One of the most exciting trends in aesthetics and skin health right now is to combine salon treatments with functional and longevity medicine. Many practitioners are increasingly taking a multi-faceted approach to addressing skin concerns–rather than just focusing on how best to minimise purely cosmetic issues such as fine lines, dull skin or acne, the new breed of aesthetic practitioners also treat the whole person.

A new approach 

Longevity medicine is a system of advanced preventative medicine, based on cutting edge technology (eg: genetic testing) that aims to improve quality of life. Functional medicine falls within the longevity umbrella, but it focuses more on identifying and treating the underlying causes of disease. This is done through personalised, lifestyle interventions such as nutrition and weight management, and other integrative therapies.

“All our bodily systems are connected and influence one another,” says Dr Mayoni Gooneratne, Co-Founder, British College of Functional Medicine. “The best way to explain this is to think of a tree: the leaves symbolise the different areas of medicine that deal with symptoms (eg: endocrinology, neurology, aesthetics). However, the core driving factors are the roots which might symbolise, for example, inflammation, toxicity, poor diet, relationship stress, environment or low self image.”

How does it work?

“Some people come into the clinic and all they want is an aesthetic treatment to make them look better,” says EV Expert and Holistic Skin and Wellbeing Expert Gemma Clare.  “But, if someone is looking for a more holistic approach, I switch to functional medicine.

"For example, someone may have had treatments for acne that have helped in the short term, but if they’re still experiencing persistent, cyclical breakouts, I would do a deep dive to see what else is going on. Whatever the issue, I start with a detailed consultation then suggest functional medicine tests, based on the presenting symptoms.”

Functional medicine testing

One common lab test is the 'Dutch' Test (dried urine test comprehensive hormone). “This measures sex and adrenal hormones and how your body is metabolising them,” shares Clare.

“Hormonal imbalance is a common problem that underlies many skin problems, and this is more helpful than a regular blood test, as it shows exactly how your body is reacting to certain hormones including oestrogen, progesterone and androgens," she continues. "The test also provides information on organic acids, neuro inflammation, oxidative stress, melatonin, cortisol metabolism and adrenal function.”

Checking the gut

Other tests might include stool testing to show if there are any signs of dysbiosis (imbalance of gut bacteria) or other digestive issues. “The gut and skin are closely linked, so if there are problems with elimination, systemic inflammation and poor absorption of nutrients, this will be reflected in the skin," says Clare. "I’ve seen some patients come in with bad acne, and after working on gut health, their skin starts to clear up after only a month or two.”

Nutritional factors

Clare also recommends checking nutritional status. "If there are deficiencies, I would initially look at ways to improve the diet. With most skin conditions, there is usually some sort of inflammation. For example, if someone is deficient in zinc or omega 3 fatty acids (which are anti-inflammatory), I would advise on dietary changes and supplements. I tend to recommend everyone takes vitamin D and magnesium supplements, as it’s hard to get these nutrients from diet alone.

“Vegans and vegetarians are often low in choline and vitamin B12," she continues. "You need choline for healthy liver function, which in turn is linked to healthy skin. When vitamin B12 is low, this can lead to anaemia and pale, dull looking skin.”

People (with darker skins) may also become more prone to hyperpigmentation due to increased melanin synthesis: tests can also show if someone is low in nutrients that can prevent oxidative stress such as vitamins A, C and E, and selenium.  

Stress tests

There are also various stress function tests which test saliva to check cortisol and DHEA levels. One of Clare's favourite tests is a genetic (DNA mouth swab) test that gives an insight into neurotransmitter (eg: serotonin, dopamine) pathways.

"This can show whether you’re processing certain chemicals too slow or too fast, which can have an impact on your emotional health," she says. "For example, if you’re slow to process epinephrine (adrenaline), this can make you extra sensitive to stress. Reducing stress can also help to improve certain skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema.”

Emotional health

Finally, functional health checks can help to pinpoint other health issues such as thyroid dysfunction and PCOS that can trigger skin issues. Clare also consider a patient’s emotional health. "Do they have any relationship issues, unresolved trauma or low self image? If so, I would suggest therapy or bodywork, in addition to aesthetic treatment and other integrative health therapies.”