At the 2026 Society of Dermatology Physician Associates (SDPA) Annual Summer Dermatology Conference, Steven Daveluy of Wayne State University discussed key concepts from his session on integrative dermatology, highlighting how evidence-based complementary therapies can be incorporated into conventional dermatologic care.1
Speaking with HCPLive, Daveluy emphasized that integrative dermatology should not be viewed as an alternative to traditional medicine but rather as an extension of it. In his discussion, Daveluy described the field as an effort to evaluate complementary and alternative therapies through the same scientific lens used for prescription medications, recommending only interventions supported by clinical evidence. He noted clinicians should remain open-minded when discussing non-traditional treatments or supplements with patients while still relying on published data to guide recommendations.
How Should Clinicians Approach Conversations About Alternative Treatments?
“[Traditionally] there's been an us versus them, conventional medicine versus complementary and alternative medicine [mentality],” Daveluy said. “And so I think integrative [dermatology] bridges that really well.”
A significant portion of the discussion focused on integrative approaches for managing atopic dermatitis. Daveluy highlighted several interventions supported by emerging evidence, including acupressure, nutritional supplementation, and the use of certain plant-derived oils. Among his preferred recommendations is acupressure of the Large Intestine 11 (LI11) point near the elbow, which has been shown to help diminish itch in those living with eczema.
He noted the technique may provide dual benefits by both alleviating pruritus and keeping patients’ hands occupied, potentially reducing scratching behavior. Daveluy also pointed to L-histidine supplementation, describing it as a precursor to filaggrin that may help support the skin barrier by enhancing the body’s ability to produce natural moisturizing factors. Additionally, he pointed to literature supporting the use of virgin olive oil, virgin coconut oil, and virgin sunflower oil as possible moisturizers.
Which Integrative Dermatology Treatments Have the Strongest Support?
When asked which integrative therapies have the strongest supporting data, Daveluy singled out sunflower seed oil. Beyond research pointing to benefits in eczema management, he referenced research in premature infants showing that topical sunflower oil use was associated with reductions in sepsis and mortality, findings he described as particularly compelling. Daveluy also addressed dietary strategies for patients with psoriasis, highlighting evidence supporting high-fiber, omega-3-rich eating patterns such as the Mediterranean diet.
He noted studies have shown improved outcomes among individuals who adopt Mediterranean-style dietary habits, whether used alone or alongside systemic drugs. Notably, Daveluy encouraged clinicians to approach discussions about diet collaboratively and to emphasize gradual, sustainable changes rather than dramatic lifestyle overhauls, helping patients integrate healthier habits in a realistic and attainable way.
Disclosures: Daveluy previously reported serving as a speaker and consultant for AbbVie, UCB, and Novartis, and as a researcher for AbbVie, UCB, Novartis, Regeneron, Pfizer, and Sanofi.
References
Daveluy S, et al. Integrative Dermatology. Presented at SDPA Summer 2026. Jun 10-14, 2026.
