Because skin is one of the body’s biggest detox organs. If the gut, liver, kidneys, or lymphatics are struggling, the skin will often show it first – with itchiness, dull coat, scabs, slow shedding, or poor healing. Healthy skin always starts on the inside.

Coat change isn’t just about hair. It’s a full metabolic detox event: the liver breaks down old proteins, the kidneys excrete that waste, and the lymphatic system often gets congested. That’s why horses can seem itchy, sluggish, or “off” during spring and autumn. Support them with clean forage, LKLCARE for detox support, MSM (sulphur), zinc, and omega-3s (linseed).

Not really. While midge bites are the trigger, the root cause lies deeper – in a compromised gut biome and overloaded detox pathways. 

This imbalance makes the immune system hyper-reactive, leading to severe itching. 

Covering rugs can reduce exposure, but long-term help means restoring gut health, supporting detox organs, and balancing nutrients.

See our KPU page for the full story.

Wet mud fever is usually driven by opportunistic bacteria invading compromised skin. Dry mud fever, however, is often a detox overload issue linked to KPU (like mallenders). 

Both types are made worse by poor mineral balance (especially low zinc/copper) and lowered immunity. The key is supporting gut, liver, kidneys, and lymph – plus balanced minerals. 

See our Coat & Skin page for the full story.

Mallenders is a symptom of detox stress, with certain horse breeds more genetically prone to using skin as a detox pathway. 

New research links mallenders directly to KPU (a gut:liver imbalance). Long-term help comes from cleaning up the diet, restoring gut balance, and supporting liver/kidneys – not just topical creams.

See our Mallenders page for the full story.

Hives (urticaria) are raised, itchy bumps often caused by allergens (pollen, bedding, feed, sprays) or stress. 

They’re usually short-lived but can signal deeper immune imbalance. If swelling affects the airways, call your vet immediately. 

For recurring hives, look at immune resets with LKLCARE or OptimaCARE, and consider possible autoimmune triggers.

See our Coat & Skin page for the full story.

Less is more. Research shows washing (even with baby shampoo) can disrupt the natural bacterial balance and actually increase bacterial growth. 

Unless your gelding shows signs of discomfort, odour, or swelling, minimal cleaning with just warm water is best. Excessive smegma may also signal deeper metabolic/detox stress – so support the liver/kidneys too.

See our Coat & Skin page for the full story.