What Causes Acne According To Chinese Medicine (2024)

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) explains acne as a result of heat and dampness in the lungs, often caused by excessive consumption of spicy or fried foods or hormonal imbalances. Dampness can also cause acne, and the Chinese approach to treating it is to cool the heat, cleanse the lungs, detoxify the intestines, and externally heal the condition. Acne is also related to the pathogenic influence of damp heat and heat on specific meridians.

TCM offers a unique perspective on acne through the concept of face mapping, revealing the interconnectedness between skin health, internal organs, and energetic imbalances. It views acne as an external manifestation of poor nutrition, impeded blood and Qi production, and sluggish circulation, metabolism, and digestion within the body. Topical treatment for acne may clear blemishes on a skin-deep level, while acupuncture and other TCM skin treatments can help get rid of acne and other skin problems like rosacea, dermatitis, and more.

In TCM, acne is most closely associated with heat in the lungs and stomach, often caused by excessive consumption of spicy, oily, and flavorful foods, which cause an accumulation of damp heat in the body. The main causes of pore blockage are excess oil production, dead skin cells, bacteria, and inflammation. Other causes identified can be due to hormonal changes, certain medications, diet, and stress.

Hormonal acne in TCM is caused by deficiency in the kidney and liver system, leading to stagnation of blood in the area. Conventional dermatology sees acne as a skin condition mostly related to hormone imbalances or genetics, but TCM also recognizes common causes and factors of acne, such as sebum overproduction, bacterial growth, irregular periods, PCOS, and hormonal imbalances.

In conclusion, TCM offers a unique perspective on acne, viewing it as a sign of imbalance in the body rather than just a surface problem. By understanding the causes and implementing a comprehensive treatment strategy, individuals can effectively address acne and other skin conditions.

What Is Your Body Lacking When You Have Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition caused by inflammation in the pilosebaceous unit, which contains the hair follicle and sebaceous gland. Factors like vitamin deficiency can influence acne, particularly in the lower face, chin, and neck areas. Body acne can occur on the chest, back, or buttocks. While antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium found in almonds, peanuts, and Brazil nuts can protect cells from damage, there is no clear evidence that they can clear up acne.

Dermatologists recommend treating acne with the right products and lifestyle changes. Body acne can be caused by oil, bacteria, dead skin cells, and dirt blocking pores. Maintaining a gentle daily skincare routine can help prevent inflammation and balance acne-prone skin. Deficiencies in essential nutrients like EFAs, magnesium, zinc, B vitamins, and vitamins A, D, and C can impact skin health, leading to increased inflammation.

Hormonal changes, excess oil production, bacteria buildup, and androgen excess can also contribute to acne. To achieve clearer skin, it is important to address underlying health issues and maintain a healthy diet rich in high-fiber foods like oatmeal, beans, apples, and carrots.

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What Is The Chinese Theory Of Acne?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) explains acne as a result of imbalances in the ZF organs, leading to hormonal issues and toxin buildup. These imbalances are usually caused by factors such as poor diet, overworking, stress, congenital conditions, lifestyle, and digestion. TCM uses face mapping to connect different areas of the face to internal health issues, offering a unique perspective on acne treatment by addressing internal imbalances. Acne is viewed as an inflammatory condition in TCM, resulting from clogged pores that lead to various skin lesions.

TCM identifies patterns of imbalance that contribute to acne and treats it as a sign of internal imbalance rather than just a surface issue. Acne face mapping in Chinese Medicine reveals the connection between acne on specific facial areas and corresponding organs. TCM views acne as an external manifestation of internal imbalances, involving the body's Qi, Blood, and Body Fluids systems. The etiology of acne in TCM is attributed to excess heat and dampness, leading to skin inflammation, redness, oily skin, and clogged pores.

Acupuncture and TCM offer natural solutions to acne by treating the root cause of the issue. Face mapping theory in TCM suggests that the location of acne can indicate its cause. Studies on acne prevalence in China show associations with gender, region, and age, providing valuable insights for TCM practitioners.

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What Is The Main Hormone That Causes Acne?

Hormones called androgens, such as testosterone, play a crucial role in regulating sebum production and acne formation during puberty. Androgen-dependent sebum secretion can lead to clogged pores, resulting in acne. Hormonal acne occurs when changes in hormone levels increase oil production, leading to interactions with bacteria on the skin's pores. This type of acne is common in adolescents as well as adults, particularly women experiencing hormone fluctuations during midlife.

Androgens, including testosterone, are key hormones that can influence acne development, particularly in the chin, jawline, neck, and chest areas. Fluctuating hormone levels, such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, can lead to excess sebum production, dead skin cell buildup, and bacterial growth, contributing to acne formation. Hormonal medications may be prescribed in addition to standard acne treatments. Teenage acne, triggered by increased testosterone levels during puberty, is a common occurrence.

Insulin surges can also raise androgen levels, accelerating skin cell growth and increasing the risk of hormonal acne outbreaks. Understanding how androgens and other hormones affect acne can help in developing effective treatment strategies.

What Causes Facial And Body Acne In TCM?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acne can be caused by imbalances in the body's organs, leading to hormonal issues and toxin buildup. TCM associates acne with Heat in the Lungs and Stomach, which can be exacerbated by consuming "heaty" foods like chocolate and fried foods. TCM physicians use face mapping to identify the root causes of acne by examining different facial areas to pinpoint organ system imbalances. Acupuncture, TCM facials, and natural ingredients are used to improve skin health and treat acne.

Hormonal acne, linked to imbalances in hormones, is common in women due to stress, menstrual cycles, and PCOS. Heat Toxin acne occurs when Lung and/or Stomach Heat combines with Heat Toxin, affecting the skin in the upper body. Dampness and Heat in the body can lead to inflammation and pimples on the skin's surface. Addressing internal disharmony, stress, and emotional factors can help treat acne in TCM, which views acne as a reflection of internal health.

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What Toxins Cause Acne?

Chloracnegenic chemicals like chlorinated phenols, PCBs, and other polychlorinated compounds can cause acne on the lower face, chin, and neck. Poor gut health and toxin buildup can also lead to skin issues. Factors like oil production and gut imbalances, including Candida overgrowth, play a role in acne development. Certain foods, like those with a high glycemic index, can contribute to acne formation. A sluggish lymphatic system or disruptions in the microbiome can also lead to toxin buildup and acne.

During detoxification, the body may expel toxins through the skin, causing temporary breakouts. Products that penetrate the skin can help flush out toxins, while a healthy liver is essential for detoxification. Pollution and environmental toxins can also clog pores and contribute to acne. Aggressive skincare regimens and inappropriate cosmetics may exacerbate acne flare-ups. Inflammation and specific hormones can also impact acne development. Overall, a combination of factors, including genetics, lifestyle, diet, and environmental toxins, can contribute to acne formation.

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What Causes Acne In Chinese Medicine?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acne is viewed as a result of heat and dampness in the lungs, caused by factors such as diet, hormonal imbalances, and skin conditions. TCM focuses on cooling the heat, cleansing the lungs, detoxifying the intestines, and treating the condition externally. Face mapping in TCM connects different areas of the face to internal health issues, emphasizing the interconnectedness between skin health, organs, and energy imbalances.

TCM offers a unique perspective on acne treatment by addressing root imbalances in the body rather than just surface symptoms. Acupuncture and herbal remedies are used to target the underlying causes of acne, such as poor nutrition, hormonal imbalances, and immune system issues. Acne in TCM terms is associated with an accumulation of damp heat in the body, often caused by dietary factors like spicy, oily foods.

Hormonal acne is linked to imbalances in the kidney and liver systems, while jawline acne may indicate kidney imbalances related to reproduction. TCM offers a holistic approach to treating acne, addressing both internal imbalances and external symptoms for long-term relief and wellness.

How To Clean Gut For Acne?

Improving your skin starts with your gut. Remove inflammatory foods and focus on whole, real foods to support gut health. Eating probiotics and prebiotics, prioritizing sleep, and managing stress are key. Daily probiotic supplements can also help maintain a thriving gut flora, essential for absorbing skin-benefiting nutrients. Acne can be linked to poor gut health, so it's essential to focus on probiotics to achieve clear skin. A balanced gut microbiome is crucial for reducing and preventing acne.

Avoid high-glycemic foods and prioritize a clean, fiber-rich diet. Incorporate fermented foods and omega-3 fatty acids for healthy gut bacteria. By improving gut health, you can tackle acne internally. Personalized skincare tips, topical treatments, and working with a dermatologist can also help. Understanding the gut-skin axis is crucial, as gut health influences immune function, digestion, and skin conditions like acne. Addressing gut health can lead to clearer, healthier skin, providing a holistic approach to skincare. By healing your gut, you can improve acne and achieve glowing skin.