Chapter 1: The Limitations of Western Medicine

Many of us can relate to frequent visits to medical facilities, often concluding with a prescription or the advice to simply wait and see if symptoms improve.

My personal struggle with acne began innocently enough at the age of 11 when the first blemish made its appearance. Little did I know that this would mark the start of a lengthy journey that would ultimately reshape my perception of healthcare.

To provide some context, after that initial breakout, the situation escalated dramatically. My acne spread from my face to my neck, shoulders, and back—it was overwhelming.

The situation became dire, leading to numerous appointments with various dermatologists and a cycle of treatments. Growing up in South-East Asia, the approach to treating acne differed from that in the U.S.; we were often prescribed topical treatments and mild antibiotics rather than birth control pills or Accutane.

This regimen continued for several years until I was 17. While my acne remained persistent, I was fortunate enough to avoid significant scarring, which can be a lasting consequence of severe acne.

At 17, I relocated to Europe for my studies, and to my surprise, my skin began to improve. This wasn't an immediate change—it took about two years before I noticed a marked difference, particularly in the reduction of back acne and fewer breakouts. The only significant difference was my environment.

By the age of 19, I began to question whether following dermatologists’ advice without question was truly beneficial. This curiosity led me to conduct my own research, revealing that various factors such as diet, pollution, allergies, and climate can all influence acne.

I was astonished; none of the healthcare professionals I consulted had mentioned these aspects. An allergy test revealed my mild lactose intolerance and a sensitivity to dust. Moving to Europe provided me with cleaner air, and reducing my dairy intake further helped alleviate my acne.

This new understanding prompted me to explore skincare options, leading me to discover The Ordinary. Their Niacinamide and Alpha-arbutin made a significant difference, reducing both my acne and hyperpigmentation within the first year.

However, I soon realized that what worked for me might not suit everyone. When I recommended The Ordinary's Niacinamide to a friend, she experienced an increase in breakouts. It became clear that each person must find their unique solution through experimentation.

Through my struggles with acne, I began to question the efficacy of Western medicine as it is commonly presented. I started to wonder if the healthcare system and the methods employed by doctors truly deliver the promised benefits.

What I’ve shared may seem like a simple tale of my battle with acne. Yet, after pursuing a medical education, I've recognized that the inefficiencies I faced in managing my acne reflect broader issues within the treatment of various medical conditions.

This led me to consider holistic medicine, or functional medicine, often viewed in the West as alternative approaches. This paradigm seeks to address the underlying causes of health issues, in stark contrast to Western medicine, which often treats symptoms superficially, providing temporary relief without tackling the root problems. As a result, issues can resurface, leaving the fundamental causes unresolved.

In the first video, "Why Western Medicine Needs Chinese Medicine," we delve into the integration of Eastern practices into Western healthcare, highlighting the potential benefits of a more comprehensive approach.

Chapter 2: The Search for Holistic Solutions

Continuing from my previous reflections, my journey into understanding the complexities of health led me to further investigate alternative medical practices.

In the second video, "Dr. Jennifer Johnson MClSc Thesis Defence Public Lecture," we explore the intersection of traditional and modern medicine, emphasizing the importance of a holistic perspective in treating patients.