Chronic skin conditions include eczema, acne and psoriasis, all of which require an holistic approach with a focus on dietary and lifestyle factors.

General recommendations for treating chronic skin conditions include the following;

• eliminate refined flour and sugar products, avoid food preservatives, artificial flavours and colours.

• increase omega 3 fatty acids, such as oily fish and flaxseed oil.

• reduce or eliminate coffee, tea, alcohol, fried foods and saturated fats.

• increase fresh fruit and vegetable intake and reduce meat consumption to make the diet more alkaline.

• eliminate dairy.

• increase water to at least 2 litres per day.

• ensure a high fibre diet to support efficient elimination.

• consider taking zinc and vitamin E (patients with dermatitis, acne and psoriasis typically have low epidermal zinc concentrations).

• anti-inflammatory herbs such as echinacea, calendula, burdock, and yellow dock are classic ‘blood purifiers’.

• address any hormonal imbalance, such as PMS, polycystic ovarian syndrome. Herbs such as vitex, saw palmetto, black cohosh plus evening primrose oil, zinc and chromium can assist.