Eczema: Blending Conventional Relief With Korean Herbal Medicine for Lasting Skin Health

[medi K / HEALTH IN NEWS] Eczema is a skin condition characterized by redness, scaling, oozing, swelling, and intense itching. When symptoms persist over time, the skin may thicken in a process known as lichenification, and hyperpigmentation can develop, making early treatment essential. Common forms include atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and nipple eczema.

Eczema arises from a complex interplay of environmental triggers, stress, and genetic factors. Experts note that these elements provoke an immune response in the skin, leading to inflammation.

Conventional treatment typically involves moisturizers, antihistamines, and topical steroids to alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, immunosuppressants may be prescribed. However, these approaches often provide only temporary relief and have limitations as long-term solutions.

raditional Korean medicine offers a holistic approach to eczema by treating internal imbalances and promoting skin regeneration, as explained by Kim Eui-jeong, director of Saenggi Oriental Medicine Clinic in Anyang.

In traditional Korean medicine, eczema is viewed as a manifestation of internal imbalances that profoundly influence the skin. A thorough assessment of the patient’s underlying issues is critical. After carefully evaluating constitutional factors, customized herbal prescriptions are provided to promote smooth circulation and effective toxin elimination. Depending on the skin’s condition, treatments such as pharmacopuncture, acupuncture, moxibustion, and phototherapy are used to facilitate inflammation clearance and skin regeneration.

By combining internal and external therapies, the body is enabled to create a healthy environment for natural toxin expulsion. The ultimate aim is not merely transient symptom relief but prevention of recurrence. Alongside treatment, improving daily habits to bolster immunity and strengthen the skin barrier is vital.

Eczema frequently occurs when internal circulation is impaired, preventing proper discharge of toxins and heat. Lifestyle practices that enhance circulation play a key role in prevention and symptom management. Activities such as half-body baths or aerobic exercise can be beneficial, along with adequate hydration, limiting irritating foods, wearing cotton clothing, maintaining regular sleep, and managing stress.

Eczema involves redness, scaling, and itching that can lead to skin thickening and pigmentation if untreated early; conventional care uses moisturizers and steroids for relief, while traditional Korean medicine addresses internal imbalances with herbs, acupuncture, and lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence.

Lim Hye Jung / press@themedik.kr

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Eczema: Blending Conventional Relief With Korean Herbal Medicine for Lasting Skin Health

[Physician's Column] By Kim Eui-jeong, Director of Saenggi Oriental Medicine Clinic, Anyang Branch