Acne: What Your Breakouts Say About Your Health

Acne

Hello, doctor: It has been reported that the areas on the face where acne appears are signals from the body.
Is this true? If so, could you please elaborate on what each area represents, such as the chin, neck, forehead, cheeks, and philtrum? Thank you!

david, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/11/20

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

The basic methods of facial diagnosis in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are outlined in the "Lingshu" section of the "Huangdi Neijing" (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon).
According to this text, the facial areas correspond to the five internal organs as follows: the forehead (Tian Ting) is associated with diseases of the head and face; the area above the glabella (between the eyebrows) is linked to throat conditions; the glabella itself corresponds to lung issues; the space between the eyes is related to heart problems; the nasal bridge directly below is associated with liver diseases; the left side of this area pertains to gallbladder conditions; the tip of the nose below the nasal bridge corresponds to spleen issues; the nasal passages on either side relate to stomach problems; the area between the nasal passages and the cheeks, beneath the bones, is associated with large intestine diseases; the cheeks themselves correspond to kidney issues; and the midline below the nasal tip relates to bladder and uterine conditions.
Furthermore, according to the "Suwen" section of the "Huangdi Neijing," the five internal organs are also mapped to facial areas as follows: the left cheek corresponds to the liver; the right cheek to the lungs; the forehead to the heart; the jaw to the kidneys; and the nose to the spleen.
These two methods primarily rely on the first approach (the Five Colors chapter) as the main reference, while the latter serves as a clinical guide.
It is important to note that TCM emphasizes the integration of observation, listening, inquiry, and pulse-taking in diagnosis.
Therefore, the observation of facial areas should not be mechanical or rigid; rather, it should be applied flexibly.
The presence of acne in a specific area does not necessarily indicate a problem with the corresponding organ.

Reply Date: 2000/11/20

More Info

Acne is a common skin condition that can be influenced by various factors, including hormonal changes, diet, stress, and overall health. The idea that specific areas of the face can correspond to different health issues is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and has gained popularity in recent years. While scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, many people find it helpful to consider the potential connections between their skin and their health.

1. Forehead: Breakouts on the forehead are often associated with digestive issues. This area is linked to the gastrointestinal tract, and acne here may indicate problems such as poor digestion, constipation, or an unhealthy diet. Stress and lack of sleep can also contribute to forehead acne.

2. Cheeks: Acne on the cheeks can be related to respiratory issues or allergies. This area is also associated with the lungs, and breakouts may signal that your body is reacting to environmental factors, such as pollution or allergens. Additionally, cheek acne can be exacerbated by touching your face frequently or using dirty phone screens.

3. Nose: The nose is linked to the heart and circulatory system. Breakouts here may indicate issues with blood circulation or high blood pressure. It can also be a sign of hormonal fluctuations, particularly during puberty or menstrual cycles.

4. Chin and Jawline: Acne in this area is often hormonal in nature. For women, it can be related to menstrual cycles, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or other hormonal imbalances. Stress can also play a significant role in chin and jawline breakouts, as it can lead to increased oil production and clogged pores.

5. Temples: Breakouts on the temples may be associated with liver function. The liver is responsible for detoxifying the body, and acne in this area could indicate that the liver is overworked or struggling to eliminate toxins effectively.

6. Ears: Acne around the ears can be linked to kidney health. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste from the blood, and breakouts in this area may suggest that the kidneys are under stress or not functioning optimally.

7. Neck: Acne on the neck can be related to hormonal changes or stress. It may also indicate issues with the thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism and energy levels.

While these associations can provide insights into potential underlying health issues, it's essential to approach them with caution. Acne can be multifactorial, and individual experiences may vary. Factors such as genetics, skincare routines, and lifestyle choices can significantly influence the occurrence and severity of acne.

If you are experiencing persistent or severe acne, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation, recommend appropriate treatments, and help you understand any underlying health concerns. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate hydration, and stress management, can contribute to overall skin health.

In summary, while there may be some connections between acne locations and health issues, it's crucial to consider the broader context of your health and lifestyle. Acne can be a complex condition, and understanding its causes may require a holistic approach that includes both medical advice and self-care practices.

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