Healthy Skin from the Inside Out: A Naturopathic Approach
As the seasons shift and we begin to shed the layers of winter, many of us notice changes in our skin—dryness, dullness, breakouts, or increased sensitivity. These visible changes often reflect what’s happening inside the body. At Garibaldi Health Clinic, we approach skin health holistically, looking beyond surface symptoms to uncover and treat the root causes.
Our skin is more than just a protective barrier—it’s a reflection of our internal health. Hormonal imbalances, sluggish digestion, food intolerances, nutrient deficiencies, and chronic inflammation can all manifest on the skin. Understanding this deeper connection allows us to support clear, vibrant skin naturally and sustainably.
The Gut-Skin Connection
One of the most important, yet often overlooked, aspects of skin health is gut function. The gut and skin share a strong communication network through what’s called the gut-skin axis. An imbalanced microbiome, leaky gut, or poor digestion can contribute to inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis.
Supporting digestion with probiotics, digestive enzymes, fiber-rich foods, and anti-inflammatory nutrients can have a transformative effect on the skin. For some individuals, identifying and removing food sensitivities, often dairy, gluten, or processed sugars, can lead to noticeable improvements in just a few weeks.
Liver Support for Skin Clarity
The liver plays a key role in filtering toxins, hormones, and environmental chemicals. When the liver is overburdened, the skin often takes on some of the detox work—leading to blemishes, congestion, or dullness. Gentle liver support through foods like leafy greens, beets, turmeric, and dandelion root can enhance the body’s natural detox pathways.
We may also recommend specific botanicals or homeopathic remedies to promote liver function and lymphatic drainage, which can improve circulation to the skin and reduce inflammation.
Hormones and Skin
Hormonal imbalances are a common driver behind skin concerns, especially in adults. Elevated androgens (like testosterone) can increase oil production and lead to acne, particularly around the jawline or chin. For women, fluctuations related to the menstrual cycle, perimenopause, or coming off birth control can significantly impact skin appearance.
At Garibaldi Health Clinic, we work to assess hormone levels through testing when appropriate and use herbal medicine, nutritional therapy, and lifestyle adjustments to restore hormonal harmony. When the hormones rebalance, skin often follows suit.
Nutrients for Radiance
Healthy skin relies on a steady supply of essential nutrients. Zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, E, selenium and antioxidants all play key roles in healing, hydration, and collagen production. Sometimes diet alone isn’t enough, especially if digestive absorption is compromised. In those cases, targeted supplementation or intravenous nutrient therapy can help fill the gaps.
We also explore how stress, sleep quality, hydration, and skincare products may affect your skin health—and create a plan that supports healing from every angle.
Personalized Skin Care with Dr. Ashely Gordon
As a naturopathic doctor, Dr. Ashely Gordon views the skin as a window into overall well-being. Whether you’re struggling with persistent breakouts, dryness, redness, or simply want to glow more naturally, she takes time to understand your health history, current routine, and deeper imbalances.
Together, she can create a personalized, whole-body plan to support healthy, resilient skin through every season.
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