Class 2: Skin Diseases and Conditions
In this class we will move on to pathology of the skin. Skin conditions typically arise from imbalances mentioned in the first class: too much or too little water or oil, capillary blood stagnation or other problems, water catching in the layers of the skin (rashes, itching), etc. Dryness is a frequent cause of eczema, but dampness also can be a factor. Skin fungus and impetigo is almost always a damp condition. Psoriasis is complex and an underlying model of pathology and therapy is still incomplete. Aging of the skin usually moves in the direction of lack of water and oil, but wrinkling is due in addition to breakdown of the polymers and connective tissue of the extracellular matrix below the skin. As a bacterial infection, cellulitis is not without hope of improvement. What would you guess is the problem with acne? When the sebum gets clogged in the skin pores, inflammation and swelling occur. Is this a problem of too much or too little oil? Or poor processing of oils in the liver? We’ll answer these questions and more in the class, even including remedies for scar tissue from acne and other causes.

Class 3: Beauty of the Skin
Healthy skin is beautiful skin and a healthy body is reflected in the skin. The luster and tone of the skin is dependent on such factors as the condition of the liver, lymphatic movement, and skin blood supply. We’ll discuss beauty tips, essential oils, nutrition, and herbs that help keep the skin glowing and healthy. The class will cover different skin types and how aging affects skin. Cleansing and a regular skin routine are often needed to promote a lovely complexion. This class is being taught by Phyllis D. Light, MA and Tara Baklund (Matthew Wood Institute of Herbalism Director of Operations) who will share their beauty routines, their unique skin challenges, and their changing skin journeys that are common to many.

Class 4: Evaluation from the Hair, Nails, Skin, Complexion
This class will discuss evaluation from the skin but will also include looking at the hair, nails, and complexion (not facial shape). The tone of the skin, any lumps or bumps, the color of the skin and complexion are all signs for the internal workings of the body. The nails add an extra dimension to assessment. Changes to the skin and complexion can happen very quickly, often within a few days. Changes to the luster and health of the hair can also happen fairly quickly, though changes to the hair follicle is based on a cyclic process. Changes to the nails happen very slowly - over about 6 months. This makes nails an excellent tool to look at for long-term health issues.