How Hering Can Help Your Esthetic Practice

By Benjamin Knight Fuchs, R.Ph.

As estheticians and skincare professionals, we’re dedicated to helping our clients achieve healthy, glowing skin. Most of us understand the importance of topical treatments and lifestyle advice, but what if there was a deeper principle at play—one that influences the skin from the inside out?

There is. It’s called Hering’s Law of Cure—a holistic healing philosophy that can significantly enhance your approach to treating skin conditions.

Understanding Hering’s Law

Hering’s Law, formulated by Dr. Constantine Hering, a 19th-century physician, proposes that healing progresses in a predictable manner:

• From deeper, vital organs to the surface: The body prioritizes healing essential systems before addressing external symptoms.

• From the inside out: Toxins and disease are pushed away from vital organs toward the skin.

• From the head downward: Healing typically begins at the top of the body.

• In reverse order of symptom appearance: Recent symptoms disappear first, followed by older, chronic ones.

For estheticians, the “inside to outside” concept is especially relevant. It suggests that skin issues often stem from internal imbalances. While topical solutions may manage symptoms, true, lasting healing happens when we address root causes within the body.

The Gut–Skin Connection: Digestive and Intestinal Health

The gut—often referred to as the “second brain”—plays a crucial role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function. When it’s out of balance (dysbiosis), it can lead to skin issues such as acne, eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis.

How gut health relates to Hering’s Law and skin healing:

• Impaired digestion: Poor digestion can allow undigested food particles into the bloodstream, causing systemic inflammation that affects the skin.

• Poor nutrient absorption: A compromised gut hinders the intake of key nutrients (vitamins, minerals, antioxidants) necessary for skin repair.

• Gut microbiome imbalance: Disruption in gut bacteria leads to inflammation, immune dysfunction, and “leaky gut”.

Esthetic approaches for gut health:

• Balanced diet: Recommend whole foods—fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, sugar, and refined carbs.

• Probiotics and prebiotics: Support beneficial bacteria with supplements and fiber-rich foods.

• Digestive enzymes: Suggest enzyme supplements for better digestion and absorption.

• Food sensitivity tracking: Use food diaries and elimination diets.

• Stress management: Recommend techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.

Metabolic Health: Blood Sugar, Insulin, and Skin

Metabolic health is about how efficiently the body processes glucose. High blood sugar and insulin resistancecontribute to chronic inflammation and worsen skin conditions.

Hering’s Law and metabolic function:

As metabolic imbalances are addressed, skin improves as an external reflection of internal healing.

• Inflammation: Elevated glucose triggers inflammatory molecules that damage skin tissue.

• Glycation: Excess sugar binds to proteins forming AGEs (Advanced Glycation End Products)—which cause wrinkles and loss of elasticity.

• Hormonal imbalance: Insulin resistance raises androgen levels, contributing to acne.

Esthetic approaches for metabolic health:

• Low-glycemic diet: Emphasize fiber, healthy fats, and protein. Avoid sugary drinks and processed foods.

• Regular exercise: Boost insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation.

• Stress reduction: High stress raises blood sugar—recommend relaxation techniques.

• Supplements: Consider chromium, alpha-lipoic acid, vitamins B1, B3, zinc, selenium, vanadium.

Adrenal and Thyroid Health: Stress, Hormones, and Skin

Adrenal and thyroid glands regulate key hormones that affect the skin. Chronic stress may lead to adrenal fatigue, and hypothyroidism can slow metabolism and impair skin function.

Connections to Hering’s Law:

• Cortisol: Prolonged stress raises cortisol, impairing immunity, wound healing, and promoting inflammation.

• Thyroid hormones: Influence cell turnover and hydration. Low thyroid activity causes dry skin, hair loss, and slow healing.

• Hormonal imbalance: Disrupts estrogen and progesterone, leading to acne and hyperpigmentation.

Esthetic approaches for adrenal and thyroid health:

• Stress management: Encourage nature time, hobbies, and relaxation rituals.

• Adaptogens: Use herbs like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil to help regulate stress.

• Nutrient-rich diet: Include iodine, selenium, zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin D.

• Sleep hygiene: Promote consistent schedules and relaxing routines before bed.

Conclusion: A Holistic Esthetic Practice

By embracing Hering’s Law of Cure, estheticians can go beyond surface-level solutions. While topical products remain valuable, addressing digestive, metabolic, and hormonal imbalances empowers us to offer lasting results and radiant skin.

Encourage your clients to consult with a naturopath or integrative physician for personalized guidance. Working together with other health professionals, we can provide comprehensive care—inside and out.

By Benjamin Knight Fuchs, R.Ph.