Traditional Medicine for Dry Skin: TCM Solutions for Calgary's Fall Dryness

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), fall is the season of the Lungs. The Lungs govern both breathing and the skin, making them especially vulnerable to dryness this time of year. By eating moistening, yin-nourishing foods and adopting protective habits, you can safeguard both lung qi and skin health.

Calgary falls can be especially tough. The cool, dry air and frequent winds quickly strip away moisture, leaving skin dry, itchy, or irritated. TCM offers natural ways to restore hydration, balance the body, and keep your skin radiant as the seasons change.

The TCM Perspective on Dry Skin

In TCM, dry skin reflects imbalances in the Lung, Stomach, or Kidney meridians, which regulate hydration and nourishment. In the fall, the dry climate often:

• Injures Lung Yin, leading to dryness of the skin, nose, and throat.

• Triggers wind-dryness (dryness worsened by windy conditions).

Rather than focusing only on external symptoms, TCM works to moisten dryness, nourish yin and blood, and restore balance before the harsher cold of winter arrives.

Herbal Formulas for Dry Skin

TCM herbal medicine provides powerful support for dry skin by hydrating the body from within. Here are some specific formulas often recommended for skin dryness:

1. Bai He Gu Jin Tang (Lily Bulb Decoction to Preserve the Metal)
   Moistens lungs and skin; relieves dryness with throat irritation or cough.

2. Si Wu Tang (Four Substance Decoction)
   Nourishes blood and supports circulation, easing flaky or dull skin.

3. Zeng Ye Tang (Increase Fluids Decoction)
   Boosts hydration for dryness with thirst and mild internal heat.

4. He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti, Polygonum multiflorum)
   Supports Kidney and blood health, helping prevent chronic dryness in skin, hair, and nails as the seasons shift.

Topical Remedies in TCM for Dry Skin

While herbal formulas work internally, TCM also offers external remedies to complement the treatment:

1. Zi Yun Gao (Purple Cloud Ointment, 紫雲膏)
   A classic formula made with herbs like Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis), Zi Cao (Arnebia/Lithospermum), and Hong Hua (Carthamus). It nourishes and moistens the skin, helps with cracks, dryness, eczema, and promotes tissue regeneration.

2. San Huang Gao (Three Yellows Ointment, 三黃膏)
   Formulated with Huang Qin (Scutellaria), Huang Bai (Phellodendron), and Da Huang (Rhubarb). Traditionally used for heat-type skin conditions, but can also calm dryness with irritation.

3. Herbal Baths: Add dried Ju Hua, Gan Cao, and Gou Qi Zi to your bathwater to hydrate and calm the skin.

Nourishing Foods for Hydration

In TCM, diet plays a crucial role in skin health. Incorporating hydrating and nourishing foods into your meals can help combat dryness:

• Soups & Stews – Light chicken soup or vegetable broths moisten and warm digestion.

• Seasonal Fruits – Pears, apples, and persimmons generate fluids and soothe the throat.

• Moistening Ingredients – Yin Er (Snow fungus), almonds, sesame seeds, and honey protect against dryness.

• Healthy Oils – Avocados, walnuts, and olive oil support supple skin.

Teas to Hydrate and Protect Skin

TCM-inspired teas are an easy way to stay hydrated and maintain your skin’s moisture levels:

1. Gou Qi Zi & Ju Hua Cha (Goji Berry + Chrysanthemum Tea) – Hydrates and clears dryness from eyes and skin.

2. Gan Cao & Feng Mi Cha (Licorice + Honey Tea) – Moisturizes lungs and eases irritation.

3. Yin Er & Hong Zao Cha (Snow Fungus + Red Dates Tea) – Restores moisture and nourishes blood for healthy skin.

Acupuncture for Skin Health

Acupuncture improves circulation and fluid distribution to the skin. Common points include:

• Lung 7 (LU7) – Moistens lungs and skin.

• Kidney 3 (KD3) – Supports hydration and yin.

• Spleen 6 (SP6) – Enhances fluid regulation.

Staying Balanced in Calgary’s Fall

At JD AcuCare, we understand how Calgary’s dry, windy fall climate impacts your skin and overall health. With herbal medicine, acupuncture, and diet guidance, we help you stay balanced and hydrated as the seasons shift.

✨ Ready to protect your skin this fall? Book a consultation today and discover how TCM can restore your skin’s natural glow.

For more information on skin issues, see our other blogs:

• Why Skin Problems Flare Up in Calgary's Warm Weather—And How TCM Can Help

• The Most Effective Way to Support Healthy Collagen Production: Non-Invasive Skincare

• Ancient Wisdom for Modern Skincare: How TCM Herbs Hydrate, Protect & Rejuvenate

• Holistic K-Beauty Rejuvenation

• Skin Health in Calgary: A Holistic Approach - Face & Body

Read more about our Neuro Cosmetic Acupuncture treatments.