The Holistic Approach to Teen Skin Health: Chinese Herbal Medicine.
Hello everyone, and thank you for joining me today. My name is Katika Funnell, and I am a Chinese Herbal Medicine practitioner based in Brookvale and Warriewood. If you found me through my post on the Northern Beaches Mums Group or through the Facebook Live event, I’m delighted you’re here.
Today, I’d like to discuss a topic that concerns many parents: Teen Skin health. Teenage years often come with struggles, and skin issues can be one of the most visible and frustrating problems for teens and their families. If you are a parent of a teenager, feel free to share in the comments how old your teen is and what their biggest health challenge might be, especially regarding their skin.
The Facebook Live Video Clip is here:
The Link Between Teen Health and Skin
It’s important to recognise that skin issues may not always be the primary health concern for teenagers. Often, other signs like stress, anxiety, or depression can accompany skin problems. These can sometimes be related to hormonal imbalances or other underlying health issues. The body expresses its imbalances in various ways, and skin problems can be one such manifestation.
As a Chinese herbal medicine practitioner, my aim is to offer alternative strategies to the conventional medical treatments like antibiotics (such as doxycycline), which can be tough on gut health, or contraceptive pills prescribed to young women to balance hormones. These treatments may have side effects, and while they work for some, others may seek a more holistic, natural approach.
My Experience and Approach
With over 20 years of experience in Chinese Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture, I focus on offering parents different strategies when traditional methods may not have been effective or when they are looking for a more holistic approach. Chinese Herbal Medicine can be a valuable tool in this regard.
In practice, we look at the whole picture. The cause of skin issues could be related to digestion, liver function, or the immune system. Teenagers often experience multi-layered health challenges, and their skin problems may be tied to stress, anxiety, or other health concerns. I also see the importance of creating a neutral environment for teens, where they can be open about their health issues without feeling judged by their parents.
Teen Skin Health and Chinese Herbal Medicine
One concern I often hear from parents is how to get their teens to comply with a treatment plan. Teenagers might think their skin problems are just a normal part of growing up, and they might not see the value in seeking help. I encourage teens to think about it this way: the sooner you address a problem, the sooner you can find a solution. If skin issues affect their social interactions or self-esteem, it’s even more important to take action.
I also address concerns about the practicalities of Chinese Herbal Medicine. Parents often ask whether herbs are given in tablets, powders, or other forms. I aim to make this process as easy as possible. For example, I use capsules, tablets, or powdered herbs, depending on the patient’s preference and tolerance.
Addressing the Root Causes
Chinese Medicine offers a holistic approach to treating skin conditions. It's not just about what you apply to the skin, but also about addressing what’s happening inside the body. For example, we look at gut health, liver function, and overall digestion, which can all impact skin health. If a teen is constipated or has poor digestion, toxins can build up and show up on their skin.
Teenagers today face a lot of pressures, including the influence of social media on their perceptions of beauty and health. This can lead to a scattergun approach to skincare, where they try multiple products or methods without sticking to one long enough to see results. I recommend giving Chinese Herbal Medicine four to six weeks to show improvements in skin health, which is a reasonable period of time to see noticeable changes.
Introducing the Teen Acne Project
I’m excited to announce the Teen Acne Project, which I’ll be running again on August 16th. This program is designed to offer a four to six-week period of guided support to teens dealing with skin issues. The initial consultation can be face-to-face, and subsequent check-ins can be done via Zoom or in person.
Each week, I fine-tune the herbal prescriptions based on the teen’s progress. I look at not just their skin but also other indicators of health, such as energy levels, stress, and overall mood. The holistic approach means we focus on the whole picture, not just the skin.
If you have a teen struggling with acne or skin issues, or if you’re at the beginning of this journey and don’t know where to start, please reach out. I’m happy to answer any questions and provide professional guidance tailored to your teen’s needs.
For more information, you can email me at info@familywellnesscentre.com.au or send me a direct message on my Facebook page. I would love to help your teen regain their confidence and achieve healthy, clear skin. If you’re interested in joining the Teen Acne Project, the next session starts on August 16th.
Looking forward to connecting with you!
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