The audience was buzzing with excitement on the first day of the Integrative Dermatology Symposium (IDS)!

Akil Palanisamy, MD opened the day with a discussion on incorporating a fiber-rich plant-based dietary approach to treating leaky gut syndrome, and its associated dermatologic conditions, including acne, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis.

Emma Norton, ND emphasized the holistic connection between cardiometabolic diseases and inflammatory skin conditions.

Francene Steinberg, PhD, RDN highlighted the key isoflavones in soy and its promising clinical evidence for wrinkles, breast cancer, and menopausal symptoms relief.

Next, an integrative panel with the practitioners above discussed practical applications of nutrition in dermatological diseases.

Day 2 of IDS attracted an even larger crowd than the day before! Fabrizio Galimberti, MD PhD spoke on how children may experience the onset of psoriasis after a strep pharyngitis infection.

Following later in the morning, Jonette Keri, MD PhD mentioned that an inexpensive way to help with acne is to consume lower glycemic load foods.

After the lunch break, Michelle Jefferies, DO went over herbal supplements in acne patients, specifically DIM, saw palmetto, and Chaste tree berry.

Apple Bodemer, MD discussed the use and effects of low-dose Naltrexone for skin conditions such as psoriasis and lichen planus pigmentosus.

After the afternoon break, Vivien Fam, PhD RD addressed the significance of dietary intake in skin health, reporting that regular consumption of a 0.5 cup of mangoes or 2oz of almonds can lead to an improved wrinkle appearance. She also emphasized the importance of future studies on different skin types, especially Fitzpatrick IV and above.

For the last lecture for the day, Katherine Varman, MD highlighted the significance of sunlight in creating immune tolerance, allowing us to teach our body to stay cool and relax, and not to react to everything it comes across!

The final day of IDS began with happy chatter throughout the audience reflecting on the many different connections that formed over the weekend. There was both an eagerness to attend today’s meetings but also a sadness knowing IDS 2021 was coming to a close.

Raja Sivamani, MD MS AP provided evidence for the use of PRP injections, micro-needling, low-level laser therapy, and oral/topical Bhringraj supplementation in treating hair loss.

Paradi Mirmirani, MD discussed JAK inhibitors in treating alopecia areata, and emphasized the importance of addressing the psychosocial aspects of health by advocating for supportive care and patient education.

All practitioners in the 'Integrative Approaches to Hair Health' panel discussed the impact of asking non-judgmental questions, recommended creative ways patients can keep their hands busy, and even advocated for the addition of a mental health specialist to the healthcare team to provide holistic care for patients with hair loss.

Julie Greenberg, ND RH(AHG) MBA, provided an integrative approach to treating dermatological conditions caused or exacerbated by Malessiza.

DKaren Stolman, MD highlighted the origin of conventional and integrative approaches to hyperhidrosis treatment. Specifically, studies on postmenopausal women showed sage leaf capsules improved sweat, sleep, mood, sexual desire, and cognition.

For more information about the conference and to learn about upcoming events go to the Learn Skin and Integrative Dermatology Symposium websites.