping Structural Integrity to Achieve Inner and Outer Balance
Guiding Body Perception to Think & Foster a Healthy Lifestyle
Conducted by Registered TCM Practitioners and Physiotherapists for Examination and Treatment

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