UNDERSTANDING CHRONIC SKIN CONDITIONS
What drives eczema and psoriasis flares?
Both eczema and psoriasis are immune-mediated conditions — meaning the immune system plays a central role. Effective long-term management requires addressing the immune, gut, and lifestyle factors that trigger flares.
IMMUNE DYSREGULATION
In psoriasis, overactive T-cells cause rapid skin cell turnover. In eczema, a Th2-dominant immune response drives the allergic inflammatory cascade responsible for itch and redness.
STRESS & CORTISOL
Psychological stress is one of the most consistent triggers for both eczema and psoriasis flares — activating inflammatory pathways that worsen symptoms within days.
GUT MICROBIOME IMBALANCE
The gut-skin axis is well established — intestinal dysbiosis and leaky gut significantly worsen inflammatory skin conditions. Naturopathic gut protocols can dramatically reduce flare frequency.
ENVIRONMENTAL ALLERGENS
Dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mould are common environmental triggers for eczema — requiring both avoidance strategies and immune regulation.
FOOD SENSITIVITIES
IgG food sensitivities to gluten, dairy, eggs, and nightshades are common triggers that, when identified and eliminated, can produce rapid improvement in both eczema and psoriasis.
SKIN BARRIER DEFECTS
Filaggrin gene mutations impair the skin barrier in eczema, allowing irritants and allergens to penetrate and trigger immune responses — making barrier repair essential.
OUR APPROACH
Integrative eczema & psoriasis care in Burnaby
We work alongside your dermatologist and GP to provide integrative support that reduces flares, heals the barrier, and addresses the underlying immune drivers of your condition.
Root Cause · Immune Support
Comprehensive assessment of gut health, food sensitivities, nutritional deficiencies, and stress — followed by a targeted protocol to reduce immune reactivity and flare frequency.
Gentle · Fragrance-Free
Soothing, fragrance-free medical facials that rebuild the skin's protective barrier, calm inflammation, and restore moisture retention without triggering reactive skin.
Clinically Proven · Plaque Reduction
Aerolase laser targets psoriatic plaques, reduces inflammation, and slows the rapid skin cell turnover responsible for scaling — providing meaningful relief between flares.
Immune Regulation · Stress Relief
Acupuncture regulates immune function, reduces systemic inflammation, and powerfully addresses the stress component of eczema and psoriasis — eligible for extended health benefits.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Eczema & psoriasis FAQ
Can naturopathic medicine help eczema and psoriasis?
Yes — naturopathic care is highly effective for chronic inflammatory skin conditions. Addressing gut health, food sensitivities, and stress can dramatically reduce flare frequency and severity for many clients.
Is acupuncture covered for eczema treatment?
Acupuncture is covered by most extended health benefit plans in BC when performed by a Registered Acupuncturist. We offer direct billing to many extended health plans.
Do I need to stop my prescribed medications to work with you?
No — we work collaboratively alongside your existing medical care. Our integrative approach complements conventional treatments and often allows clients to reduce medication dependency over time.
How long before I see improvement?
Many clients notice reduced flare frequency within 4–8 weeks of starting a naturopathic protocol. Laser treatments for psoriasis typically show visible plaque reduction within 3–6 sessions.
FIND LASTING RELIEF
Calm Skin.
Fewer flares. More freedom.
Book an integrative consultation at Oak Skin in Burnaby and let us help you understand — and manage — your skin condition at its root.