By Dr. Jean-François Bezot
A true intelligence agent of the physical and psychological health, the skin is the first indicator of our state of wellbeing. Anti-aging doctors are relying more and more on “P4 Medicine©” to both diagnose and treat the first signs of biological deregulation over the long term and thus make our skin radiate with health.
Skin and P4 Medicine
Look for clues on the skin! Integral element to the diagnosis comprised in this relatively new speciality of integrative and anti-aging medicine, the skin reveals dysfunctions in the body – either early-stage illnesses or established pathologies – that have a domino effect. To start with, dysbiosis (microbial imbalance) leads to permeability issues in the intestinal wall and low-grade inflammation that cause chronic fatigue syndrome and/or excess weight, which in turn can lead to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and, finally, neurogenerative disorders. All of these illnesses leave their mark on the skin, which enables specialists to treat these issues as soon as they appear. A few examples: a waxy complexion and under-eye shadows are a sign of hepatic steatosis, and eczema or psoriasis are early signs of intestinal damage. Given that the skin is hormone-dependent, a deficit can be recognised due to the appearance of dry, thin and over-fragile skin.
But, since nothing is simple, the visual signs are not the same for everyone, as everyone’s skin is different. It takes a skilled doctor, plus high-precision examinations, to make an accurate diagnosis. This new generation of specialists practise “P4 Medicine” – Personalised, Predictive, Preventative and Participative – ideally with patients who are aware of their responsibilities and cooperate throughout this life-long process. This systemic medicine is based on the biology of systems, i.e. the body is made up of sub-systems, and if any sub-system becomes unbalanced, it leads to a disharmony in the whole body, thus destroying the person’s homeostasis or equilibrium.
A simple blood sample for skin diagnosis
When an illness becomes apparent on the skin, we can deduce that it has already been present in the body for some time. The specialist first checks the patient’s oxidative stress levels (the balance between free radicals and antioxidants), which is shown by the appearance of pigmentation marks. The levels of vitamins and trace elements can point to infra-clinical deficits (i.e. without any visible symptoms). Our hormone levels – mainly DHEA, pregnenolone, oestrogen and testosterone – give an indication of our energy levels, libido, cognitive activity and, of course, skin quality. Last but not least, to complete this systematic approach, a stool sample is taken to examine the intestinal microbiota. Good skin is the reflection of a good digestive system and the microbiota is considered our second brain. It produces 80% of our serotonin, two thirds of our antibodies for immunity, vitamin synthesis, etc.
A blood sample, taken on an empty stomach, is carried out in a Bioprédix® partner laboratory, who specialise in systemic biology and are at the cutting edge of innovation. The results are sent out within 10 days. Nutritional and micro-nutritional supplements, as well as a possible prescription for suitable hormone supplements, are prescribed for each patient. An improvement is visible and noticeable after 3 weeks, for biological courses of treatment over 3 to 6 months. More energy, more vitality, more optimism and skin that radiates health.
Doctor Jean-François Bezot 
Medical biologist. Pharmaceutical doctor, Paris Pharmaceutical Faculty. Former house pharmacist in the Paris Hospitals. Has specialised in anti-aging biology and functional proteomics since 1988. Vice-president of the French Society for Anti-Aging Medicine. International conference speaker.
