On a daily basis, many of my patients ask me what they can do to make their skin “happy.” They wonder if diet, exercise or meditation can improve the health of their skin. Recent scientific breakthroughs have illuminated our understanding of what makes skin happy and healthy.

I practice dermatology via holistic methods, which approach skin care from a variety of dimensions to make an optimal whole. I believe this approach serves to recognize the important skin-mind-body connection and integrates traditional Western and Eastern medical teachings, as well as the treatments of the skin from inside out and outside in.

Some of the facets I address include the patient’s diet, stress-reducing techniques, lifestyle choices, seasonal and climate changes, gender and hormonal influences, aging process, green-friendly skin therapies, and underlying physical and psychological health. The holistic outlook allows me to recognize my patients as individuals and recommend the ideal personalized skin regiment.

The latest scientific data indicates that a well-balanced diet can improve the health of one’s skin. This includes antioxidant rich fruits and vegetables, minimizing inflammatory sugars and fats, and incorporating anti-inflammatory ingredients (ranging from fish oils in succulent salmon, polyphenols in soothing green tea, reseveratrol in tangy red wine, and a bit of flavonoids in decadent dark chocolate). In addition, regular intake of essential vitamins, minerals and water will lead to more nourished skin. Persistent skin ailments such as acne, psoriasis and eczema, can improve with this type of nutritional regime, as well as the individual’s overall well-being.

About the Author
Dr. Marianna Blyumin-Karasik practices both medical as well as procedural dermatology in the private and academic settings in Miami, FL. Dr. Blyumin-Karasik graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Georgetown University. Subsequently, she graduated AΩA and Summa Cum Laude from the Georgetown University School of Medicine. Following her internal medicine internship at the Georgetown University Hospital, she has expanded her dermatology training by completing a competitive cutaneous clinical studies fellowship at the Harvard Medical School, Department of Dermatology. Dr. Blyumin-Karasik completed her dermatology residency at the University of Miami, Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery.

During her residency training, Dr. Blyumin-Karasik successfully completed a clinical research project, “Safety and Efficacy of Titan Infrared Device for Skin Tightening of the Aging Upper Arms,” for which she was recognized with Celia and Samuel Resnik Residents/Fellows Research Day Award. She has also published multiple scientific articles in different dermatological journals and presented on the national and international levels.

Dr. Blyumin-Karasik is affiliated with various professional societies. She is also dedicated to community service by mentoring and teaching medical students and by volunteering at the skin cancer screenings and indigent dermatology clinics.