Blog & Columns
Useful information about health and Korean medicine.
Total 645 posts
Does an atopic constitution exist?
Let's start by discussing the skin barrier. When we talk about the skin barrier, the most important aspect we discuss is the epidermal barrier, and specifically, the stratum corneum – or SC barrier for short. As you all know, starting from the basal layer (the lowest layer of the epidermis), each...
How to choose a moisturizing cream for atopic skin?
The image above clearly shows how the skin barrier breaks down during the cleansing process. The blue elements you see are keratinocytes, and the round, green elements inside them are Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). NMF plays a role in retaining moisture in the skin.
Why Your Body Itches
Itching isn't solely a symptom of skin conditions like atopic dermatitis. It can be triggered by a variety of factors. Poor blood circulation is often cited as the primary cause of itching. Consequently, beneficial prescriptions, such as those that dispel wind and promote blood circulation, are frequently utilized.
Understanding Phototherapy for Eczema and Atopic Dermatitis
In my last post on managing itch, I emphasized the importance of considering every possible means for symptom relief. I completely overlooked discussing phototherapy then, so I'm quickly adding a bit more information on it here.
Skin Barrier Strengthening Methods and Ceramide Cream?
In my previous posts, I've been discussing the skin barrier and skin conditioning, with a particular focus on atopic dermatitis. Readers who have been following the series from the beginning will understand that all these topics are interconnected...
Atopy Causes: Skin Barrier Function and pH Conditioning
The topic of pH on the skin alone is extensive enough to fill an entire book. It is known that skin functions optimally in a slightly acidic state. Let's take a closer look...
The Applications of Traditional Korean External Preparations: Jaungo and Indigo Naturalis Ointment
Korean herbal topical medicines play an important role in providing psychological comfort to patients with skin conditions. Particularly in cases of severe itching, the very act of applying the topical medication can offer a sense of relief. There is a need to utilize alternative topical agents to reduce dependence on steroid ointments, which consequently affects the re-prescription rate...
Atopic Dermatitis and Probiotics & Prebiotics
The microbes present in our bodies form diverse communities and are referred to as microbiota. They collaborate with cells in various parts of the body, playing a crucial role in the conditioning necessary for proper function. Popular science books on the topic include "10% Human" and "Let Your Kids Eat Dirt," among others...
Can bathing help treat atopy?
Bath therapy for atopic dermatitis should be applied differently according to the symptoms. Fundamentally, since all bathing methods involve immersing the body in water, multifaceted effects can be expected....
Palm reading to diagnose Atopic Dermatitis?
Filaggrin plays an important role in the skin barrier. You can refer to the material that explains filaggrin in more detail in a previous post:...
What's the Difference Between Drool Rash and Atopic Dermatitis?
It's somewhat strange to strictly differentiate between saliva rash and atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis encompasses a weakened skin barrier function and immune hypersensitivity reactions in those with an allergic predisposition. It is simply a process where a recurrent inflammatory state leads to symptoms like itching and dryness, alongside histological changes such as lichenification....
Gout: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Gout occurs when uric acid, a purine metabolite, is not properly excreted, leading to the formation of crystals primarily in the joints, which causes inflammation and manifests as severe pain. The onset of excruciating pain caused by gout is referred to as a gout attack, which subsides and then recurs...